If you’re craving a breakfast that tastes like dessert (but is secretly nourishing), you have to try these Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats! This recipe captures all the nostalgic flavor of a classic summer treat, but it’s designed for busy mornings—super creamy, bursting with juicy strawberries, and ready from the fridge when you wake up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Dreamy: The combination of Greek yogurt and oats transforms into an ultra-luxurious texture by morning—just like eating strawberries and cream with a spoon.
- Effortless Prep: Five minutes is all you need to mix this up; then, your fridge does the magic while you get your beauty sleep.
- Naturally Sweet & Filling: Sweet strawberries bring natural sugar, while protein powder and chia seeds keep you full and energized through lunchtime.
- Totally Customizable: Whether you’re dairy free, vegan, or want extra protein, Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats adapt to you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This simple lineup of ingredients is all about maximum flavor with minimal fuss! Each component does its part to make these Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats satisfyingly creamy, fruity, and satisfying—no fancy specialty products or gadgets required.
- Old-fashioned oats: These create thick, hearty oats that hold their shape (avoid quick oats for best texture).
- Milk: Any kind will do—cow’s, almond, soy—this is your creamy base.
- Strawberry Greek yogurt: Adds tang, sweetness, protein, and a burst of creamy strawberry flavor.
- Chia seeds: For natural thickening and fiber, giving that classic overnight oats “pudding” texture.
- Fresh or frozen strawberries: Dice them for juicy bites throughout every spoonful; frozen works perfectly if that’s what you have.
- Vanilla protein powder (optional): For an extra boost of staying power—and a little vanilla ice cream vibe!
- Water (optional): Use a splash to loosen the mixture if it looks too thick after mixing.
Variations
The beauty of Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats is how easy it is to make them your own! Mix and match flavors, swap ingredients, or adjust for dietary needs—the possibilities are endless, and breakfast will never be boring.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use coconut yogurt or a plant-based Greek-style yogurt, and your favorite non-dairy milk.
- Mixed Berry Dream: Swap some of the strawberries for blueberries and raspberries for a juicy medley.
- Chocolate Lovers: Stir in a teaspoon of cocoa powder or use chocolate protein powder for a dessert-inspired breakfast.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a tablespoon of chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and healthy fats.
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Step 1: Gather & Measure Ingredients
Start by assembling all your ingredients: oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, strawberries, and protein powder if you’re using it. Measuring everything out ahead of time streamlines the process and prevents any last-minute scrambling (or missing out on the strawberries!).
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
Add the oats, milk, strawberry Greek yogurt, chia seeds, diced strawberries, and vanilla protein powder (optional) to a pint-sized mason jar or an airtight container. Stir thoroughly to combine, making sure the oats and chia seeds are well incorporated to ensure each bite is creamy and flavorful.
Step 3: Chill Overnight
Seal the jar or container and pop it in the refrigerator. For best results, let the oats soak overnight (at least 6 hours), but if you’re short on time, even 2 hours will do in a pinch. The oats and chia seeds need this time to absorb the liquid and plump up to perfection.
Step 4: Stir, Adjust & Enjoy
In the morning, give your oats a good stir. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water or milk until you reach your perfect creamy consistency. Top with extra sliced strawberries or any favorite extras (more ideas below!) and dig in!
Pro Tips for Making Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
- Strawberry Selection: For maximum flavor, use ripe, in-season strawberries—or frozen ones if you want vibrant color and sweetness year-round.
- Creaminess Control: Adjust the ratio of yogurt to milk for your ideal texture—less yogurt for a lighter result, or double up for a thick, almost dessert-like oats.
- No Clump Zone: Mix everything thoroughly before chilling so the chia seeds and protein powder (if using) don’t get stuck together—this really makes a difference!
- Make Ahead Hero: Double or triple the recipe in separate jars for an entire week’s worth of grab-and-go breakfasts.
How to Serve Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Garnishes
Nothing says “treat yourself” quite like a fresh garnish! Top your Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats with extra sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of granola, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a handful of cacao nibs for a breakfast that looks and tastes extra-special. A little fresh mint adds a lovely color pop, too.
Side Dishes
Turn this easy breakfast into a brunch-worthy meal by pairing your oats with a hot latte, a glass of citrusy orange juice, or a simple side of scrambled eggs for extra protein. If you’re hosting, serve alongside mini muffins or fruit salad for a delightful spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Wake up your presentation by layering your overnight oats and extra strawberries in pretty glasses for parfait vibes, or portion into adorable mini mason jars for a brunch party. Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats also shine in a breakfast bento box for meal-prep enthusiasts—imagine opening your lunchbox to this treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats tightly sealed in the fridge for up to 4 days. The oats become even creamier as they sit, making this perfect for weekly meal prep. Just give them a good stir before serving!
Freezing
You can freeze individual jars of overnight oats for up to 1 month, but be sure to leave room at the top of the jar for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge, give a thorough stir, and top with fresh strawberries for best flavor.
Reheating
While overnight oats are typically served cold (especially Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats), you can gently warm them in the microwave in 30-second bursts if you prefer. Add extra milk as needed to loosen the texture—just don’t overheat or the yogurt can curdle.
FAQs
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Can I use steel-cut oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Steel-cut oats don’t soften the same way and require much longer soaking, so for these Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats, stick with old-fashioned oats for the best creamy-but-hearty texture.
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Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use your favorite plant-based milk and a dairy-free yogurt alternative (like coconut-based Greek yogurt) to keep all the flavor with none of the dairy.
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Do I need to use protein powder?
Nope—it’s totally optional. The Greek yogurt already packs in plenty of protein, but vanilla protein powder can give a boost (and a lovely vanilla flavor) if you’d like.
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Can I prep Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats more than one day ahead?
Definitely! These overnight oats can be portioned into jars and stored for 3–4 days, making them perfect for meal prepping breakfast for the entire workweek.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend these Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats enough—each spoonful is the perfect balance of creamy oats and bright, fresh fruit. Give them a try and you’ll find mornings suddenly feel brighter, happier, and seriously delicious. Enjoy every berry-packed bite!
Print
Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats are a delightful and nutritious make-ahead breakfast option that is both creamy and fruity.
Ingredients
Oats:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
Liquid:
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4–1/2 cup water (optional)
Yogurt and Seeds:
- 1 cup strawberry Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Strawberries:
- 3/4 cup diced strawberries (fresh or frozen)
Optional:
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: Combine oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, diced strawberries, and optional protein powder in a pint-sized mason jar.
- Let Sit: Refrigerate the mixture overnight or for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 350 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 20g
- Sodium: Approx. 150mg
- Fat: Approx. 8g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 50g
- Fiber: Approx. 8g
- Protein: Approx. 20g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 15mg
