Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to a breakfast that feels indulgently creamy, bursting with bright fruity sweetness, and ready to eat without any fuss, the Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It combines tender rolled oats soaked to perfection in luscious yogurt and milk, with juicy, fresh strawberries folded in for that perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe isn’t just easy—it’s nourishing, colorful, and oh-so-delicious, making mornings something you’ll genuinely look forward to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is crucial for this recipe’s dreamy texture and fresh taste. Each simple ingredient plays a special role, from creamy to crunchy, sweet to subtly tangy.
- Rolled oats: These form the hearty base that softens beautifully overnight without becoming mushy.
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): Adds creaminess and moisture to hydrate the oats perfectly.
- Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt): Brings richness and a slight tang that balances sweetness.
- Chia seeds (optional): Tiny fiber-packed gems that help thicken the mixture and add a nice texture.
- Honey or maple syrup (optional): Natural sweetness to enhance the strawberries without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract: A splash adds a warm, comforting aroma that lifts the whole dish.
- Fresh strawberries: The star ingredient—ripe, diced, and bursting with juicy flavor.
- Sliced almonds or granola (optional): For a crunchy topping that gives texture contrast and a nutty note.
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
Start by combining the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds (if using), honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a mason jar or airtight container. Stir everything together until the oats are fully coated and the mixture looks smooth. This creamy base is where the overnight magic happens, allowing the oats and chia seeds to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 2: Fold in the Fresh Strawberries
Gently fold diced fresh strawberries into the oat mixture, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout. You want little bursts of strawberry in every bite without crushing them too much, so handle them lovingly.
Step 3: Chill Overnight
Seal the container and pop it in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or ideally overnight. This resting time lets the oats absorb the liquid perfectly, and the flavors meld together into that signature creamy, fruity delight.
Step 4: Stir and Adjust in the Morning
The next morning, give the oats a quick stir to redistribute any settling. If you prefer an even creamier texture, add a splash more milk and mix in gently until it’s just right.
Step 5: Add Your Favorite Toppings
Top your overnight oats with extra fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of sliced almonds or crunchy granola. This last step adds a wonderful texture contrast and elevates the dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Serve Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh fruit slices, especially additional strawberries or even blueberries, work beautifully. A few mint leaves can add a fresh pop of color and aroma, while a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey bring extra warmth and sweetness to the bowl.
Side Dishes
This creamy, fruity breakfast pairs wonderfully with a simple boiled egg or a piece of whole-grain toast for a more substantial morning meal. A hot cup of tea or coffee complements the cool oats with a soothing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your oats layered in a clear glass jar or parfait cup to showcase the dreamy pink and white hues. You can even swirl in some strawberry puree or jam before chilling for added visual appeal and flavor intensity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to make more than one serving, leftover overnight oats keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just cover tightly to prevent drying out and stir before enjoying.
Freezing
This recipe doesn’t freeze particularly well because the texture of soaked oats changes when thawed. It’s best to prepare portions fresh or refrigerate instead.
Reheating
Overnight oats are traditionally eaten cold, but if you prefer them warm, gently microwave for 30-45 seconds and stir in a little extra milk to loosen the texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen strawberries work in a pinch, but they’ll release more moisture and make the oats a bit juicier. To avoid a watery texture, thaw and drain them slightly before folding in.
Is it okay to omit the chia seeds?
Absolutely! Chia seeds help thicken and add fiber, but your oats will still be deliciously creamy without them.
What’s the best type of yogurt to use?
Greek yogurt is ideal for the creamy texture and tang, but feel free to use any plant-based yogurt to suit dietary preferences or allergies.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before for multiple days?
Yes, you can make several jars at once for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week. Just keep each portion sealed and refrigerated.
How can I make the recipe sweeter without using honey or maple syrup?
You could add mashed ripe banana or a splash of vanilla-flavored almond milk to naturally sweetness without refined sugars.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about starting your day with the Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats Recipe. It’s effortless, wholesome, and tastes like a special treat even on the busiest mornings. Once you try it, I promise you’ll love having a jar of this vibrant, creamy goodness ready to go in your fridge. Give it a try and watch your mornings transform!
Print
Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes (including refrigeration time)
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing and nutritious Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats recipe is a perfect make-ahead breakfast option. Combining creamy Greek yogurt, fresh strawberries, and wholesome rolled oats soaked overnight, it delivers a deliciously smooth texture and balanced sweetness. Ideal for busy mornings, this easy-to-prepare dish provides a wholesome start to your day with optional chia seeds for extra fiber and almonds or granola for a crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, like almond or oat milk)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt)
Add-ins
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional for added fiber)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit & Toppings
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tablespoon sliced almonds or granola (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a mason jar or airtight container, mix rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined. This forms the creamy overnight oat mixture.
- Add Strawberries: Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries to evenly distribute them throughout the oat mixture without breaking the fruit.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the container tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the oats to soak and flavors to meld.
- Stir Before Serving: In the morning, stir the oats well, adding additional milk if you prefer a thinner, creamier consistency.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Top with more fresh strawberries and your choice of sliced almonds or granola for extra texture and crunch, then enjoy your nutritious breakfast.
Notes
- This recipe is highly customizable; swap out strawberries for any fresh berries or fruits you prefer.
- Use plant-based milk and yogurt for a vegan version.
- Soaking oats overnight improves digestibility and texture while saving prep time in the morning.
- Chia seeds are optional but add extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- If you prefer sweeter oats, adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
