Overnight Oats with Candied Pecans (Print Version)

Soaked oats layered with caramelized pecans and a drizzle of pure maple syrup.

# What You'll Need:

→ Oats Base

01 - 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1 cup milk, dairy or plant-based
03 - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
04 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds
05 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
06 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt

→ Candied Pecans

08 - 1/2 cup pecan halves
09 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
10 - 1 tablespoon water
11 - 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
12 - Pinch of cinnamon
13 - Pinch of salt

→ Toppings

14 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup for drizzling
15 - Fresh fruit such as sliced banana or berries, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Combine oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir thoroughly until well combined. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.
02 - Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. In a skillet over medium heat, combine sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, and salt. Stir constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture reaches a bubbling state.
03 - Add pecan halves to the sugar mixture and stir continuously to coat evenly. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until pecans are golden and fully caramelized.
04 - Transfer candied pecans to the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Allow to cool completely at room temperature until hardened.
05 - Stir the refrigerated oat mixture to achieve desired consistency. Divide between two bowls or jars. Crown with candied pecans, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh fruit if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Zero morning cooking means you can actually sit down and enjoy breakfast instead of eating standing up at the counter.
  • The contrast between creamy oats and crunchy candied pecans is pure comfort in a bowl.
  • It tastes indulgent but sneaks in protein, fiber, and nutrients that keep you satisfied through lunch.
02 -
  • Don't skip the parchment paper when cooling the candied pecans—they will absolutely stick to bare metal and you'll spend ten minutes scraping and cursing.
  • If your oats seem too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk to loosen them, but don't add water because it waters down the flavor.
03 -
  • Make the candied pecans in a larger batch on Sunday and you'll have a crunchy topping ready for yogurt, salads, or just eating straight from the jar when nobody's looking.
  • If your pecans soften after a day or two, spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 300-degree oven for five minutes to restore the crunch.
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