Dessert

Carrot Cake Overnight Oats (Protein Recipe) Recipe

Byrami Hayes January 22, 2026January 22, 2026

Introduction

These carrot cake overnight oats are like having dessert for breakfast, but wholesome and satisfying. Packed with fiber, protein, and cozy spices, they deliver all the comforting flavors of carrot cake with none of the guilt.

A small clear glass container holds a layered dessert with two main layers: a thick, brown, textured base filled with small nuts and dark bits, topped by a smooth, white cream layer. The cream layer is decorated with scattered small orange carrot shreds and chopped pecans. A spoon dips into the dessert, making a swirl in the middle, exposing the brown base below. The container rests on a white marbled surface, with a few white chocolate chips and raisins scattered around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup certified gluten free oats
1/2 cup almond milk
1 tsp chia seeds
1/2 scoop vanilla protein powder
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp nutmeg
2 tbsp shredded carrots
1 tbsp pecans, chopped
1 tbsp raisins
1/3 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp white chocolate chips
1.5 tbsp cream cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the oats, almond milk, chia seeds, vanilla protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, shredded carrots, pecans, and raisins in a bowl or jar. Stir well to mix and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: In a small bowl, microwave the white chocolate chips until melted. Stir in the Greek yogurt and room temperature cream cheese, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
Step 3: Remove the oats from the refrigerator and pour the cream cheese ganache evenly over the top. Return to the fridge overnight to let it set.
Step 4: In the morning, top with extra shredded carrots and pecan pieces for added texture and freshness. Enjoy your grab-and-go carrot cake overnight oats!

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt and cream cheese with coconut yogurt and vegan cream cheese.
Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred.
Add a pinch of ground ginger for an extra warming spice note.
Use maple syrup or honey if you want a sweeter oat base before refrigerating.

Storage

Store the overnight oats covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since they’re already chilled, no reheating is necessary—just give them a good stir before eating. If desired, bring to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

How to Serve

A close-up view shows a spoon holding a layered oatmeal dish with a thick base layer that looks soft and grainy, filled with brown oats and bits of pecans. On top of this base is a creamy white layer, likely yogurt or cream, sprinkled with bright orange shredded carrot bits and small chunks of pecan nuts, adding texture and color. Behind the spoon is a clear rectangular glass baking dish filled with the same layered oatmeal mix, cream, and carrot pieces, sitting on a white marbled surface. Small white pieces are scattered near the spoon in the foreground. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these oats without protein powder?

Yes, you can omit the protein powder if you prefer. Just keep in mind the oats will be less protein-rich, but the other ingredients still provide plenty of flavor and nutrition.

What type of oats should I use?

Certified gluten free rolled oats work best for texture and absorption. Instant oats can become too mushy, and steel-cut oats require much longer soaking or cooking.