There’s something wonderfully cozy about waking up to a jar of creamy, spiced oats ready to enjoy. This High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe blends the nostalgic warmth of gingerbread with a filling protein punch—perfect for busy mornings or anytime you want a wholesome treat that feels indulgent but fuels you right.

A clear glass jar filled with a thick, light brown drink speckled with tiny darker bits fills most of the image. The top layer has a swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled with light brown powder and a small gingerbread cookie shaped like a smiling person with white icing on its arms and face, sticking out from the jar. The jar sits on a white plate on a white marbled surface. There are two more gingerbread cookies like the one on the jar placed on the plate near the jar. Blurred green pine tree decorations appear 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've made quite a few overnight oats recipes, but this one always wins for its perfect balance of flavors and satisfying texture. It feels like a little festive celebration in your breakfast bowl, packed with nutrients that keep me fueled all morning long.

High Protein Boost: Thanks to the vanilla protein powder, you’ll get 27 grams of protein, making this more meal than snack.
Warm Spices: The cinnamon and ginger create that classic gingerbread vibe that’s both comforting and delicious.
Make-Ahead Convenience: It takes just 5 minutes to prep, so mornings can be stress-free and delicious.
Simple Ingredients: Easy to find staples you probably already have in your kitchen, with no complicated steps.

A clear glass jar is filled with three visible layers: the bottom layer is a thick, textured mix of light brown with chia seeds spread throughout; the middle layer shows a denser, oatmeal-like mixture with a creamy light brown color and small clusters; the top layer consists of whipped white cream dusted with light brown cinnamon powder, placed slightly off-center, next to a light brown gingerbread cookie decorated with white icing forming smiling eyes, a mouth, and arm details, standing upright on the right side. A silver spoon leans inside the jar on the right. The jar is set on a white plate against a blurred white marbled surface background with green tree shapes in the distance. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This mix of ingredients combines taste, texture, and nutrition harmoniously. Each one plays a role—from creamy oats soaking up cozy spices to protein powder that adds staying power.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of creamy milk, a small white ceramic bowl filled with old fashioned rolled oats, a small white ceramic bowl containing light beige vanilla protein powder, a small white ceramic bowl with dark glossy molasses, a small white ceramic bowl of amber maple syrup, a small white ceramic bowl holding tiny black chia seeds, a small white ceramic bowl with aromatic ground cinnamon, a small white ceramic bowl with fine ground ginger, a whole uncracked brown egg, and a dollop of fluffy white whipped cream on a simple white ceramic dish 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% milk for its creamy texture and extra protein, but almond or oat milk works well too.
Old fashioned rolled oats: They hold their shape better overnight than quick oats, giving perfect bite.
Vanilla protein powder: Adds sweetness and that protein punch; try to pick one without too much added sugar.
Molasses: Essential for authentic gingerbread flavor, plus it adds a rich, deep sweetness.
Pure maple syrup: Balances out the molasses with a lighter sweetness and subtle complexity.
Chia seeds: Great for texture and fiber, they thicken the oats while boosting nutrition.
Vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor and smooths out the spices.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth.
Ground ginger: Just a pinch adds the perfect kick without overpowering.

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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 love swapping out the protein powder flavor sometimes to change up this recipe. A chocolate or pumpkin spice powder can really mix things up in a fun way. Feel free to add your favorite toppings to customize each serving just how you like it.

Variation: Once I added diced apples and a dash of nutmeg to make it more fall-themed, and it was a big hit with the family.
Dairy-free Swap: Use coconut or almond milk and a plant-based protein powder if you want to keep it vegan.
Extra Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt before refrigerating for creamier oats and extra tang.

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

Step 1: Gather and Measure Your Ingredients

Start by measuring out all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes assembly quick and easy—and less messy. I use a medium-sized glass jar because it’s perfect for mixing and storing in the fridge without extra dishes!

Step 2: Mix It All Together

Combine the milk, oats, protein powder, molasses, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla, cinnamon, and ginger right in your jar or container. Stir thoroughly to make sure the protein powder doesn’t clump and the molasses is evenly distributed. It might look liquidy at first—that’s perfect.

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

Pop the jar in the fridge and let those ingredients work their magic. The oats and chia seeds soak up the liquids, soften, and thicken beautifully. I usually make mine the night before and grab it straight from the fridge in the morning.

Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy

Before digging in, I like to add a little whipped cream or top with a small gingerbread cookie for a festive touch. You could also try nuts or extra cinnamon—whatever makes your morning special!

Top Tip

I’ve made this recipe dozens of times, and these tips really help make it foolproof and delicious every time.

Protein Powder Quality: Choose a protein powder that mixes well with liquids without clumping; vanilla flavored is perfect for this recipe.
Avoid Over-Thickening: Don’t add too many chia seeds or leave it in the fridge for much longer than overnight, or it can get gummy.
Mix Well: Stirring everything together properly before refrigerating prevents powder clumps, leaving you a smooth texture.
Sweetness Balance: Adjust maple syrup and molasses amounts to suit your sweetness preference—start with less if you prefer subtler flavors.

How to Serve High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe

Gingerbread Overnight Oats - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love topping mine with a dollop of whipped cream to evoke that dessert feel, plus a little gingerbread cookie on the side adds crunch and extra spice. Fresh apple slices or chopped walnuts also pair beautifully and add texture.

Side Dishes

To make breakfast even more satisfying, I often have a side of scrambled eggs or a handful of fresh berries alongside. These add variety and round out the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday brunches, I like to serve this in clear mason jars layered with extra vanilla yogurt and sprinkled with festive edible glitter or nuts for that extra wow factor. It makes the experience feel special without a lot of fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Since this recipe is designed as a single serving, leftovers are rare, but if you make a batch, store portions in airtight containers in the fridge and eat within 2-3 days for the best texture and freshness.

Freezing

I haven’t tried freezing overnight oats as they tend to lose their creamy texture after thawing. I recommend prepping fresh batches instead for the best experience.

Reheating

You can enjoy these oats cold right from the fridge or warm them gently in the microwave for 30-45 seconds if you prefer. Adding a splash of milk before heating helps keep them creamy and prevents drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use flavored protein powder in this recipe?

Absolutely! Flavored protein powders like vanilla or cinnamon spice add extra depth, but just be mindful of added sugars to keep it balanced.

How long should I soak the oats?

I recommend at least 6 hours or overnight so the oats become nice and soft, with the chia seeds absorbing liquid to thicken the mix perfectly.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap milk for your favorite plant-based milk and use a vegan protein powder. Just make sure your molasses and maple syrup don’t contain any animal products.

What’s the best way to adjust sweetness?

Start with less maple syrup and molasses than the recipe calls for, taste, and add more as you like. Everyone’s sweetness preference is different!

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe holds a special place in my routine because it’s like a little cozy hug in a jar. Not only is it delicious and filling, but it feels like you’re treating yourself without any guilt. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—and that it brightens your mornings with its warmth and simplicity!