Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl Recipe

If you’re anything like me, mornings can be a whirlwind, but that does not mean you have to sacrifice flavor or indulgence in your breakfast routine. Let me introduce you to the delightful Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl, a luscious and creamy treat inspired by the classic Italian dessert. This recipe beautifully combines the rich ricotta cheese, sweet vanilla, and irresistible mini chocolate chips all soaking into hearty oats overnight, resulting in a breakfast that’s as easy to prepare as it is to love. It’s the perfect balance of texture and flavor that brightens your morning and feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting those authentic cannoli flavors with a satisfying oat base. Each element is chosen not just for taste but also for texture and a nod to the classic dessert’s signature creaminess and crunch.

• 1 cup milk: The foundation that soaks the oats, bringing everything together with creamy smoothness.
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese: Adds rich, velvety texture and the signature mild tang that makes this dish special.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Provides gentle sweetness that melts seamlessly into the mix without graininess.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers that warm, fragrant note reminiscent of traditional cannoli filling.
• 1 cup Quaker® Oats old fashioned oats: The hearty whole grain base that thickens overnight — be sure not to substitute with quick or steel-cut oats for this recipe.
• Mini chocolate chips: These tiny bursts of rich chocolate echo the classic cannoli’s chocolate chip bits.
• 1 cannoli shell (optional): For garnish and crunch, bringing authentic flair to the presentation.

How to Make Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl

Step 1: Blend the Creamy Base

Start by combining the milk, ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a blender or food processor. Blend these ingredients until perfectly smooth and creamy. This step ensures that the ricotta cheese incorporates evenly, preventing lumps and creating that luscious cannoli-inspired filling texture within your oats.

Step 2: Mix and Refrigerate

Next, pour the creamy mixture over the old-fashioned oats in a bowl. Stir gently to combine all components evenly so that each oat grain can soak up the sweet, rich flavors. Cover the bowl tightly and pop it into the refrigerator overnight. This resting period is where magic happens — the oats absorb the flavors and soften just right.

Step 3: Stir and Portion

In the morning, take your oats out and give them a good stir to redistribute any settling or thickened parts. Divide the overnight oats into two serving bowls, preparing for your delightful finishing touches while the oats are still chilled and creamy.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle your Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl generously with mini chocolate chips and crumble pieces of cannoli shell on top if you’re using it. These garnishes add that delightful textural contrast and visual appeal that will have you excited to dig in right away.

How to Serve Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl

Garnishes

Adding the mini chocolate chips is a game changer because it channels the classic chocolate bits found in cannoli filling, while crumbled cannoli shell pieces deliver a crunchy surprise. You could also consider a light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an additional pop of flavor and color.

Side Dishes

This breakfast bowl pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like juicy berries or sliced oranges, which balance the richness with a bright, refreshing note. A hot cup of coffee or tea is an ideal companion, making your whole morning feel decadent yet cozy.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve your Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl in clear glass jars or parfait-style glasses, layering oats with chocolate chips and garnishes for a visual treat. You can even drizzle a little honey or a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top to elevate the sweetness and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, retaining that creamy texture and sweet flavor.

Freezing

While overnight oats are best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days, you can freeze portions in small containers for up to a month. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before eating. Note that texture may change slightly, so it’s best for those times you want to prep far ahead.

Reheating

If you prefer warm oats, simply heat the refrigerated or thawed portion gently in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through. Be careful to not overheat so the creamy cannoli flavors remain intact and delicious without turning dry.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats?

For the perfect texture and soak time, old fashioned oats are recommended. Quick oats tend to get mushy and steel-cut oats don’t absorb the flavors the same way, so stick with the suggested oats for Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl.

Is ricotta cheese necessary, or can I substitute it?

Ricotta cheese gives this dish its signature creamy, slightly tangy flavor close to cannoli filling. While you could try mascarpone or cream cheese, it will alter the classic taste and texture slightly.

Can I make this vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and use a vegan ricotta cheese alternative or blended tofu for creaminess. The mini chocolate chips should also be dairy-free.

What’s the best way to sweeten these overnight oats?

Powdered sugar dissolves smoothly and keeps the flavor authentic, but you could also experiment with honey or maple syrup for different layers of natural sweetness.

Can I scale this recipe to serve more people?

Absolutely! Just multiply all ingredients accordingly and prepare in a larger container. This recipe scales well for families or meal prep, making Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl a crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about waking up to a bowl of Cannoli Flavored Overnight Oats: A Sweet Breakfast Bowl. It’s a little piece of indulgence that’s simple to make but rich in tradition and flavor, turning an ordinary morning into a celebration of sweet, creamy goodness. I warmly encourage you to give this recipe a try — I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your breakfast lineup, making every day taste a bit more wonderful.

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