There’s something magically cozy about waking up to a jar of creamy, spiced oats ready to go. This High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe brings that warm gingerbread flavor with a serious protein boost, so it’s not just dessert for breakfast—it’s fuel that keeps you full.

A clear glass jar filled with a thick, tan, speckled mixture that looks creamy and textured, topped with a swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled lightly with cinnamon or nutmeg. A small gingerbread cookie shaped like a smiling person with white icing decoration is placed standing at the rim inside the jar. The jar sits on a white plate on a white marbled surface, with another small gingerbread cookie lying on the plate near the bottom left corner. Blurred green miniature pine trees are in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I love how this high protein gingerbread overnight oats recipe turns something simple like oats into a luscious, seasonal breakfast treat that’s actually healthy. It’s a game changer on busy mornings when you want something ready and satisfying.

High Protein Power: With 27 grams of protein, this recipe truly doubles as a hearty meal, perfect for muscle recovery or a busy day ahead.
Rich, Cozy Flavors: The combination of cinnamon, ginger, molasses, and a hint of maple syrup nails that classic gingerbread spice profile.
Super Easy Prep: Just mix it in a jar, refrigerate overnight, and you’re set without any morning rush fuss.
Customizable & Versatile: You can easily swap ingredients or toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs.

A tall clear jar filled with three layers of a thick oatmeal mix that is light brown with dark chia seeds spread throughout. On top, there is a layer of clusters of granola that are golden brown and crunchy in texture. Above that, a small swirl of white whipped cream is placed slightly to the left, dusted lightly with cinnamon powder making it look speckled light brown. A smiling gingerbread cookie decorated with white icing is standing on the right side inside the jar, next to a small silver spoon that leans on the jar’s rim. The jar sits on a white plate with a white marbled textured surface behind and softly blurred green Christmas tree shapes in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient here plays a role not just in flavor but texture and nutrition, making for a balanced, delicious breakfast. Picking quality protein powder and good molasses really elevates the taste.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of milk, a small white ceramic bowl of old fashioned rolled oats, a small white ceramic bowl of vanilla protein powder, a small white ceramic bowl of dark molasses, a small white ceramic bowl of amber pure maple syrup, a small white ceramic bowl of black chia seeds, a small white ceramic bowl of golden vanilla extract, a small white ceramic bowl of ground cinnamon powder, a small white ceramic bowl of ground ginger powder, two whole uncracked brown eggs placed symmetrically, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Milk of choice: I used Fairlife 2%, which gives creaminess and extra protein, but any milk or milk alternative works.
Old fashioned rolled oats: They absorb liquid well overnight and hold a nice chew without getting mushy.
Vanilla protein powder: Adds flavor and a hefty protein boost—vanilla blends perfectly with the gingerbread spices.
Molasses: This is the heart of that deep gingerbread flavor, plus it adds natural sweetness.
Pure maple syrup: For gentle sweetness without overpowering the spices.
Chia seeds: They thicken the oats and provide fiber, omega-3s, and extra texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet warmth, balancing spices and protein powder.
Ground cinnamon: Classic gingerbread spice that’s both fragrant and comforting.
Ground ginger: Adds that zesty ginger kick essential to the gingerbread vibe.
Whipped cream and/or small gingerbread cookie: Optional, but a fun indulgent topping that makes breakfast feel festive.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I personally love to tweak this recipe depending on the season or what I have on hand — sometimes I throw in a handful of chopped nuts or swirl in some pumpkin puree for an extra fall twist. The great thing about overnight oats is how forgiving and flexible they are!

Variation: Adding pumpkin puree boosted the creaminess and deepened the fall spice vibes—plus it added more fiber to my breakfast.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap the milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk and use a plant-based protein powder for a vegan-friendly version.
Sweetness Level: Feel free to adjust the maple syrup to taste—sometimes I like it less sweet, especially if I top with whipped cream.

Step-by-Step: How I Make High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Measure Your Ingredients

Start by putting out your milk, oats, protein powder, spices, and sweeteners. Precise measuring really helps balance the flavors, especially with strong spices like ginger and cinnamon. I like to use a medium glass jar with a lid; it’s perfect for mixing and storing.

Step 2: Combine Everything in a Jar

Pour the milk first, then add oats, protein powder, molasses, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir everything really well so the molasses and protein powder don’t clump. I usually use a spoon to break up any lumps—makes for a smoother texture.

Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight (or At Least 6 Hours)

This is the magic step. The oats soak up the liquid, chia seeds thicken the mix, and the flavors meld together. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how creamy the oats get without cooking.

Step 4: Add Your Favorite Toppings and Enjoy

I like topping mine with a dollop of whipped cream and a tiny gingerbread cookie for crunch and a festive touch. But fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup work just as well.

Top Tip

From making this high protein gingerbread overnight oats recipe dozens of times, I’ve found a few tricks that really make it shine.

Protein Powder Choice: Use a mild vanilla-flavored protein powder—you don’t want anything too chalky or overpowering.
Mix Thoroughly: To avoid clumps, especially of molasses and powder, mix very well with a fork or small whisk before refrigerating.
Chia Seeds for Texture: These add thickness, but if you prefer runnier oats, reduce them slightly.
Check Sweetness: Molasses is strong and a bit bitter; balance it carefully with maple syrup to suit your taste.

How to Serve High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe

gingerbread overnight oats - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

My go-to garnish is a small swirl of whipped cream paired with a mini gingerbread cookie—it feels indulgent without going overboard. Fresh pear slices or chopped pecans add a lovely crunch and complement the spiced flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since the oats are quite filling, I often pair them with a simple cup of black coffee or chai tea. Occasionally, a hard-boiled egg on the side helps me hit my protein goals without spoiling the gingerbread vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday breakfasts, I love layering the overnight oats in a clear jar with dollops of vanilla yogurt and a sprinkle of crushed ginger snaps between layers. It makes for a stunning, festive parfait that guests always rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover oats refrigerated in a sealed jar or container. They stay fresh and tasty for up to 2 days, though I usually find they’re gone much sooner because who can resist?

Freezing

Freezing overnight oats isn’t my preference since the texture changes quite a bit. If you try it, thaw slowly in the fridge and stir well before eating to help with any separation.

Reheating

I usually enjoy this recipe cold, but if you prefer warm, microwave it for 30-45 seconds and stir. If it seems thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it back up without losing that creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and choose a vegan-friendly protein powder. Just ensure the molasses and maple syrup you use are organic and unprocessed for a fully plant-based option.

What type of protein powder works best?

I recommend a mild vanilla whey or plant-based protein powder with a smooth texture. This complements the spices without a chalky aftertaste. If it’s too strong, you can reduce the amount slightly or balance flavors with extra maple syrup.

Can I prepare this recipe for several days in advance?

Yes, you can prepare up to 3 jars at once for a quick grab-and-go breakfast during the week. Keep them refrigerated and consume within 2 days for the best flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have molasses?

Molasses is key for that authentic gingerbread flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute it with dark brown sugar or maple syrup. The flavor will be a little different but still delicious and sweet.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe is honestly one of my favorite ways to enjoy a fuss-free, nutritious breakfast that feels a little bit special every time. It’s perfect year-round, but especially when you crave a touch of holiday coziness without all the sugar overload. Give it a whirl—you might find it becomes your morning ritual just like me!