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Creamy Maple Brown Sugar Overnight Oats Recipe with Candied Pecans

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A cozy and satisfying overnight oats recipe featuring creamy oats sweetened with maple syrup and brown sugar, topped with crunchy candied pecans. Perfect for a quick, delicious breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (90g) rolled oats (old-fashioned)
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or plant-based milk (almond, oat, etc.)
  • ½ cup (120g) plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • About ¼ cup (30g) candied pecans, roughly chopped
  • For candied pecans:
  • 1 cup (120g) pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt and cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the candied pecans: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add 2 tablespoons brown sugar and stir until it starts bubbling gently.
  2. Add 1 cup of pecan halves, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon if using. Stir continuously to coat the pecans evenly. After about 3–4 minutes, the pecans should be glossy and sticky. Spread them on parchment paper to cool. Once cooled, roughly chop and set aside.
  3. Mix the oats base: In your mixing bowl or mason jar, combine 1 cup (90g) rolled oats, 1 cup (240ml) milk, and ½ cup (120g) Greek yogurt. Stir until smooth.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all flavors.
  5. Cover the mixture and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the oats to absorb the liquid fully and soften without cooking.
  6. In the morning, give the oats a gentle stir. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the texture.
  7. Top with a generous handful of your homemade candied pecans for a sweet, crunchy contrast.
  8. Optional: Add fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries to brighten the bowl.

Notes

Do not walk away when making candied pecans as sugar can burn quickly; stir constantly. Add candied pecans just before serving to keep them crunchy. If oats are too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk. Store oats and pecans separately for best texture. Can be made vegan by using plant-based milk and yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight oats, maple syrup, brown sugar, candied pecans, easy breakfast, healthy breakfast, creamy oats, make ahead breakfast