Cherry and Almond Overnight Oats: A Bakewell Tart Dream

I remember my grandmother always having a slice of Bakewell tart waiting on the kitchen counter, its sweet almond fragrance filling her cozy home. The combination of cherries and almonds instantly transports me back to those cherished moments. These Cherry and Almond Overnight Oats are a playful nod to that classic flavor profile, making for a delightful and convenient breakfast or snack that brings a bit of that warmth and nostalgia into my busy modern life. They’re incredibly simple to prepare, and waking up to a jar of creamy, cherry-almond goodness is a pure joy.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Overnight + 25 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen pitted cherries
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• ⅔ cup old fashioned oats
• ⅔ cup milk, of choice (cow’s, almond, soy, rice…)
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 tablespoons almond butter

Equipment Needed

• Small pot
• Fork
• Small skillet
• Medium bowl
• 2 bowls or mason jars

Instructions

1. First, prepare the cherry compote. In a small pot, combine the frozen pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and water.
2. Place the pot over medium heat. Once the mixture begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low.
3. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10 minutes, until the cherries soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Remove the pot from the heat. Use the back of a fork to gently mash the cherries, creating a slightly chunky compote. Set aside.
5. While the cherries are simmering, toast the sliced almonds. Place them in a small skillet over medium heat.
6. Stir the almonds constantly to prevent burning. Toast until they are lightly browned and fragrant, which should take just a few minutes.
7. Immediately pour the toasted almonds into a bowl to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
8. In a medium bowl, combine the old fashioned oats, milk of choice, almond extract, and almond butter.
9. Stir the ingredients together until well combined. Be aware that the almond butter may not fully mix in; this is perfectly fine. Small clumps of almond butter add a delightful textural element to the finished oats.
10. Add half of the cooked cherry compote to the oat mixture. Stir to incorporate.
11. Divide the oat mixture evenly between two bowls or mason jars.
12. Top each portion with the remaining cooked cherry compote.
13. Cover the bowls or seal the mason jars and store them in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least 6 hours). This allows the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
14. In the morning, remove the overnight oats from the refrigerator.
15. Top each serving with the toasted, flaked almonds.
16. Serve cold and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of other milk alternatives. This adds richness and a subtle coconut flavor that complements the cherries and almonds beautifully.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the cherry compote after simmering. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add an additional teaspoon or two of sugar.
• Prevent sticking: To ensure the cherries don’t stick to the pot while simmering, stir them frequently and use a non-stick saucepan.
• Enhance almond flavor: To deepen the almond flavor, consider using almond-infused milk or adding a drop or two of amaretto liqueur to the oat mixture.
• Make it ahead (even further ahead!): These oats can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. However, I recommend adding the toasted almonds just before serving to maintain their crispness.
• Fixing a runny texture: If your oats are too runny in the morning, simply add a tablespoon of chia seeds or additional oats and let them sit for another 15-20 minutes to absorb excess liquid.
• No almond butter? Any nut butter (peanut, cashew, etc) will work as a substitute. You could also use tahini for a nut-free option.
• For a thicker texture: Use less milk to make the oats thicker.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Cherry and Almond Overnight Oats chilled directly from the refrigerator. For a more visually appealing presentation, layer the oats, cherry compote, and toasted almonds in a clear glass or jar. A sprinkle of extra sliced almonds and a fresh cherry on top makes for a beautiful garnish.

Leftover overnight oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store them without the toasted almonds, adding those just before serving to maintain their crunch. Reheating is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the oats.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	417.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	N/A
Total Fat	19.5 g	29%
Saturated Fat	3.3 g	16%
Cholesterol	11.4 mg	3%
Sodium	76.4 mg	3%
Total Carbohydrate	52.6 g	17%
Dietary Fiber	7.4 g	29%
Sugars	23.9 g	95%
Protein	12.8 g	25%

Variations & Substitutions

• Raspberry Almond Overnight Oats: If you can’t find or don’t prefer cherries, substitute with an equal amount of frozen raspberries. The tangy raspberry flavor pairs beautifully with the almond.
• Vegan Delight: Ensure you’re using a plant-based milk alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk.
• Gluten-Free Option: Oats are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check that the specific brand you are using is certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
• Chocolate Cherry Almond: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the oat mixture for a chocolatey twist. You can also sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on top before serving.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oat mixture for a warm, comforting flavor.
• Tropical Twist: Use coconut milk and top with shredded coconut instead of toasted almonds for a tropical variation.
• Seasonal Fruits: In the summer, fresh cherries or other seasonal berries can be used instead of frozen cherries. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use quick-cooking oats instead of old fashioned oats?
A: While you can, the texture will be different. Quick-cooking oats tend to become mushier than old fashioned oats, which retain a more pleasant bite.

Q: Can I use a different type of sweetener?
A: Absolutely! Honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar can be used in place of granulated sugar. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness level.

Q: Do I have to toast the almonds?
A: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch, but it’s not essential. You can use raw almonds if you prefer, but the toasted flavor is highly recommended.

Q: Can I add protein powder to these oats?
A: Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the oat mixture. This will boost the protein content and make it an even more satisfying meal.

Q: What if I’m allergic to almonds?
A: Replace the almond butter with sunflower seed butter (sunbutter) and the almond extract with vanilla extract. Substitute the sliced almonds with pumpkin seeds or other seeds you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope these Cherry and Almond Overnight Oats bring as much joy to your mornings as they do to mine. This simple recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different fruits, nuts, and spices to create your own signature flavor combination. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your routine. Share your creations and feedback – I can’t wait to hear how you’ve made this recipe your own!