If you love the luxurious, nutty flavors of Middle Eastern desserts and crave a wholesome breakfast that feels just as indulgent, you are going to adore this Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe. It captures all the warmth and spice of traditional baklava but in a healthy, creamy oat base, perfect for busy mornings or anytime you want a nourishing treat. With a crunchy nut topping infused with cinnamon and a hint of citrus zest, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a breakfast you’ll look forward to every day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe lies in how honestly simple the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy oats to the toasted nuts and sweet maple syrup, every component contributes to a perfect harmony you won’t want to miss.
- Raw pistachios: Provide a vibrant green crunch that echoes the classic baklava taste.
- Almond flour: Adds a subtle nuttiness and soft texture to the topping mixture.
- Walnuts or pecans: Introduce a buttery, earthy depth that complements the sweetness.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the nutty flavors perfectly.
- Cinnamon (optional): Offers a warm spice note, reminiscent of traditional baklava spices.
- Lime zest: Adds a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Maple syrup: Sweetens naturally and binds the nut topping.
- Old fashioned oats: Create a creamy, hearty base that absorbs all the delicious flavors overnight.
- Chia seeds: Bring a nutrient boost and a pleasantly thickened texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and adds a comforting aroma.
- Non-dairy milk (almond, oat, soy, or coconut): Keeps the oats creamy and vegan-friendly.
- Non-dairy yogurt: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the oat mixture.
- Fresh fruits (oranges, banana, berries): Provide natural sweetness and vibrant colors to brighten your breakfast bowl.
How to Make Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baklava Nut Topping
Start by chopping the pistachios, walnuts, and almond flour either with a food processor or a sharp knife until you achieve a coarse, crumbly texture. Combine these nuts in a bowl along with salt, cinnamon if you’re using it, and fresh lime zest for that unexpected zing. Drizzle in the maple syrup and gently mix until everything binds into a slightly sticky, fragrant topping that will add both crunch and sweetness to your oats.
Step 2: Make the Oat Mixture
Heat your chosen non-dairy milk until it’s warm but not boiling. This step helps the oats soak up all the flavors more quickly and evenly. In a separate bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, lime zest, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and non-dairy yogurt. Pour in about three quarters of a cup of the warmed milk and stir everything together until fully combined. Gently fold in roughly one-third of your prepared nut mixture, letting it sit for 5 to 10 minutes so the oats soften and thicken naturally.
Step 3: Adjust Consistency and Assemble
If your oat mixture feels too thick after sitting, add a little more milk, one or two tablespoons at a time, until it reaches your preferred creamy texture. Now, divide the mixture evenly into your jars or serving bowls, topping each with the remaining nut mixture for a delightful crunch. Add your favorite sliced fruits like oranges, bananas, or berries on top to make each serving as visually appealing as it is delicious. Store these jars in the fridge for up to four days, making weekday mornings easier and more luxurious.
How to Serve Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates a dish quite like thoughtful garnishes, and this Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe is no exception. Fresh fruit slices like juicy oranges or sweet bananas add pops of color and freshness. Sprinkle additional chopped pistachios or a dusting of cinnamon on top to intensify the nutty and warm spice notes. For an extra special touch, a few hemp seeds can introduce a subtle nutty texture and boost nutrition.
Side Dishes
Since this is already a rich and satisfying breakfast, pairing your oats with light, refreshing sides works best. Fresh fruit salad with seasonal berries or citrus segments complements the creamy oats beautifully. Herbal teas like chamomile or mint also make a gentle, uplifting companion to the rich flavors of the baklava-inspired oats.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun! Serve your Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe layered in clear glass jars or small dessert bowls so the colors and textures shine through. For a unique twist, prepare a filo crisp by brushing a filo sheet with oil, sprinkling it with brown sugar and cinnamon, then baking until crisp. Break it into shards and serve alongside or on top for a playful crunch. This turns your breakfast into a plated experience that feels just a little more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe is perfect for meal prep. Simply store any leftovers in airtight containers or mason jars in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors mellow and meld beautifully over time, so your oats will taste even better with each passing day.
Freezing
While freezing overnight oats isn’t usually recommended due to changes in texture upon thawing, you can freeze the nut topping separately in a small container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before adding it fresh to your oats, maintaining the perfect crunch and keeping your breakfast experience top-notch.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe, you can eat it cold or warm it gently. To reheat, add a splash of milk and microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds, stirring halfway through. This quick step refreshes the oats without losing their creamy texture or delightful flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dairy milk and yogurt for this recipe?
Absolutely! Although the recipe is designed with non-dairy alternatives to keep it vegan and allergy-friendly, using regular milk and yogurt works just as well if that suits your dietary preferences.
Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, you can swap the nuts in the topping for a mix of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and hemp seeds, and choose nut-free non-dairy milk and yogurt to keep it safe while still delicious.
How many servings does this Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe make?
This recipe yields two generous servings, but it’s easy to scale up depending on how many breakfasts you want to prep ahead.
Can I add protein powder to the oats?
Definitely! Adding plant-based protein powder is a great way to boost the nutritional value, especially if you want a more filling breakfast to jump-start your day.
What fruits work best as toppings?
Anything fresh and juicy like oranges, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, or even pomegranate seeds will enhance the texture and add natural sweetness while balancing the nutty, spiced flavors of the oats.
Final Thoughts
This Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe is such a joy to make and eat, turning everyday breakfast into something truly special. It combines comfort, nutrition, and a hint of decadent indulgence that feels like a treat without any guilt. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a leisurely morning, give this recipe a try — your taste buds and body will thank you!
Print
Baklava Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (optional filo crisp baking time); main recipe requires no cooking
- Total Time: 10 minutes active plus at least 5-10 minutes resting time before refrigeration
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delightfully inspired by the flavors of baklava, this Baklava Overnight Oats recipe combines creamy non-dairy yogurt, old fashioned oats, chia seeds, and a spiced nut topping with pistachios, walnuts, and maple syrup. Enhanced with a touch of lime zest and cinnamon, this nourishing and refreshing plant-based breakfast is perfect for prepping ahead and enjoying a sweet, nutritious start to your day.
Ingredients
Baklava Nut Topping
- 2 tablespoons raw pistachios, or roasted unsalted pistachios
- 1 tablespoon almond flour
- 1 tablespoon walnuts, or pecans or more pistachios
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, optional
- 1/4 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Oats Mixture
- 1 1/4 cup old fashioned oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon or more maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 to 1 cup nondairy milk (almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk)
- 2 tablespoons non-dairy yogurt
To Serve
- Fruits of choice such as oranges, banana, or berries
Instructions
- Prepare the Baklava Nut Mixture: Use a food processor or knife to chop the pistachios, almond flour, walnuts (or substitute pecans/pistachios) into a coarse mixture. Transfer to a bowl, then add salt, lime zest, and cinnamon if using. Mix well, then stir in maple syrup until you achieve a slightly sticky texture.
- Make the Oat Mixture: Heat the non-dairy milk in a saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling. In a bowl, combine oats, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, non-dairy yogurt, and lime zest. Pour in 3/4 cup of the heated milk and mix until combined. Fold in about one-quarter to one-third of the nut mixture and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb the liquid. If mixture thickens too much, add an additional 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk gradually.
- Assemble and Chill: Spoon the oat mixture into mason jars or serving bowls. Top with the remaining baklava nut mixture and add your choice of sliced fruits such as oranges, bananas, or berries. Optionally sprinkle hemp seeds on top. Refrigerate for up to four days before serving.
- Optional Filo Crisp: Brush a sheet of filo pastry with oil, then sprinkle a mixture of 1 teaspoon brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until crisp. Break into pieces and serve as a crunchy side or topping.
Notes
- Recipe yields 2 servings, easily scalable for larger batches.
- For higher protein content, add plant-based protein powder to the oat mixture.
- For soy-free versions, use soy-free non-dairy milk and non-dairy yogurt.
- For nut-free topping, substitute nuts with a mix of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and hemp seeds, and use nut-free non-dairy milk and yogurt.
