Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats are a delightfully simple and fresh way to start the day. This recipe combines creamy oats soaked overnight with sweet, juicy strawberries for a breakfast that feels like a little treat but takes almost no effort to prepare. The oats get soft and tender, soaking up a creamy mixture that’s just lightly sweetened, making each spoonful smooth and satisfying.
I love making these the night before because it means I can grab a delicious, healthy breakfast right out of the fridge in the morning without any fuss. Sometimes I like to add a little vanilla or a splash of honey to the cream mixture to make it taste even more like a dessert in a jar. It’s perfect for busy mornings or when I just want something cool and refreshing to enjoy.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this is by topping it with extra fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of crunchy nuts for a bit of texture. It’s also great on warm days when heavier breakfasts just don’t sound good. It’s simple, tasty, and a little reminder that even a quick morning meal can feel special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oats: Rolled oats are best here because they soak up the milk and soften perfectly overnight. You can use quick oats if you’re in a hurry, but avoid steel-cut oats since they stay too chewy.
Milk & Yogurt: Dairy milk and plain or vanilla yogurt give creaminess and a smooth texture. For dairy-free options, try almond, oat, or coconut milk with a plant-based yogurt. Vanilla yogurt adds a nice hint of sweetness without extra sugar.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring natural sweetness and a juiciness that wakes up the oats. If fresh aren’t available, you can use frozen berries—just thaw them before mixing. Blueberries or raspberries also make great alternatives.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup gently sweeten the oats. You can skip this if your yogurt is already sweetened, or try agave, stevia, or mashed banana for natural sweetness.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in Overnight Oats?
The secret is soaking the oats long enough for the liquid to soften them fully. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix oats with milk and yogurt so each oat gets coated well.
- Add chia seeds if you like—they soak up liquid and make the mixture thicker and pudding-like.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight; this resting time lets oats absorb the liquid and soften.
- Don’t forget to give your oats a good stir in the morning to mix the cream and oats well.
- If it feels too thick, just add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
Following these steps will help you achieve that satisfying creamy, smooth texture that makes overnight oats so nice to eat cold or even at room temperature.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl or large jar – I use a jar because it’s easy to store in the fridge and you can shake it up later.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring everything together smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right portions of oats, milk, and sweeteners.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing fresh strawberries before mixing or topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a citrus twist that complements the berries.
- Stir in a handful of chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for crunch and extra protein.
- Mix in some shredded coconut or chocolate chips for a richer, dessert-like treat.
- Use blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries instead of strawberries for different berry flavors.
Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ½ cup plain or vanilla yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances creamy flavor)
- 4-5 fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just 5 minutes to prepare the night before. Then, you’ll refrigerate the oats for at least 6 hours or overnight so they can soak and become creamy. In the morning, it’s ready to enjoy right away—perfect for busy or lazy mornings alike!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a bowl or mason jar, combine rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds (if using), sweetener, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything well until fully mixed.
2. Add Strawberries:
Carefully fold in the sliced strawberries so they spread evenly throughout the oat mixture.
3. Chill and Soak:
Cover your jar or bowl with a lid or cling wrap. Put it in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours so the oats can absorb the liquid and soften beautifully.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If the texture is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. Top with some extra fresh strawberries and a few oats for a pretty, tasty finish. Serve chilled and enjoy your fresh, creamy breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen strawberries before mixing them into the oats to avoid excess moisture. Drain any extra liquid if needed to keep the oats from getting too watery.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, overnight oats are designed to be made the night before. Prepare the mixture, refrigerate overnight, and enjoy a quick, ready-to-eat breakfast in the morning.
How Should I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if the oats have thickened too much.
Can I Substitute Yogurt With Something Else?
Yes, if you prefer dairy-free, use coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt. Alternatively, you can increase the milk slightly, but yogurt adds extra creaminess and tang, so the texture might be a bit different.