Pistachio Orange Blossom Overnight Oats are a fragrant, make-ahead breakfast that balances creamy oats, bright citrus, and crunchy nuts. I first made this when I wanted something fragrant and easy for a busy morning — the orange blossom water gives a delicate floral note that makes each spoonful feel a little special. It’s perfect for weekday breakfasts, light brunches, or packing for work when you want something both refreshing and satisfying. If you enjoy creative breakfast bowls, you might also like my cottage cheese breakfast oats for a tangier, protein-forward twist.
Why you’ll love this dish
This version of overnight oats is quick to assemble, needs no cooking, and improves as it sits. The pistachios add satisfying crunch and healthy fats, while orange blossom water lifts the flavor without adding sugar. Make it for busy mornings, a portable breakfast for long commutes, or a pretty dish for weekend brunch. It’s budget-friendly, kid-friendly (adjust sweetness), and easy to scale up for meal prep.
“A floral note that turns ordinary oats into something I look forward to — light, nutty, and bright.” — regular tester
How this recipe comes together
Step-by-step overview
- Combine milk, oats, sweetener, salt, and vanilla so the oats hydrate and soften.
- Fold in chopped pistachios and orange blossom water so the nuts are evenly distributed and the floral aroma infuses the mixture.
- Chill the mixture for at least 8 hours; this gives the oats time to absorb liquid and mellow.
- Stir and finish with fresh orange segments for brightness and texture before serving.
What you’ll need
- 2 cups Almond milk
- 1 cup Rolled oats
- 2 tbsp Honey or maple syrup (use maple syrup to keep it vegan)
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup Pistachios, roughly chopped (reserve a few whole for topping)
- 1 tsp Water, orange blossom
- Fresh orange segments for topping
Notes and substitutions: use any plant-based milk in place of almond milk (oat or soy work well). If you prefer extra creaminess, swap up to half the milk for plain yogurt. For nut-free, replace pistachios with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds. If you want more protein, add a spoonful of nut butter or a scoop of protein powder.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract until the mixture looks even and the sweetener has started to dissolve.
- Stir in the chopped pistachios and the teaspoon of orange blossom water so everything is evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours so the oats soften and absorb the flavors.
- When ready to eat, give the oats a good stir. Spoon into bowls or jars and top with fresh orange segments and the reserved pistachios. Enjoy your overnight oats!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving suggestions
- Serve chilled in a pretty glass jar layered with orange segments and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for a brunch-worthy presentation.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra honey if you want richer mouthfeel.
- Pair with a side of fruit salad or a slice of whole-grain toast for a more substantial meal.
- For a picnic or portable breakfast, seal in a mason jar and bring a small container of toppings to add just before eating.
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Stir before serving; the texture will be thick after chilling.
- Freezing: You can freeze portions for up to one month, but texture changes slightly on thawing—thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well.
- Food safety: Keep refrigerated and discard if left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Use clean utensils to avoid cross-contamination.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use rolled oats (old-fashioned) for the best soak-and-hold texture; quick oats get too soft and steel-cut oats won’t soften enough without cooking.
- Toast the pistachios lightly in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes to deepen their flavor before chopping.
- If you like a creamier result, increase the milk by 2–4 tablespoons or add a spoonful of yogurt when you stir before serving.
- Taste after chilling and adjust sweetness or orange blossom intensity; a little more water of orange blossom goes a long way, so add sparingly.
For another creamy make-ahead breakfast option with a different texture, try my cottage cheese breakfast oats.
Creative twists
Recipe variations
- Citrus boost: Add a teaspoon of finely grated orange zest to brighten flavors.
- Berry + pistachio: Top with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a colorful contrast.
- Tropical spin: Swap orange segments for mango and add shredded coconut.
- Protein upgrade: Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or 2 tbsp chia seeds when mixing ingredients.
- Vegan option: Use maple syrup and a plant-based yogurt if you want extra creaminess without dairy.
Common questions
Q: How long does prep take?
A: Active prep is under 10 minutes. Most time is hands-off chilling for at least 8 hours.
Q: Can I use other milks?
A: Yes — oat, soy, cashew, or cow’s milk will all work. Full-fat milk or yogurt yields a richer texture.
Q: Is orange blossom water safe for kids and pregnant people?
A: Orange blossom water is a culinary flavoring used in small amounts. If you have concerns about sensitivities or dietary restrictions, consult a healthcare professional.
Q: Can I heat overnight oats?
A: Yes. Warm gently in a small saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk, stirring until heated through. Texture will change; some prefer it chilled.
Q: Will the pistachios get soggy?
A: Nuts absorb some moisture. For maximum crunch, reserve a few chopped pistachios for topping just before serving.
Helpful answers
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Absolutely — reduce the honey/maple syrup to 1 tbsp or omit entirely and rely on the orange segments for natural sweetness.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger container or two jars and keep refrigerated; consume within 4 days.
Conclusion
If you want an elegant, make-ahead breakfast with a floral lift and crunchy texture, these pistachio orange blossom overnight oats are a winner. For another recipe that explores orange blossom water in a breakfast context, see Ashta-Inspired Overnight Oatmeal with Orange Blossom and Rose ….
Print
Pistachio Orange Blossom Overnight Oats
- Total Time: 480 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fragrant, make-ahead breakfast that balances creamy oats, bright citrus, and crunchy nuts, perfect for busy mornings or brunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Almond milk
- 1 cup Rolled oats
- 2 tbsp Honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup Pistachios, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp Orange blossom water
- Fresh orange segments for topping
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract until even.
- Stir in the chopped pistachios and orange blossom water, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- When ready to serve, stir the oats and spoon into bowls or jars, topped with fresh orange segments and reserved pistachios.
Notes
For a vegan option, use maple syrup and plant-based yogurt. Can substitute pistachios with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for nut-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean