Introduction
Hi there! I’m Benjamin, the home cook behind Mister Recipes. I still remember those hectic school mornings, trying to get my two wonderful kids, Adams and Jana, fed and out the door. It often felt like a choice between something quick and something nourishing. But what if your busiest mornings could start with a breakfast that feels like a decadent dessert but is secretly packed with wholesome goodness? It’s a question that led me down a delicious path of discovery, and the answer is a resounding yes. The secret? This incredible Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats recipe. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a little jar of morning bliss that my entire family adores.
This isnt just another breakfast recipe. It’s a solution for busy parents and anyone craving a delicious, stress free start to their day. It brings back the joy of a homemade breakfast without the morning rush. The taste reminds me of a classic strawberry shortcake or a creamy cheesecake, but in a completely guilt free format. It’s about creating those small moments of connection, even on a busy Tuesday. Sharing a meal that you know is both loved and nourishing is one of the best feelings, and this recipe delivers that in spades. It has become a staple in our home, a simple way to make sure we all start the day with a smile and a happy belly. It embodies everything I believe in: that good food, made with love, truly has the power to bring people together.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats
This recipe is more than just a passing trend; it’s a lifestyle hack for anyone looking to reclaim their mornings. It’s the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and nutrition, making it an absolute game changer for your weekly routine. When I first introduced these oats to Emily and the kids, they were an instant hit. Adams loves the creamy texture, and Jana is all about the sweet strawberry swirls. It’s one of those rare recipes that pleases everyone, which, as any parent knows, is a massive victory. But beyond just the taste, there are so many reasons this Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats recipe will become your new go to breakfast. It’s a simple concept that takes the chaos out of your mornings and replaces it with pure, simple joy, one spoonful at a time. It’s a breakfast that works for you, not the other way around. Other recipe developers agree; for instance, this version from Allrecipes is also highly rated for its simplicity and flavor.
- Effortless Meal Prep Champion: Imagine waking up with breakfast already made. That’s the magic here. You can spend just 10 minutes on a Sunday evening preparing a few jars, and you are set for several days. It completely eliminates that morning scramble, freeing up precious time for what truly matters, like an extra cup of coffee or a few more minutes with your family.
- Tastes Like Dessert, Works Like a Superfood: The flavor is pure indulgence. It’s like having a slice of strawberry cheesecake cookies recipe for breakfast. Yet, it’s packed with fiber from the oats, protein from the Greek yogurt, and antioxidants from the strawberries. It’s a healthy breakfast recipe that keeps you full and energized until lunch, preventing those mid morning snack attacks.
- Completely Customizable to Your Liking: This recipe is a fantastic base for your creativity. You can easily make it a high protein breakfast by adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder. Need it to be vegan? Simply swap for plant based milk and yogurt. You can adjust the sweetness, add different toppings, or even try other berries. It’s a recipe that adapts to your family’s needs and preferences. For more inspiration on variations, you can even check out our high protein brownie batter overnight oats.
- Family and Kid Approved: The creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a huge hit with children. They’ll think they’re getting a special treat, and you’ll know they’re eating something incredibly wholesome. It’s a wonderful way to get more fruit and fiber into their diet without any fuss.
Ingredients for Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (old fashioned oats work best for a chewy, creamy texture; use certified gluten free if needed)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla, for an extra creamy boost and protein; coconut yogurt for a vegan option)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (this is crucial for that thick, pudding like consistency)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to your desired sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries (diced, plus more for topping)
- Optional: 1 oz cream cheese, softened (for an even richer, cheesecake like flavor)
How to Make Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Base: Start by washing and hulling your fresh strawberries. In a medium bowl, add about half of your diced strawberries (1/4 cup). Using a fork, gently mash them until they release their juices and create a chunky, puree like consistency. This step is key because it ensures the sweet strawberry flavor infuses every single bite of the oats, rather than just having chunks of fruit sitting there. You want to create natural strawberry swirls throughout the jar. Set this aside for a moment.
- Mix the Creamy Liquid Ingredients: In a separate bowl or directly in your jar (a 16 oz mason jar is perfect for this), combine the milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. If you’re using the optional cream cheese for that extra decadent cheesecake vibe, make sure it’s very soft and whisk it in vigorously until no lumps remain. This mixture should be smooth and creamy. This is the heart of your Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats, creating that luscious texture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats and chia seeds to your wet ingredients. Stir everything together thoroughly until the oats and a widespread distribution of chia seeds are fully submerged in the liquid. It’s important to make sure there are no dry clumps of oats, as this ensures every part of the mixture soaks up the liquid evenly overnight, resulting in that perfect texture.
- Layer and Swirl: Now for the fun part! Gently fold the mashed strawberry mixture into your oat base. Don’t overmix; you want to create beautiful swirls of red and white. If you’re using a jar, you can do this by layering. Add half the oat mixture, then a spoonful of the mashed strawberries, then the rest of the oats, and give it a gentle swirl with a spoon. Add the remaining fresh diced strawberries and gently fold them in. This layering technique makes for a visually stunning final product.
- Let the Magic Happen (Refrigerate): Seal your jar or container tightly with a lid. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but for the best results, leave it overnight. During this time, the oats and chia seeds will absorb the liquid, soften, and thicken into a perfectly creamy, pudding like consistency. The flavors will also meld together beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: The next morning, give the oats a quick stir. You can eat it straight from the jar for an easy grab and go breakfast. Or, if you have a moment, scoop it into a bowl. Top with extra fresh strawberry slices, maybe a dollop of yogurt or whipped cream, and a sprinkle of granola for crunch. Enjoy your delicious and effortless breakfast!
Pro Tips & Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the fun really begins. Breakfast should never be boring, and this overnight oats recipe is the perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Here in the Sharif household, we have a few tricks up our sleeves to elevate this already delicious meal. These tips will help you perfect the texture and flavor every single time. And the variations? They are perfect for keeping things interesting throughout the week or catering to different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Think of this as your foundational recipe, a starting point for endless breakfast possibilities. For another creative take on the classic, Food Network also offers a delightful strawberry overnight oats recipe that plays with different textures and toppings.
- Tip 1: Choose the Right Oats. For the best creamy texture, stick with old fashioned rolled oats. Quick oats can become too mushy, while steel cut oats won’t soften enough overnight and will result in a very chewy, almost uncooked texture.
- Tip 2: Don’t Skip the Chia Seeds. These little seeds are magical. They absorb liquid, creating that thick, pudding like consistency that makes overnight oats so satisfying. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can use ground flax seeds, but you might need to add a little more as they dont absorb as much liquid.
- Tip 3: Taste and Adjust Sweetness. The sweetness of your strawberries can vary. Before you seal the jar, give the mixture a quick taste. You might want to add a little more maple syrup or a dash of honey. It’s easier to adjust the sweetness at this stage than in the morning.
- Variation: High Protein Powerhouse. To make this a high protein breakfast, add one scoop of your favorite vanilla or strawberry protein powder to the mix. You may need to add an extra splash of milk (about 2 to 3 tablespoons) to maintain the creamy consistency, as protein powder will thicken it considerably.
- Variation: Vegan and Dairy Free Delight. This recipe is easily made vegan. Use a plant based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy free alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt. Ensure you use maple syrup instead of honey. The result is just as creamy and delicious.
- Variation: Strawberry Shortcake Twist. For a breakfast that tastes just like our family’s favorite easy strawberry shortcake cups recipe, add a layer of crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers at the bottom of the jar before adding the oat mixture. When you serve it, top with a dollop of coconut whipped cream. It’s an extra special treat for a weekend morning.
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about these Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats is that they are a complete and satisfying meal all on their own. It’s a perfectly balanced breakfast in a jar, ready to grab and go. However, if you have a little more time, especially on a relaxed weekend morning, you can turn this simple breakfast into a beautiful and more elaborate spread. At our house, we love to set up a small “toppings bar” so everyone can customize their own bowl. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy breakfast as a family. Presenting the oats in different ways can also make them feel like a brand new experience each time you have them. Think about textures and complementary flavors that will elevate the creamy oats and sweet strawberries.
For a daily breakfast, a few simple toppings are all you need. A handful of fresh, sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of crunchy granola, and a few toasted almond slivers can add wonderful texture and freshness. A small dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream on top can make it feel extra luxurious. But for a weekend brunch, why not expand? Consider serving the oats in pretty glass bowls alongside a platter of other breakfast treats. It pairs beautifully with something savory, like a fluffy spinach and feta quiche, to balance the sweetness. You could also serve it as part of a larger sweets table, alongside our smores overnight oats recipe for a fun oats duo. For a truly special occasion, create a brunch board featuring the overnight oats, fresh fruit, a selection of pastries, and perhaps some savory mini muffins. It’s all about making the meal an experience, a moment to savor and enjoy together.
Storage & Reheating for Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats
These oats are designed for easy meal prep. To store, portion the mixture into individual airtight containers or mason jars and seal them tightly. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep in mind that the longer they sit, the softer the oats will become, and the strawberry flavor will continue to infuse the mixture. I find they are at their absolute best on days 1 and 2, but they are still perfectly delicious on day 4.
One of the biggest perks of this recipe is that it’s meant to be eaten cold! No reheating is required. Simply take a jar from the fridge, give it a stir, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy. This makes it the ultimate convenient breakfast for busy mornings, a post workout snack, or even a healthy dessert.
FAQ about Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you absolutely can! Frozen strawberries work very well. For the best results, I recommend thawing them first and draining any excess liquid so your oats don’t become watery. You can then mash and use them just like fresh ones.
Is this Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s a fantastic healthy breakfast recipe. It’s rich in fiber from the oats, which aids digestion and keeps you full. The Greek yogurt provides a great source of protein, and the chia seeds are packed with omega 3 fatty acids and even more fiber. The strawberries offer a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.
Can I use steel cut oats instead of rolled oats?
I don’t recommend using steel cut oats for this no cook, overnight method as they will remain very chewy and have a slightly raw texture. They require cooking to become palatable. If you only have steel cut oats, it’s best to cook them first and then chill them before using them in a similar recipe.
Why are my oats too runny or too thick?
The consistency of overnight oats comes down to the ratio of liquid to oats and chia seeds. If your oats are too runny, it’s likely because you added too much milk or your strawberries were extra juicy. Next time, reduce the milk slightly. If they are too thick, you can stir in an extra splash of milk before serving until it reaches your desired creamy texture.
Final Thoughts on Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats
From my kitchen to yours, I hope this recipe brings a little bit of ease and a lot of joy to your mornings. Cooking for me has always been about creating memories and sharing love, and this simple breakfast is a perfect example of that philosophy. It’s proof that you don’t need a lot of time to make something special for your family.
If you try these Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats, I would be thrilled to hear what you think! Please leave a comment below and let me know how you customized it. And don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorite breakfast board on Pinterest! For more family friendly recipes and kitchen stories, be sure to subscribe to the Mister Recipes newsletter.
Strawberries Cream Overnight Oats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and hull the fresh strawberries. In a bowl, add 1 cup of diced strawberries and mash with a fork until juices release, creating a chunky puree. Set aside.
- In a large bowl or directly in a jar, combine the milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and optional cream cheese. Whisk vigorously until smooth and creamy.
- Add the rolled oats and chia seeds to the creamy mixture. Stir thoroughly until oats and chia are fully submerged and no dry clumps remain.
- Gently fold in the mashed strawberry mixture to create swirls. Add remaining diced strawberries and stir lightly. Divide into 4 mason jars.
- Seal jars tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow oats to thicken.
- Stir and serve cold, topped with extra strawberries, granola, or yogurt.
