Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe With Hidden Vegetables

Name: Spiced Sweet Potato Pie Overnight Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed); 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk; 1/4 cup mashed roasted sweet potato; 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Optional toppings: chopped pecans, coconut yogurt, cinnamon stick

Get your daily dose of veggies in a tasty breakfast with this easy carrot cake overnight oats recipe, perfect for meal prep

By Callie Renner Last updated May 29, 2025

What if your breakfast could taste like dessert—but secretly fuel your day with veggies? We’ve cracked the code for mornings that demand both speed and satisfaction. This isn’t just another grab-and-go meal. It’s a cozy, spiced twist on a classic flavor, designed to make you feel like you’re indulging while staying on track.

Inspired by Caitlin Shoemaker’s genius, this creamy blend balances sweetness and nourishment. Grated vegetables melt into the mix, adding vitamins without a hint of “health food” vibes. Perfect for gluten-free or vegan lifestyles, it adapts to your pantry staples. Prep it in minutes tonight, and wake up to a jar of spiced goodness that keeps you full till lunch.

Breakfast Benefits

Mornings don’t have to mean rushed decisions or bland meals. Let me show you how a jar can transform your breakfast routine—no cooking required. This approach isn’t just quick; it’s designed to keep you energized without the mid-morning crash.

Why This Method Wins for Busy Lives

Imagine opening your fridge to a ready-made meal that tastes like it took hours. The magic lies in texture: creamy yogurt and milk soften rolled grains overnight, creating a pudding-like consistency. Customize it with cinnamon, maple syrup, or nut butter—it adapts to whatever you’re craving.

Sneaky Nutrition You’ll Actually Enjoy

Here’s my favorite hack: finely grated veggies blend seamlessly into the mix. They add fiber and vitamins while letting the cozy spices shine. I’ve seen even picky eaters devour this without noticing the extra goodness.

Combining dairy (or plant-based alternatives) with whole grains balances protein and carbs. Meal prep enthusiasts love how these jars stay fresh for days—perfect for chaotic weeks. One reader told me, “It’s like having a personal chef who knows I hate mornings.”

Try it tonight. Tomorrow, you’ll understand why this has become my go-to solution for stress-free mornings.

Ingredients & Hidden Veggie Power

Great meals start with smart choices—and this blend proves nutrition doesn’t mean compromise. Let’s unpack what makes these jars work so hard while you sleep.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Oats

Texture is everything here. Combining quick and rolled oats creates a balance—creamy meets chewy. Chia seeds thicken the mix naturally, while dairy or almond milk keeps it spoonable.

For sweetness without guilt, pure maple syrup blends with shredded carrots. Yes, vegetables! They dissolve into the oats, adding moisture and beta-carotene. A dash of cinnamon and vanilla mimics classic dessert flavors—no one will guess it’s breakfast.

“The right ratio of wet to dry ingredients ensures your jar isn’t soup or cement,” notes Caitlin Shoemaker. Stick to 1:1 liquid to oats for ideal consistency.

Health Benefits of Carrots and Spices

Those tiny orange shreds? Powerhouses. Carrots deliver vitamin A for immunity and eye health. Paired with anti-inflammatory cinnamon, this combo stabilizes blood sugar between meals.

Gluten-free options work beautifully here—just swap regular oats for certified varieties. Top with pumpkin seeds for crunch and magnesium. Want more ideas? Explore five ways to tweak your base recipe.

Pro tip: Grate carrots finely. Larger pieces stay crunchy, which might tip off veggie skeptics. Mini ones melt right in—trust me, I’ve tested this on my toughest critic (my 7-year-old).

carrot cake overnight oats recipe

Ever crave dessert for breakfast but need something that sticks to your ribs? Let’s build your new morning ritual. Below, you’ll find the exact blueprint for a jar that tastes like a spiced treat but fuels you like a champ.

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Rolled oats	½ cup	Gluten-free if needed
Unsweetened almond milk	¾ cup	Or dairy milk
Greek yogurt	¼ cup	Dairy or plant-based
Finely grated carrots	⅓ cup	Pack tightly
Pure maple syrup	1 tbsp	Adjust to taste

Start by whisking milk, yogurt, and syrup in a bowl. This creates a smooth base that clings to every oat. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla—these spices mimic that classic bakery aroma.

Next, fold in rolled oats and carrots. Stir gently but thoroughly. I’ve found clockwise motions work best to avoid clumping. Let it sit for 2 minutes so the chia seeds start thickening.

“Layer wet and dry ingredients separately if prepping multiple jars. It prevents sogginess and lets flavors meld perfectly overnight.”

Pour the mix into a 12-ounce jar. The magic happens in the fridge: oats soften, carrots sweeten, and spices bloom. By morning, you’ll swear it’s pudding. Top with walnuts or raisins for that final bakery-style touch.

This isn’t just stirred grains in a cup. It’s a layered, thoughtful blend where every bite delivers cozy sweetness and hidden nourishment. Your spoon will thank you.

Preparation in Consecutive Steps

Transform your mornings with a jar that does all the work while you sleep. Let’s walk through the simple stages—no fancy tools needed. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll nail the texture every time.

Mixing the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large bowl. Whisk together almond milk, yogurt, and maple syrup for 1 minute—this creates a silky base. Add rolled oats and chia seeds, stirring until fully coated. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes. This waiting time lets the oats begin absorbing liquid, preventing a gritty texture.

Step	Time	Key Tip
Combine liquids	1 minute	Whisk vigorously
Mix dry ingredients	2 minutes	No clumps allowed
Rest mixture	5 minutes	Set a timer

Incorporating Vegetables, Spices, and Nuts

Fold in finely shredded veggies next. Use a spatula to gently distribute them—no heavy stirring. Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. For crunch, add chopped pecans now or layer them fresh in the morning.

Let the jar chill overnight. If you’re short on time, 4 hours works, but 8 hours is ideal. Before eating, give it one final stir. This ensures spices blend evenly and every spoonful gets that cozy sweetness.

“Chopped pecans stay crispier when added just before serving. Keep them separate if prepping jars ahead.”

Total hands-on time? Under 10 minutes. The rest happens while you recharge. You’ll love how the flavors deepen overnight—like magic in your fridge.

Overnight Oats Hacks That Stay Creamy All Week

Your future self will thank you for these jar hacks. With a few smart tricks, you can enjoy creamy texture and fresh flavors all week—no daily effort required.

Ensuring the Perfect Overnight Consistency

Batch-prepping? Use wide-mouth jars for easy mixing. I layer dry ingredients first—oats, chia, spices—then pour milk and yogurt over them. This keeps grains from getting soggy if stored for days. Seal tightly; airtight containers prevent fridge odors and maintain moisture balance.

Soak for at least 4 hours. Shorter times leave oats chewy, but 8 hours creates that pudding-like feel. For thicker results, reduce milk by 1 tablespoon. Need it spoonable? Add an extra splash before sealing.

“Always leave ½ inch of space at the jar’s top,” advises Caitlin Shoemaker. “It lets ingredients expand without bursting lids.”

Stored properly, these jars stay fresh 5 days. Stir well before eating—natural separation is normal. Toppings like nuts or coconut? Add them morning-of to keep crunch intact. Your breakfast stays vibrant, even on Friday.

Creative Variations and Topping Ideas

Breakfast gets exciting when you play with textures and tastes. Let’s turn your jar into a canvas—swap ingredients or layer toppings to match your mood or dietary needs. Here’s how to keep mornings fresh without extra work.

Enhancing Flavor with Toppings

Think beyond cinnamon. A dollop of whipped cream cheese adds tangy richness—like frosting on a spiced muffin. For crunch, try toasted coconut flakes or crushed walnuts. Fresh berries brighten earthy flavors, while raisins boost fiber naturally.

Want a protein punch? Mix in extra chia seeds or hemp hearts. Drizzle with almond butter for creaminess. One reader told me, “Adding lemon zest transformed it into springtime breakfast.”

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

Dairy-free? Swap Greek yogurt for coconut-based alternatives. Use agave instead of maple syrup to cut sugar. Nut allergies? Sunflower seed butter works beautifully.

Ingredient	Swap	Effect
Dairy yogurt	Coconut yogurt	Creamier texture
Maple syrup	Date paste	Lower glycemic index
Pecans	Roasted chickpeas	Savory crunch

“Your jar should reflect your cravings,” says Caitlin Shoemaker. “Sweet, salty, or spicy—play until it feels like dessert that loves you back.”

Need more inspiration? Our beginners guide breaks down flavor pairings. Remember: small tweaks create big joy. Your spoon deserves the adventure.

Integrating This Recipe into a Healthy Lifestyle

Fueling your day starts long before your first bite. This jar isn’t just convenient—it’s a strategic ally for balanced eating. Let’s explore how its nutrients work together to keep you energized without derailing your goals.

Nutritional Considerations for Busy Mornings

One serving packs 320 calories with 14g of protein and 8g of fiber. The combo slows digestion, preventing energy crashes. Healthy fats from nuts or chia seeds add staying power—I’ve found this keeps me satisfied 4+ hours.

Nutrient	Amount	Role
Protein	14g	Muscle repair, fullness
Fiber	8g	Digestive health
Healthy fats	10g	Brain function
Complex carbs	45g	Sustained energy

Protein sources like yogurt or pea milk curb cravings. A teaspoon of cinnamon boosts flavor without sugar. Need more fat? Stir in almond butter—it adds creaminess and omega-3s.

This meal’s magic lies in balance. Whole grains provide steady fuel, while spices like ginger support metabolism. For a lower-sugar version, reduce syrup and add mashed banana.

“Consistent meal prep builds habits that outlast motivation. Start small—one jar can shift your whole week.”

Prepping these spiced jars simplifies mornings. You’ll grab nutrition that feels indulgent, not obligatory. That’s how lasting wellness begins—one thoughtful bite at a time.

Your morning routine just found its new hero. This creamy, spiced blend proves breakfast can feel indulgent while packing serious nutrition. With just a jar, some pantry staples, and minutes of prep, you’ll wake to a meal that fuels your day without draining your energy.

I love how versatile this base becomes. Swap maple syrup for mashed banana, or try coconut milk for extra richness. Those shredded veggies? They disappear into the mix while boosting vitamins—no compromising on flavor. Top it with toasted walnuts or a dollop of yogurt for that bakery-style finish.

Need more inspiration? Our friends at The Skinny Fork shared a baked version that’s equally delicious. Or explore five-minute variations to keep your mornings fresh. Share your twists in the comments—we’re all here to learn from each other’s kitchen wins.

One simple cup holds everything you need: whole grains, plant-powered goodness, and flavors that make mornings something to savor. Here’s to starting your day right—with zero stress and maximum joy.

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Spiced Sweet Potato Pie Overnight Oats

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