These dreamy key lime pie overnight oats are the perfect breakfast for key lime lovers! Creamy, tangy oats are layered with graham cracker crumbs and a hint of lime zest for a sweet-tart flavor that tastes just like the classic dessert. This easy make-ahead recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and will have you excited to wake up in the morning!
Creamy Key Lime Overnight Oats
If you’re craving the flavors of key lime pie but want a healthier, more substantial breakfast, these overnight oats are the answer. The combination of thick, creamy oats, bright lime juice and zest, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs creates a taste and texture that’s truly reminiscent of the beloved pie.
The oats soak up a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt overnight, resulting in a rich, pudding-like consistency. Fresh lime juice and zest add a refreshing tanginess, while the graham cracker crumbs provide a buttery, crust-like element. It’s a breakfast that feels indulgent but is actually packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients to power you through the day.
Ingredients
For this delectable key lime overnight oats recipe, you’ll need:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Fresh lime juice and zest
- Honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Chia seeds (optional)
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Whipped cream or soft cream cheese (optional topping)
Note: Scroll down for the complete recipe with measurements and detailed instructions.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Overnight Oats
This easy breakfast comes together in just a few simple steps:
- In a bowl, mix together the oats, yogurt, milk, lime juice and zest, honey, and chia seeds if using. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the oat mixture to a jar or container with a lid, then refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).
- In the morning, spoon half of the chilled oats into a serving bowl or glass.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the oats.
- Top with the remaining oats, then add a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese if desired.
- Garnish with extra graham cracker crumbs, a lime wedge, and a whole graham cracker.
That’s it – the perfect key lime pie inspired breakfast is ready to enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Overnight Oats
These key lime overnight oats are super simple, but I have a few tips to make them absolutely amazing:
Tip 1: Use Fresh Lime
While bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, using fresh lime juice and zest makes a big difference in terms of bright, authentic flavor.
Tip 2: Adjust Sweetness
Taste the oat mixture before refrigerating and add more honey or maple syrup if you’d like it sweeter.
Tip 3: Achieve the Perfect Texture
If the oats are too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk to reach your ideal consistency.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Lemon Instead of Lime?
Absolutely! Lemon will give you more of a classic lemon meringue pie flavor profile.
How Long Do These Keep?
The prepared overnight oats will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just hold off on adding the toppings until ready to serve.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Feel free to get creative with extra toppings like toasted coconut, chopped macadamia nuts, or a drizzle of key lime curd.
Can I Warm These Up?
While overnight oats are typically enjoyed chilled, you can definitely warm the oats portion before adding the other layers if you prefer a hot breakfast.
These key lime pie overnight oats are the perfect solution when you want a wholesome breakfast that also feels like a treat. The bright citrus flavor and creamy, crunchy texture make this meal truly special. Plus, you can prep it ahead of time for an easy, satisfying start to your day!
Enjoy this delicious guilt-free taste of key lime pie in breakfast form!
Key Lime Pie Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup rolled oats classic or old-fashioned for the best texture
- 2/3 cup milk any kind: dairy, almond, oat, etc.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice Key lime preferred, but regular lime works too
- 1 teaspoon lime zest zest fresh for the best aroma
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds optional, for extra fiber and thickness
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup or another sweetener, to taste
- Graham cracker crumbs for layering and topping
- Whipped cream or soft cream cheese optional, for topping
- Lime wedge and a whole graham cracker for garnish
Instructions
- Mixing the Base: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, oats, and milk, stirring until smooth. Greek yogurt gives these oats a rich and creamy base.
- Adding the Lime: Add the lime juice and zest, noting that Key limes bring a uniquely aromatic flavor, though regular lime works as a substitute. Use fresh lime juice for the best taste, but bottled lime juice can work if needed.
- Optional Chia Seeds: Add chia seeds to thicken the mixture and boost nutrients. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the seeds, which will absorb liquid overnight.
- Sweetening: Add honey or maple syrup to sweeten, adjusting the amount to taste. For a lighter sweetness, use less or skip it entirely.
- Refrigerating: Stir well, then transfer the mixture to a jar or container with a lid. Refrigerate overnight, or at least 4 hours, to allow oats and chia seeds to soften and absorb flavors.
Assembling the Final Dish in the Morning
- First Layer of Oats: Spoon half of the chilled oat mixture into a serving glass or jar to form the base layer.
- Graham Cracker Layer: Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the oats. Traditional graham crackers have a hint of caramel and cinnamon, which enhance the pie flavor. For substitutes, use any mildly sweet whole-grain cookie crumbs with a touch of cinnamon.
- Second Layer of Oats: Add the remaining oats on top, creating a layered, parfait-like effect.
- Finishing Touches: For a classic pie feel, add a dollop of whipped cream or soft cream cheese on top, if desired.
- Garnishing: Sprinkle with extra graham cracker crumbs, garnish with a lime wedge, and place a whole graham cracker on top.
- Optional: Honey or Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of honey or syrup over the top for added sweetness before serving.
Notes
- Citrus Substitution: Lemon juice works if lime isn’t available, though lime provides the signature key lime flavor.
- Extra Crumbs: Adding graham cracker crumbs as a middle layer gives texture and enhances the “pie crust” flavor.
