Sometimes, I find myself craving birthday cake first thing in the morning; the fluffy sweetness and colorful sprinkles always bring a smile to my face. But let’s be real, who has time to bake a cake before work or school? That’s where my Birthday Cake Overnight Oats come to the rescue. They’re a super easy, make-ahead breakfast that tastes like you’re eating dessert, but with a healthy twist. These Birthday Cake Overnight Oats require at least 4 hours to chill, but trust me, they are worth the wait. Get ready for a delicious, iron-rich breakfast that feels like a celebration in a jar!
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
- Quick Prep Time: I know mornings can be hectic, which is why I love this recipe. It takes just minutes to stir everything together the night before.
- Perfect for Meal Prepping: Make a big batch on Sunday, and you’ll have a grab-and-go breakfast ready for the entire week.
- Customizable with Different Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings. I love fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Healthy and Delicious: These oats are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, all while tasting like a slice of birthday cake.
What Are Birthday Cake Overnight Oats?
If you’re new to overnight oats, let me tell you, they’re a total game-changer. Essentially, they’re a no-cook method of preparing oatmeal. I simply combine rolled oats with liquid and other goodies, then let it sit in the fridge overnight. The oats absorb the liquid and soften, creating a creamy, dreamy breakfast that’s ready when you are.
Amazing Birthday Cake Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the gluten-free oats, chia seeds, flaxseed, and salt until combined.
- Add the almond milk, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the bowl. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are well-incorporated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to thicken.
- Remove the oatmeal from the fridge and gently stir in the sprinkles. Transfer the oatmeal to small jars or bowls for serving.
- Top the overnight oats with coconut whipped cream and additional sprinkles, if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Ingredients You’ll Need for Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
Here’s what I use to whip up a batch of Birthday Cake Overnight Oats:
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free old-fashioned oats (or rolled oats): I recommend gluten-free if you have sensitivities, but regular rolled oats work just as well.
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds: These little seeds add a boost of fiber and omega-3s, plus they help thicken the oats.
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed: More fiber and healthy fats. I always use ground flaxseed for better absorption.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or other plant milk): I prefer almond milk for its low-calorie content, but any plant milk will do, even regular dairy milk.
- 2 tablespoons natural creamy almond butter (or cashew butter): Almond butter adds richness and healthy fats. I suggest using a natural, creamy variety for the best texture.
- 2 tablespoons 100% pure maple syrup: For a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A must for that classic birthday cake flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract (or butter extract): This is the secret ingredient that really makes it taste like birthday cake. If you don’t have almond extract, butter extract works great too.
- 3 tablespoons sprinkles (I use rainbow Jimmies): Because what’s birthday cake without sprinkles? I love using rainbow Jimmies for that classic look.
- Coconut whipped cream: For topping; I always use this.
- Sprinkles: Because you can never have enough sprinkles, I say.
- Fresh berries: For topping!
How to Make Birthday Cake Overnight Oats: Step-by-Step
Here’s how I make these easy oats:
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the gluten-free oats, chia seeds, flaxseed, and salt until combined.
- Add the almond milk, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the bowl. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are well-incorporated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to thicken.
- Remove the oatmeal from the fridge and gently stir in the sprinkles. Transfer the oatmeal to small jars or bowls for serving.
- Top the overnight oats with coconut whipped cream and additional sprinkles, if desired. Enjoy!
Clara’s Expert Tips for the Best Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
- Don’t skip the chilling time: This is crucial for the oats to properly soften and absorb the liquid. I recommend at least 4 hours, but overnight is best.
- Stir well: Make sure all the ingredients are thoroughly combined, especially the almond butter, to avoid clumps.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, add a bit more maple syrup.
- Prevent sprinkles from bleeding: To prevent the sprinkles from bleeding their color, gently fold them in right before serving.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Oats too thick: If your oats are too thick, simply add a splash of almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Oats too thin: If your oats are too thin, add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed, and let them sit for another 30 minutes to thicken.
- Sprinkles bleeding: To avoid this, gently fold in the sprinkles just before serving.
- Not enough birthday cake flavor: If you want a stronger birthday cake flavor, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of almond or butter extract.
Birthday Cake Overnight Oats: Variations and Substitutions
| Variation | Substitution | Effect on Taste/Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy-Free | Use plant-based milk and coconut whipped cream | Creamy and delicious, without any dairy. |
| Vegan | Ensure maple syrup is 100% pure | Fully plant-based and cruelty-free. |
| Nut-Free | Use sunflower seed butter (sunbutter) | Safe for nut allergies, with a slightly different, but still delicious, nutty flavor. |
| Low-Sugar | Use a sugar-free maple syrup alternative | Reduces the sugar content, but may slightly alter the taste. |
| High-Fiber | Add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds | Increases fiber content, making the oats even more filling. |
| Protein Boost | Add a scoop of protein powder | Adds a protein boost, helping you stay fuller longer. |
Choosing the Best Oats for Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
I prefer using old-fashioned rolled oats for overnight oats. They have a great texture and absorb the liquid nicely without becoming mushy. Quick oats can also work, but they tend to be softer. Steel-cut oats are not recommended for overnight oats, as they require longer cooking times and won’t soften properly in the fridge.
Sprinkles 101: Which Ones to Use (and Which to Avoid!)
Sprinkles can make or break your birthday cake overnight oats. I recommend using Jimmies (the long, thin sprinkles) as they hold their color well and don’t bleed as much as other types. Avoid using nonpareils (the tiny ball sprinkles) as they tend to bleed and can make your oats look muddy. I personally love the brand “Sweet Tooth Fairy” sprinkles because they have great colors and flavors.
Protein Power: Adding Protein to Your Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
If I want to add a protein boost to my oats, I’ll stir in a scoop of protein powder. I recommend using a vanilla or unflavored protein powder, so it doesn’t clash with the birthday cake flavor. Whey protein and plant-based protein both work well, just be sure to adjust the liquid if needed to maintain the right consistency. I usually add about 1 scoop (around 20-30 grams) of protein powder per serving.
Best Jars and Toppings for Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
I love using mason jars or Weck jars for storing and serving my overnight oats. They’re cute, reusable, and perfect for meal prepping. For sprinkles, I usually buy mine from Amazon or Target. For toppings, I recommend coconut whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt.
How to Store Birthday Cake Overnight Oats
My Birthday Cake Overnight Oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I like to make a big batch on Sunday, so I have breakfast ready for the entire week!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this be made ahead of time for more than 5 days?
I don’t recommend storing the oats for more than 5 days, as the texture may start to deteriorate.
Can I use different extracts, and if so, what would work well?
Absolutely! I love experimenting with different extracts. Butter extract, cake batter extract, or even a touch of lemon extract would all be delicious in these oats.
What brands of sprinkles do you recommend?
I’m a big fan of Sweet Tooth Fairy sprinkles for their vibrant colors and fun shapes.
Are overnight oats healthy?
Yes, overnight oats can be a very healthy breakfast option! They’re packed with fiber, which helps keep you full and regulates blood sugar levels. They also contain protein and healthy fats, which are essential for overall health.
More Delicious Breakfast Recipes
If you love this recipe, be sure to check out these other breakfast ideas on Cooking Inspired:
Birthday Cake Overnight Oats Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 0 minutes Calories: 350 (estimated)
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy these Birthday Cake Overnight Oats as much as I do. They’re the perfect way to start your day with a little bit of sweetness and a whole lot of fun. Now it’s your turn! I want to know, what are your favorite toppings to add to overnight oats? Leave a comment below and let me know! I love hearing from you all, and I can’t wait to see your creations.
