What can I use instead of molasses in gingerbread oats?

Jaggery syrup is what this recipe uses, and it gives a similar dark, caramel sweetness. Dark brown sugar dissolved in a little warm water also works.

Can I use fresh ginger?

Yes. Grate a small amount into the base. It is sharper and brighter than ground ginger, so taste as you go.

Overnight OatsContinental

Gingerbread

Holiday flavors without the holiday calories. The warming combination of ginger and cinnamon creates that nostalgic gingerbread taste. Perfect for winter mornings, holiday season, or when you want to feel festive. The spices have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits too.

Time: 365 min
Method: Mix
Serves: 1
Energy: 530 kcal
Protein: 15 g

Go to the method

Glass jar of gingerbread overnight oats topped with ginger, cinnamon, jaggery syrup and dried apples

Method

Step 1: Mix ground ginger and cinnamon into your DIY Oats base.
Step 2: Add dried apple pieces and drizzle with jaggery syrup for that molasses-like sweetness.
Step 3: The dried apples will rehydrate overnight, becoming plump and juicy.
Step 4: The spices create that classic gingerbread flavor profile.
Step 5: Add more ginger if you like it spicier.

Notes from the Department

Holiday flavors

Nutrition

1 serving

530 cal | 15g protein | 13g fiber

2 servings

1060 cal | 30g protein | 26g fiber

Estimates. Not medical advice.

Why it works

Gingerbread is really about three things: ginger, cinnamon and something dark and sweet. Here the dark sweet part is jaggery syrup, which tastes close to molasses and is far easier to find in an Indian kitchen. The spices go into the base so they can deepen overnight, and the dried apple pieces quietly drink up milk and turn plump by morning.

Adjusting the spice

Ground ginger gets warmer the longer it sits. Start with a modest amount if you are new to it, then add more next time. A pinch of nutmeg or clove pushes it further towards the festive end. Fresh grated ginger works too and tastes brighter and sharper.

Serving ideas

A spoon of Greek yogurt on top cools the spice down. A few chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch. It is a December sort of jar, though nobody will issue you a notice for eating it in June.

If you are using a homemade base

Soak rolled oats overnight in milk with chia seeds and a few almonds, stirring the ginger and cinnamon in at the start.

Storage

Keeps covered in the fridge for a day or two. One serving: around 530 calories, 15g protein and 13g fibre.

Questions people ask

What can I use instead of molasses in gingerbread oats?: Jaggery syrup is what this recipe uses, and it gives a similar dark, caramel sweetness. Dark brown sugar dissolved in a little warm water also works.
Can I use fresh ginger?: Yes. Grate a small amount into the base. It is sharper and brighter than ground ginger, so taste as you go.

Department of Recipes