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These Key Lime Pie Overnight Oats deliver all the tangy pie flavors in a nourishing breakfast. With creamy protein-packed oats and zingy lime, you get a high-protein and gluten-free treat that is easy to prep for busy mornings. This jar has become my happy shortcut to waking up excited for breakfast.
I started making these on hot summer nights when I craved something cool and bright but still wanted something hearty to start my day. My kids even eat these as a healthy dessert.
Ingredients
- Certified gluten free oats: give a chewy base and keep the recipe celiac safe. Always check for certification on the label for guaranteed gluten free status
- Almond milk: offers creamy texture without dairy. Select unsweetened to control sugar
- Chia seeds: help thicken the oats and add fiber plus healthy fats
- Vanilla protein powder: adds sweetness and protein. Use a high qualiy powder with minimal sugar for best results
- Lime juice: makes the oats tangy and fresh. Look for limes that feel heavy for their size which means more juice
- Maple syrup or honey: sweetens the oats naturally. Taste and use more or less as you prefer
- Lime zest: delivers that signature key lime pie aroma and color. Always zest before juicing to avoid squishing the fruit
- Gluten free graham wafer: mimics pie crust and adds a delightful crunch. Opt for one that is crisp and not stale
- Greek yogurt: brings extra protein plus a little tang. Use plain or vanilla for more flavor options
- White chocolate chips: melt to create a pie-like ganache topping. Look for real cocoa butter in the ingredients
- Cream cheese: gives the oat topping that cheesecake-like richness. Let it soften for easy mixing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- Combine certified gluten free oats almond milk chia seeds protein powder lime juice maple syrup and lime zest in a large bowl or jar. Stir extremely well making sure all the protein powder dissolves so there are no pockets of powder. This helps the oats hydrate fully. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour for the chia to thicken the mixture
- Prepare the Ganache:
- In a microwave safe bowl warm white chocolate chips in thirty second bursts until just melted and glossy. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly before stirring in softened cream cheese and greek yogurt. Whisk vigorously until smooth and creamy with no visible lumps
- Layer and Set:
- Remove the chilled oat mixture from the fridge. Break your gluten free graham wafer into chunky bits. Begin layering the oats with graham pieces in your serving container so every bite has some crunch. Spoon or pour your white chocolate cream cheese ganache over the layers. Place the container back in the refrigerator overnight so flavors meld and textures set
- Top and Serve:
- In the morning add a fresh sprinkle of graham wafer pieces extra lime zest and a slice of lime if you like the look. The oats are now creamy citrusy and ready to eat or take on the go
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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the aroma you get when zesting fresh limes over the jar nothing wakes you up faster than that citrus burst. My daughter always sneaks a few graham wafer pieces off the top before I even put the lid on our jars.
Storage Tips
Keep the overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you love added crunch store extra graham wafer bits separately and sprinkle them on right before you eat. The ganache holds up well but will be softest the first two days.
Ingredient Substitutions
Any milk works if you do not have almond milk just use oat milk soy milk or your favorite dairy alternative. You can swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper flavor. If you prefer a non-dairy yogurt plain coconut yogurt tastes great too. Vanilla protein powder works well but matcha or plain unsweetened can be used if you want to play with flavors.
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Serving Suggestions
Enjoy the oats cold right from the fridge or let them sit out at room temperature for fifteen minutes. For more crunch add chopped roasted nuts or sunflower seeds on top. These are fun to take on hikes or to work. For dessert try a dollop of whipped coconut cream.
Cultural Spot
Overnight oats may seem trendy but people have prepped soaked oats for centuries. This twist with key lime pie inspiration is a nod to the classic Florida dessert which was invented in the late 1800s on the Florida Keys. I love giving an old school breakfast a tropical bakery spin.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute almond milk with another type of milk?
Absolutely. You can use any plant-based or dairy milk of your choice for a similar creamy consistency.
- → Is it necessary to use protein powder?
No, protein powder is optional. Omit or replace with extra Greek yogurt if you prefer.
- → How long do the oats need to set?
Oats should set for at least 1 hour, but overnight chilling mellows the flavors for best results.
- → Are there other sweeteners I can use besides maple syrup or honey?
Yes, agave or your preferred sweetener will work. Adjust to taste for desired sweetness.
- → Can I prepare this breakfast in advance?
Yes, prep the night before for a grab-and-go breakfast. Toppings can be added just before serving.
- → How do I achieve a smooth, creamy chocolate topping?
Microwave white chocolate, blend with room-temperature cream cheese and yogurt, whisk well, and smooth over oats.