Irresistible Indian Overnight Oats: 7-Step Creamy Kulfi-Inspired Breakfast Recipe
Introduction
Start your day with a creamy, flavorful twist on classic overnight oats inspired by Indian kulfi. This recipe combines fragrant spices, nuts, and a touch of sweetness for a nourishing breakfast that’s ready when you are.

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
- Step 1: Warm milk to about 110°F (43°C) and stir in saffron strands and ground cardamom. Let it steep for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Step 2: In a jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats and chia seeds if using.
- Step 3: Pour the saffron and cardamom infused milk over the oats. Add honey, rose water, and vanilla extract, then mix well to combine.
- Step 4: Cover the mixture and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Step 5: Before serving, stir the oats gently to loosen the texture.
- Step 6: Top with chopped pistachios, almonds, or your preferred nuts and dried fruits for added crunch and taste.
- Step 7: Serve chilled. If the oats are too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with a few extra saffron strands if you like.
Tips & Variations
- Swap pistachios and almonds with cashews or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Use coconut milk for a richer, tropical taste that complements the spices well.
- Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt in the morning for extra creaminess and protein.
- If you prefer a vegan version, choose maple syrup and plant-based milk.
Storage
Store the overnight oats covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before eating, and add a splash of milk if the texture has thickened too much. This makes a convenient grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week.
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. They help thicken the oats and add extra fiber, but the oats will still soften well without them.
What can I use if I don’t have rose water?
If you don’t have rose water, you can omit it or replace it with a small amount of orange blossom water or simply extra vanilla extract for a subtle floral note.
Print
Irresistible Indian Overnight Oats: 7-Step Creamy Kulfi-Inspired Breakfast Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Experience a creamy and flavorful twist on traditional overnight oats with this Irresistible Indian Overnight Oats recipe inspired by kulfi. Infused with cardamom, saffron, and rose water, and topped with crunchy pistachios and almonds, this easy-to-make breakfast is both nutritious and delicious, perfect for a refreshing start to your day.
Ingredients
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
- Infuse Milk: Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and stir in the saffron strands and ground cardamom. Allow the mixture to steep for at least 5 minutes so the flavors develop thoroughly.
- Prepare Oats Mixture: In a jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats and chia seeds if using, creating the base for the overnight oats.
- Add Milk and Sweeteners: Pour the saffron and cardamom-infused milk over the oats mixture. Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness, along with rose water and vanilla extract if desired. Mix everything well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften.
- Stir Before Serving: Before serving, gently stir the oats to ensure a creamy consistency and even texture.
- Add Toppings: Top the prepared oats with chopped pistachios and almonds, or any preferred nuts and dried fruits to add crunch and flavor.
- Serve Chilled: Serve the oats chilled. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Optionally, garnish with extra saffron strands for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Use plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk for a vegan version.
- Soaking longer than 6 hours enhances texture but avoid more than 24 hours to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust sweetness according to your taste preference, or omit honey/maple for a sugar-free version.
- Optional toppings can include dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates for extra natural sweetness.
- Make sure milk is warm, not hot, to avoid cooking the oats prematurely or losing saffron flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Indian
Keywords: overnight oats, Indian breakfast, kulfi inspired, cardamom oats, saffron oats, healthy breakfast, chia seeds, no cook breakfast, easy oats recipe

