If you’ve ever wished you could have cake for breakfast without the sugar crash, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Birthday Cake Overnight Oats. This recipe captures the playful magic of a sprinkle-studded birthday cake in a wholesome, creamy jar you can prep the night before. Every spoonful is a blend of nostalgia and nutrition, making it a perfect morning treat whether it’s your special day or just a regular Tuesday you want to brighten up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for birthday cake flavor)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Add-ins
- 1 tablespoon sprinkles (plus more for topping)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla or white chocolate protein powder (optional)
How to Make Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Grab a jar or any container with a lid and add your rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, almond extract if you’re using it, and chia seeds. Stir it all together until everything is well combined and the oats are evenly coated. This is the foundation for your “cake batter”—and the aroma alone is irresistible!
Step 2: Add the Fun Stuff
Now for the part that makes these oats truly “birthday cake” worthy! Gently fold in your sprinkles and protein powder if you’re using it. Stir carefully so the sprinkles don’t bleed too much color, but don’t worry if they do—it just adds to the magic. The protein powder will blend right in, contributing a little extra creaminess and flavor.
Step 3: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld
Seal your jar and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least four hours. This is when the oats soften, the chia seeds work their thickening magic, and all the flavors meld together into a creamy, dreamy breakfast treat. The waiting is the hardest part, but it’s worth it!
Step 4: Top and Serve
In the morning, give your Birthday Cake Overnight Oats a good stir. Top with extra sprinkles, a dollop of yogurt, or even a swirl of whipped topping if you’re feeling festive. Grab a spoon and dig in while the oats are cold, creamy, and flecked with color. It’s like starting your day with a celebration!
How to Serve Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
Garnishes
Go wild with toppings! More sprinkles are a must for that birthday vibe, but you can also add fresh berries, a drizzle of nut butter, or even a cherry on top for full-on cake nostalgia. A swirl of coconut whipped cream is especially delightful if you want to lean into dessert-for-breakfast territory.
Side Dishes
Although these oats are a meal on their own, they pair beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a simple smoothie. If you’re making breakfast for a crowd, a platter of sliced bananas, strawberries, or melon is a colorful match for your sprinkle-filled jar.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special mornings, serve the oats in parfait glasses layered with extra yogurt and fruit between the oat layers. Mason jars are always charming, or transform your oats into mini “birthday cake” cups with a candle on top! Kids (and kids at heart) will love these cheerful touches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Birthday Cake Overnight Oats keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and keep the sprinkles from getting too soft.
Freezing
Technically, you can freeze overnight oats, but the texture may change a bit when thawed. If you do freeze them, use freezer-safe containers and thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Just add fresh sprinkles before serving to keep things vibrant!
Reheating
These oats are designed to be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. If you prefer them a little warmer, give them a quick zap in the microwave (without the sprinkles) for 20-30 seconds, then add your toppings afterward for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture will be much softer and less chewy. Rolled oats hold up better overnight and give you that classic, hearty consistency we love in Birthday Cake Overnight Oats.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use your favorite plant-based milk and a non-dairy yogurt. Maple syrup is already vegan, and most sprinkles are too, but just check the labels to make sure.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
No problem! The vanilla alone does a great job of making the oats taste like cake, but almond extract definitely adds that nostalgic bakery note. If you have it, use it—if not, your oats will still be delicious.
Can I add fruit to these oats?
Definitely! Chopped strawberries or mashed banana add natural sweetness and a pop of fresh flavor. Just fold them in before chilling, or add as a topping in the morning.
How long can I store Birthday Cake Overnight Oats?
For best flavor and texture, enjoy your oats within 2-3 days of preparation. After that, the oats may become too soft and the sprinkles can start to bleed their color, but the oats will still be safe to eat if properly refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s as fun as it is nourishing, Birthday Cake Overnight Oats are your ticket to morning joy. They’re quick to prep, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Give them a try and bring a little celebration to your everyday routine—you might just make every morning feel like your birthday!
Print
Birthday Cake Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the creamy, fun, and easy Birthday Cake Overnight Oats, a make-ahead breakfast that combines the flavors of birthday cake with wholesome ingredients. This nutritious and protein-packed recipe is perfect for busy mornings and customizable to suit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for birthday cake flavor)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Add-ins
- 1 tablespoon sprinkles (plus more for topping)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla or white chocolate protein powder (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a jar or container with a lid, mix together the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond extract, and chia seeds until well combined.
- Add Sprinkles and Protein: Stir in the sprinkles and protein powder if using, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Refrigerate: Cover the container and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to let the oats soften and the mixture thicken.
- Serve: In the morning, give the oats a good stir and top with additional sprinkles or a dollop of yogurt or whipped topping if desired. Serve cold and enjoy.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and yogurt with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut yogurt.
- Add mashed banana or chopped strawberries to boost natural sweetness and flavor.
- Best enjoyed within 2–3 days of preparation for optimal freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
