Irresistible Indian Overnight Oats: Creamy Kulfi-Inspired Breakfast Recipe

Introduction

Start your day with a creamy and flavorful twist on traditional overnight oats inspired by the rich, fragrant taste of kulfi. This recipe blends warming spices and nuts for a comforting breakfast that’s ready to enjoy right from the fridge.

Ingredients

• ½ cup rolled oats
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of saffron strands
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
• 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
• 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and stir in the saffron strands and ground cardamom. Let it steep for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
2. Step 2: In a jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats and chia seeds if using.
3. Step 3: Pour the infused milk over the oats and chia seeds. Add honey, rose water, and vanilla extract, then mix well to combine.
4. Step 4: Cover the container and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
5. Step 5: Before serving, stir the oats gently to mix any settled ingredients.
6. Step 6: Top with the chopped pistachios and almonds, or use your preferred nuts and dried fruits for added texture and taste.
7. Step 7: Serve chilled. If the oats are too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the consistency. Garnish with extra saffron strands if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use coconut or almond milk for a dairy-free version that complements the Indian flavors well.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm spice variation.
• Swap pistachios and almonds for cashews or walnuts for different textures.
• If you like it sweeter, increase the honey or maple syrup to taste.
• Try stirring in a spoonful of Greek yogurt before refrigerating for extra creaminess.

Storage

Store the overnight oats in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving and add a splash of milk to refresh the texture if it thickens too much. This makes it a perfect make-ahead breakfast option for busy mornings.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without chia seeds?

Yes, chia seeds are optional and primarily added to thicken the oats and provide extra nutrients. The oats will still become creamy without them.

Is rose water necessary for the flavor?

Rose water adds an authentic floral note that complements the cardamom and saffron, but it’s optional. The oats will still be delicious without it.

Irresistible Indian Overnight Oats: Creamy Kulfi-Inspired Breakfast Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 122 reviews

Enjoy a creamy and flavorful Indian-inspired overnight oats recipe infused with aromatic cardamom, saffron, and topped with crunchy pistachios and almonds. This easy, no-cook breakfast combines traditional kulfi flavors with nutritious oats for a delightful start to your day.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• ½ cup rolled oats
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of saffron strands
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
• 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
• 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Infuse the Milk: Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C), then stir in the saffron strands and ground cardamom. Let it steep for 5 minutes to release the rich aromas and flavors.
2. Prepare the Oats Base: In a jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats with chia seeds if using. This helps add extra texture and nutrition.
3. Mix Milk and Sweeteners: Pour the infused milk over the oats and chia seeds. Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness, along with rose water and vanilla extract if desired. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
4. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the mixture and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and flavors, resulting in a creamy texture.
5. Stir Before Serving: Once chilled, gently stir the oats to ensure even consistency and creaminess.
6. Add Toppings: Top the overnight oats with chopped pistachios and almonds or any preferred nuts and dried fruits for added crunch and flavor.
7. Serve Chilled: Serve the oats cold, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick. Garnish with extra saffron strands if desired for an elegant finish.

Notes

• Use any milk of your choice including almond, soy, or cow’s milk based on preference.
• Chia seeds are optional but add extra fiber and nutrients.
• Adjust sweetness to taste with honey or maple syrup.
• Rose water and vanilla add floral and aromatic notes, but can be omitted.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• For a vegan option, use plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
• Make it your own by adding dried fruits, fresh berries, or coconut flakes as toppings.

Keywords: Indian overnight oats, kulfi inspired breakfast, saffron oats, cardamom oats, healthy breakfast, no-cook oats, chia seed oats, vegetarian Indian breakfast