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Introduction
The origins of carrot cake can be traced back to the Middle Ages when sugars and sweeteners were scarce and expensive, leading resourceful bakers to sweeten cakes with nutritious root vegetables like carrots. Over time, this humble cake evolved into a beloved dessert, often associated with spring celebrations and gatherings. These overnight oats pay homage to the classic treat while offering a convenient and nourishing twist perfect for starting your day on a delightfully indulgent note.
Ingredients
• 1 cup (90g) old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
• 1/2 cup (60g) finely grated carrots
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts, plus more for topping
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons (30g) cream cheese, softened (for the frosting)
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) unsweetened plant-based milk (for the frosting)
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) maple syrup or powdered sugar (for the frosting)
Step 1:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, plant-based milk, grated carrots, chopped walnuts, maple syrup or honey, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2:
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 6 hours.
Step 3:
For the cream cheese frosting, in a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon of plant-based milk, and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or powdered sugar. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Step 4:
Remove the overnight oats from the refrigerator and divide them into two portions. Top each portion with a dollop of the cream cheese frosting and additional chopped walnuts (if desired).
Q: Can I use quick oats or steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
A: While it's best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe, you can substitute quick oats if that's what you have on hand. However, the texture may be slightly different. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they have a different cooking time and consistency.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: This recipe is already dairy-free when using plant-based milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting. If you want to make it entirely vegan, simply use a plant-based cream cheese substitute.
Q: Can I omit the nuts if I have a nut allergy?
A: Yes, you can easily omit the walnuts or substitute them with a different crunchy topping, such as granola or toasted coconut flakes, to accommodate nut allergies.
• For the oats, use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats or steel-cut oats may yield different results.
• You can substitute the plant-based milk with regular dairy milk if desired.
• For a nut-free option, replace the walnuts with a different crunchy topping, such as granola or toasted coconut flakes.
• Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to suit your desired level of sweetness.
• The cream cheese frosting can be made vegan by using a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
• This recipe is dairy-free when using plant-based milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Serve the carrot cake overnight oats chilled or at room temperature, garnished with the cream cheese frosting and chopped walnuts.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Prepare the overnight oats mixture the night before for an easy grab-and-go breakfast the next morning.
- For a thicker consistency, use slightly less plant-based milk or add an extra tablespoon or two of rolled oats.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the amount of maple syrup or honey to your desired level.
- For an extra boost of protein and fiber, add a tablespoon or two of chia seeds or ground flaxseed to the overnight oats mixture.
For a more indulgent twist, you can substitute the cream cheese frosting with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
These carrot cake overnight oats pair well with a cup of hot coffee or tea for breakfast, or a glass of fresh orange juice for a refreshing and nutritious start to the day.
This recipe can be enjoyed year-round, but it may be particularly appealing in the spring and fall when carrots are in peak season.
This recipe contains tree nuts (walnuts) and dairy (cream cheese). It can be made nut-free by omitting the walnuts and dairy-free by using plant-based milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
