Overnight Oats Candied Pecans

Featured in: Classic American Desserts

This dish features creamy oats soaked overnight with milk, yogurt, chia seeds, and vanilla for a soft texture. Sweet candied pecans are prepared by cooking pecans in a cinnamon-scented sugar syrup until crisp and caramelized. Topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup and optional fresh fruit, it offers a balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. Ideal for easy mornings, it combines wholesome ingredients and simple steps for a nourishing start to your day.

Updated on Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:03:42 GMT
A jar of creamy overnight oats with crunchy candied pecans and a swirl of maple syrup, perfect for a quick, healthy breakfast. Save
A jar of creamy overnight oats with crunchy candied pecans and a swirl of maple syrup, perfect for a quick, healthy breakfast. | epicurestates.com

Start your morning on a high note with these Overnight Oats with Candied Pecans and Maple Syrup. This recipe transforms humble oats into a gourmet-style breakfast by combining a creamy, protein-rich base with the irresistible crunch of homemade caramelized pecans. It is an easy, satisfying meal that you can prep in advance for those busy weekday mornings.

A jar of creamy overnight oats with crunchy candied pecans and a swirl of maple syrup, perfect for a quick, healthy breakfast. Save
A jar of creamy overnight oats with crunchy candied pecans and a swirl of maple syrup, perfect for a quick, healthy breakfast. | epicurestates.com

The magic of overnight oats lies in the soaking process, where the chia seeds and rolled oats soften to a velvety consistency. Adding a crown of warm, cinnamon-spiced candied pecans provides a delightful contrast that makes every bite feel special.

Ingredients

  • Oats Base:
  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Candied Pecans:
  • 1/2 cup pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Pinch of cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Toppings:
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for drizzling)
  • Fresh fruit (optional, e.g., sliced banana, berries)
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Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Oats
In a medium bowl, combine oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.
Step 2: Prepare the Syrup
For the candied pecans: Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. In a skillet over medium heat, combine sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture bubbles.
Step 3: Toast the Pecans
Add pecans and stir to coat. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until pecans are toasted and coated in the syrup.
Step 4: Cool the Topping
Transfer candied pecans to prepared baking sheet and spread into a single layer. Let cool completely.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
In the morning, stir the oats and divide between two bowls or jars. Top with candied pecans, a drizzle of maple syrup, and fresh fruit if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best consistency, use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats, as they hold their texture better during the long soak. Always stir the mixture thoroughly before putting it in the fridge to prevent the chia seeds from clumping at the bottom.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan-friendly version, simply use your favorite plant-based milk and yogurt and substitute the butter in the pecan recipe with a vegan alternative. You can also customize the flavor profile by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the oat base during step one.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these oats in glass jars for an attractive, portable breakfast. Top with fresh seasonal fruit like sliced bananas or vibrant berries to add a refreshing acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the maple syrup and pecans.

Layered overnight oats topped with golden caramelized pecans and a rich maple syrup drizzle, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Save
Layered overnight oats topped with golden caramelized pecans and a rich maple syrup drizzle, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. | epicurestates.com

Enjoy a stress-free morning with this delicious, make-ahead American classic. Whether you're fueling up for work or enjoying a slow weekend, these creamy oats and crunchy pecans are sure to satisfy your breakfast cravings.

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Overnight Oats Candied Pecans

Creamy soaked oats with crunchy candied pecans and maple syrup make a satisfying morning treat.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
10 min
Complete duration
20 min


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 2 Portions

Dietary considerations Meat-free

Components

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

01 1/2 cup pecan halves
02 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 1 tablespoon water
04 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
05 Pinch of cinnamon
06 Pinch of salt

Toppings

01 2 tablespoons maple syrup
02 Fresh fruit such as sliced banana or berries (optional)

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare Base Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly, cover with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.

Phase 02

Setup Candied Pecans: Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. In a skillet over medium heat, combine sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, and salt. Stir continuously until sugar dissolves and mixture begins to bubble.

Phase 03

Toast Pecans: Add pecans to the skillet and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring constantly until pecans are toasted and fully coated in the caramelized syrup.

Phase 04

Cool Pecans: Transfer candied pecans to the prepared baking sheet and spread into a single layer. Allow to cool completely at room temperature until crispy.

Phase 05

Assemble and Serve: In the morning, stir the refrigerated oat mixture thoroughly and divide between two bowls or jars. Top each portion with candied pecans, a drizzle of maple syrup, and fresh fruit if desired.

Necessary tools

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Airtight container or jars
  • Baking sheet with parchment paper

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain.
  • Tree nuts (pecans)
  • Dairy (if using dairy milk and yogurt)
  • Gluten (if oats are not certified gluten-free)

Nutritional information (each portion)

These values are offered as a general guide and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 410
  • Fat: 19 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Protein: 12 g