Baklava Overnight Oats Delight

Baklava Overnight Oats were born out of my Sunday morning ritual of prepping breakfast for the week but craving something that tasted like dessert. These oats take inspiration from the flavors of the classic Middle Eastern pastry and transform them into a deeply satisfying, nutritious, make-ahead breakfast.

I first came up with this while looking for a way to use extra pistachios after a holiday tray of baklava disappeared too quickly. Now my mornings feel decadent yet nourishing.

Ingredients

• Old fashioned oats: Provide heartiness and a great creamy texture so choose fresh oats for best results
• Pistachios and walnuts or pecans: Add the nutty crunch that makes this taste like real baklava so look for unsalted and fresh nuts
• Almond flour: Brings richness and a subtle sweetness select extra-fine for best blending
• Maple syrup: Sweetens naturally and beautifully seek out real pure syrup
• Chia seeds: Lend thickening and extra fiber for staying power
• Non dairy milk: Keeps everything creamy use your favorite but almond or oat milk blends well
• Non dairy yogurt: Gives tang and lightness opt for unsweetened so you can control the flavor
• Lime zest: Brightens and wakes up all the other flavors
• Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth for a little extra cozy
• Cinnamon: Offers a gentle baklava warmth and is optional but recommended
• Salt: Sharpens every flavor for balance
• Fruits of choice: Allow flexibility pick what is fresh and in season oranges and berries are great

Instructions

Chop the Nuts:

Combine pistachios almond flour and walnuts in a food processor or chop finely with a knife until you have a coarse mixture. This brings together the signature baklava textures. Add to a bowl with salt lime zest and cinnamon if using then stir well.

Sweeten the Mix:

Add the maple syrup to the nut mixture and stir thoroughly to create a slightly sticky clumpy topping. This will mimic the honeyed crunch of real baklava.

Combine the Oats Base:

Heat the non dairy milk until very warm but not boiling. In a large bowl add oats chia seeds maple syrup vanilla yogurt and lime zest. Pour in about three quarters of the hot milk and stir thoroughly so the oats and chia seeds begin to soften. The warm milk helps everything meld.

Mix in the Baklava Layer:

Fold about a third of your nut mixture into the oats. This infuses every bite with that baklava crunch and keeps the texture interesting.

Let the Oats Soak:

Allow the mixture to sit for five to ten minutes so everything absorbs the liquid. The oats will thicken up. If you prefer a looser oat bowl add milk one tablespoon at a time until the consistency is just right.

Assemble and Chill:

Spoon the oat mixture into jars or serving bowls. Top with the remaining nut mixture for crunch and color. Lay fruit slices of your choice over the top for freshness.

Optional Filo Crisp:

For a true baklava finish brush a filo sheet with oil sprinkle lightly with brown sugar and cinnamon and bake until crisp. Cool and break into shards to add on top.

Pistachios bring both nostalgia and incredible color to this dish. My favorite part is sneaking extra lime zest into the nut topping and watching my family try to guess the secret ingredient. It adds just the right zing to elevate the classic baklava warmth.

Storage Tips

Keep individual jars or containers tightly sealed in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you are topping with fresh fruit or filo crisps add these right before eating to keep their texture at its best. The oats may firm up over time so a splash of extra milk in the morning brings them back to perfect creaminess.

Ingredient Substitutions

Gluten free oats work just as well for those with sensitivities. Swap in pecans for walnuts if you prefer a sweeter softer crunch. Almond or coconut milk both blend smoothly but if you have regular yogurt on hand that works too just reduce the sweetener a touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or at room temperature for an easy breakfast or even a light dessert. Sprinkle extra cinnamon over the top just before serving or layer with pomegranate seeds for extra color. If you want a more indulgent treat add a drizzle of additional syrup and a few shards of crisp filo right before eating.

Cultural Inspiration

Baklava is a beloved pastry across the Mediterranean and Middle East where it is a symbol of sharing and celebration. This overnight oats version lets you enjoy its best flavors in a wholesome way any day of the week without the intense labor and sugar rush of the classic dessert.

Seasonal Adaptations

Fresh berries in summer bring tartness Bake apple slices in autumn for extra warmth Try blood oranges or pomegranate in winter for brightness

Baklava overnight oats will bring new delight to your mornings. Prep ahead and enjoy wholesome flavor all week long.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different nuts for the topping?

Yes, you can substitute pistachios and walnuts with pecans, hazelnuts, or even cashews for a different flavor profile.

→ Is dairy milk suitable instead of non-dairy milk?

Absolutely, regular dairy milk works well if you prefer it over non-dairy alternatives.

→ How long do overnight oats keep in the fridge?

They stay fresh for up to four days when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

→ Can I prepare the nut topping in advance?

Yes, the nut mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated separately until ready to assemble.

→ What fruits pair best with this dish?

Oranges, bananas, or berries complement the flavors beautifully, but you can use any fruit you like.

→ How can I make the oats creamier?

Add a bit more yogurt or milk until you reach your desired texture.