Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats are a bright and creamy breakfast treat that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the richness of cheesecake. This no-cook recipe is perfect for busy mornings, offering a delicious balance of sweetness and tang while being packed with nutrients to keep you fueled throughout the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delightfully Creamy: Tastes like dessert but is healthy enough for breakfast.
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep with no cooking required.
- Zesty and Fresh: Bursting with the vibrant flavor of lemon.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber, protein, and wholesome ingredients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make multiple servings ahead of time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Old-fashioned oats
- Milk (almond, cow’s, soy, or oat)
- Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or stevia)
- Vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: crushed graham crackers, fresh berries, or shredded coconut
Directions
- In a jar or bowl, combine the oats, milk, and Greek yogurt. Stir until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the cream cheese mixture to the oat mixture and stir until fully combined.
- Cover the container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours, to allow the oats to soften and the flavors to meld.
- In the morning, stir the oats and adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
- Top with crushed graham crackers, fresh berries, or your favorite toppings before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
Variations
- Vegan: Use dairy-free yogurt and cream cheese, and sweeten with maple syrup or agave.
- High-Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
- Berry Bliss: Layer in fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace oats with chia seeds or hemp hearts.
- Decadent Dessert: Add a swirl of lemon curd or top with whipped cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: These oats are best enjoyed cold but can be warmed gently in the microwave if preferred.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
2. Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, but the cheesecake flavor will be less pronounced. Replace it with more Greek yogurt.
3. Can I use flavored yogurt?
Yes, lemon or vanilla-flavored yogurt works beautifully in this recipe.
4. How do I make the oats thicker?
Reduce the amount of milk or add a teaspoon of chia seeds.
5. Can I add fruit to the mixture before chilling?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries pair wonderfully.
6. How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?
They stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.
7. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
8. What are good toppings for this recipe?
Crushed graham crackers, fresh berries, shredded coconut, or a dollop of whipped cream.
9. Can I add other citrus flavors?
Yes, orange or lime zest can add a refreshing twist.
10. Are these oats gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Conclusion
Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats are a bright, creamy, and indulgent way to start your day. With the tangy flavor of lemon and the richness of cheesecake, this no-cook breakfast is both satisfying and nutritious. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a refreshing, dessert-inspired meal that’s ready when you wake up!
PrintLemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats
These Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats are creamy, tangy, and bursting with refreshing citrus flavor. A perfect combination of healthy oats and indulgent cheesecake-inspired taste, this no-cook breakfast feels like dessert in a jar!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, etc.)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Toppings (Optional):
- Crushed graham crackers or granola
- Fresh berries (e.g., blueberries or raspberries)
- Additional lemon zest
Instructions
- Mix the Base Ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Combine with Oats:
- Stir in the oats and milk until everything is well combined.
- Refrigerate Overnight:
- Transfer the mixture to a mason jar or airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Serve:
- In the morning, give the oats a stir. Add a splash of milk if the consistency is too thick.
- Top with crushed graham crackers, fresh berries, or additional lemon zest for garnish.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free yogurt, plant-based cream cheese, and your favorite non-dairy milk.
- Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder for an extra protein boost.
- Adjust the sweetness based on your preference by adding more honey or maple syrup.