is apple necessary to bircher muesli?

I think the oats soften solely because of the absorption of liquid. You don't even need to soak overnight. The oats are chewier, but still good.

Thanks Maedi! I didn't know if the acidity did something to 'cook' the oats or not. I will forage ahead with yogurt and milk overnight and berries in the morning!

Apples are not necessary, and you don't have to grate them--you can slice them thinly. I use whatever fruit is in season--so I usually make Müsli during the spring and summer when I have a wide variety of fruit available.

Argh! I hit "send" before I finished my question. I meant to ask: does the apple do "something" to the oats that is vital to the bircher-ness? If I skip it, will it alter more than the taste? I'm stuck in a short term rental with no grater!!

Thanks so much!