Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats are a refreshing breakfast that tastes like dessert! They mix creamy yogurt with oats, tangy lemon, and a hint of sweetness for a delightful morning treat.
Making them is as easy as 1-2-3. Just mix, chill overnight, and enjoy! I love how they remind me of summer, and they’re perfect for busy mornings when you want something tasty and quick.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for this recipe as they soak up the liquid overnight. If you’re in a pinch, quick oats can work, but be mindful they may get too mushy. Steel-cut oats are not recommended because they need longer cooking times.
Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for its creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, coconut yogurt or almond yogurt are great alternatives that still provide creaminess.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds to the cheesecake flavor. You could substitute it with soft cashew cheese for a dairy-free option, or even ricotta if you want a lighter texture.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon is key for that vibrant flavor! If you don’t have fresh lemons, try bottled lemon juice but use it sparingly, as the flavor may be different.
How Do I Get the Cream Cheese Smoothly Mixed?
Mixing cream cheese can be tricky. To make it easier, soften the cream cheese to room temperature before combining it with wet ingredients. This helps prevent lumps.
- In the mixing bowl, combine cream cheese with a splash of milk or yogurt first. Whisk until smooth.
- Then add in the rest of the ingredients slowly while stirring to ensure everything blends well.
Mixing thoroughly avoids a chunky texture and gives a perfect creamy base, just like a cheesecake!
Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and cheesecake texture)
- ½ cup milk (any type, for soaking oats)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Toppings:
- Fresh raspberries
- Rolled oats or granola
- Whole almonds
- Optional edible flowers (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then just needs to chill in the fridge for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. The overnight soak allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a delicious and easy breakfast to enjoy in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt, cream cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is mixed nicely, and the cream cheese is fully incorporated. You want a smooth and creamy mixture!
2. Prepare for Refrigeration:
Spoon the oat mixture evenly into jars or containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top for toppings later. This is where you’re going to keep your oats while they soak in the fridge!
3. Chill and Soak:
Cover the jars and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4-6 hours. This waiting time lets the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquid and become soft and delicious.
4. Final Touches:
When you’re ready to enjoy your oats, give the mixture a gentle stir to mix everything up again. If you like, you can add a layer of lemon curd or a bit more yogurt on top for extra flavor.
5. Add Toppings:
Top your oats with fresh raspberries, a sprinkle of rolled oats or granola for some crunch, whole almonds for a nutty touch, and any optional edible flowers for a beautiful presentation!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats chilled, and dig in with a spoon. These are perfect for breakfast or a refreshing snack!
Enjoy your creamy, zesty start to the day with these delightful overnight oats!
Can I Substitute Almond Milk for Regular Milk?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk in place of regular milk. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety if you want to control the sweetness.
How Long Do Leftover Overnight Oats Last?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are in an airtight container. The texture may thicken a bit, so you can stir in a splash of milk before eating if needed.
Can I Use Other Fruits as Toppings?
Definitely! While raspberries are lovely, you can also top your oats with strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas. Just choose your favorite fruits to customize your dish!
What If I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
If you don’t have chia seeds, you can omit them or use flaxseeds instead. They add similar thickening properties and nutritional benefits.
