Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats is a simple, fresh, and creamy breakfast that you can make the night before and wake up to something wonderful. The oats soak up the sweet creaminess while fresh strawberries add a juicy burst of flavor and a pop of color. It’s like a little treat waiting for you in the fridge, ready to start your day with something light and tasty.
I love making these on busy mornings because they’re so easy to prepare and really save me time. Plus, I like to add just a touch of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it taste a bit extra special. The oats get nice and soft without getting mushy, which is something I always look for in overnight oats.
My favorite way to enjoy these is straight from the jar, topped with a few more fresh strawberries or even a handful of nuts for a bit of crunch. It feels like a little dessert for breakfast, but it’s healthy enough to keep me going until lunch. If you’ve never tried overnight oats before, this strawberries and cream version is a great place to start!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These absorb liquid well and soften overnight without turning mushy. If you only have quick oats, they’ll still work but the texture will be softer. Avoid steel-cut oats as they take longer to soften.
Milk: I like using whole milk for a creamier texture, but any milk works—almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk all make tasty dairy-free options.
Yogurt: This adds creaminess and a slight tang. Plain or vanilla yogurt works best. For dairy-free, coconut or almond milk yogurt are great substitutes.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give a bright, juicy flavor. If you want out-of-season options, frozen strawberries can be thawed and stirred in, though they’ll be softer.
How Can I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture Without Mushy Oats?
The key is soaking the oats just long enough—overnight or about 6 hours. Here’s how to nail it:
- Use rolled oats for a balance of texture and softness.
- Mix oats well with milk and yogurt so every oat gets some moisture.
- Don’t add too much liquid—start with equal parts oats and milk, plus yogurt for creaminess.
- Keep the mixture sealed in the fridge to prevent drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
- Stir before eating to combine any settled layers.
Following these steps keeps your oats soft and creamy but still with a nice bite, making your strawberries and cream overnight oats a fresh and delicious breakfast.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl or jar – I recommend a jar with a lid because it’s easy to store and clean.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate portions of oats, milk, and sweetener.
- Stirring spoon – to mix everything thoroughly so the oats soak evenly.
- Refrigerator – to keep your oats cold and allow them to soak overnight.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different berry flavor that pairs well with cream.
- Add a spoonful of almond or peanut butter for a richer, nutty taste.
- Mix in some chopped nuts or granola on top for extra crunch and protein.
- Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup plain or vanilla yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe only takes about 5 minutes to prepare. You’ll mix everything and then let it chill in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours so the oats get soft and ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything well so it’s fully mixed and smooth.
2. Add Strawberries:
Fold in half of the chopped strawberries carefully so they’re spread throughout the oats.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your jar or bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it sit overnight or for at least 6 hours to soften the oats and blend all the flavors.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Top with the remaining fresh strawberries. Enjoy your creamy and fresh strawberries and cream overnight oats straight from the jar or in a bowl. If you like, add some nuts or granola on top for a little crunch!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before mixing in. Keep in mind frozen berries may add a bit more moisture and can make the oats slightly softer.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Without Yogurt?
Absolutely! You can skip the yogurt and use a little extra milk or a splash of cream for richness. The oats will still soften nicely, but the texture may be a bit less creamy.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Store your prepared oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving and add fresh toppings each time to keep them tasting fresh.
Can I Make These Overnight Oats Ahead of Time for the Week?
You sure can! Make multiple jars ahead of time and store them in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week. Just add fresh strawberries or toppings before eating.
