Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats are a sweet and simple way to start your day. This dish combines creamy oats soaked overnight with fresh strawberries and a touch of sweetness that feels like a gentle morning hug. The oats become soft and fluffy, soaking up all the milky goodness, while the strawberries add a burst of fresh, fruity flavor.
I love making this recipe because it’s so easy to prepare the night before. In the morning, I just grab my jar from the fridge, and breakfast is ready to go—no cooking needed! It’s a perfect breakfast for busy mornings or when you want something healthy but satisfying. Plus, you can customize it by adding a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of honey if you like a little extra crunch or sweetness.
One of my favorite things about these overnight oats is how refreshing they feel, especially on warmer days. The cool, creamy oats with juicy strawberries make breakfast feel special without much effort. I also enjoy packing it for a quick lunch on the go—it’s like having a little treat that keeps me full and happy till my next meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These are perfect for overnight oats because they soak up liquid well but keep a nice texture. If you don’t have rolled oats, old-fashioned oats work too. Avoid instant oats—they get too mushy.
Milk and yogurt: I use a mix of milk and plain Greek yogurt for creaminess and protein. You can swap dairy milk for any plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy) and use flavored or non-dairy yogurt if you prefer.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a bright, juicy flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen berries work fine—just thaw them before mixing to avoid watering down the oats.
Chia seeds: These thicken the oats and add fiber and omega-3s. They’re optional, so if you don’t have them, just leave them out or replace with ground flaxseeds.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness but you can skip it if your yogurt is already sweetened or if you want less sugar.
How Do You Get Creamy, No-Mushy Overnight Oats?
The key is how you mix and soak the oats:
- Use rolled oats for the best texture—they absorb liquid but stay chewy.
- Mix oats well with milk and yogurt so each oat is coated. This helps them soften evenly overnight.
- Add chia seeds if you want a thicker, pudding-like texture, but be careful not to add too many or the oats get gelatinous.
- Let the oats rest in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight—this gives the oats time to soak up the liquid and soften without cooking.
- If the oats seem thick in the morning, just stir in a splash more milk to loosen to your liking.
- Gently fold in fresh strawberries rather than blending or mashing them too much, so you get fresh bursts of flavor and texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Jar or container with a lid – I prefer a mason jar because it’s easy to shake and store leftovers in the fridge.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – makes stirring the ingredients together simple and mess-free.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate portioning of oats, liquids, and sweeteners.
- Small knife and cutting board – to slice the strawberries neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries for different fruity flavors.
- Add a spoonful of nut butter like almond or peanut butter for extra creaminess and protein.
- Stir in chopped nuts or granola before serving for crunch and texture.
- Mix in a dash of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract to give it a warm, cozy flavor twist.
Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, e.g., almond or oat milk)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or vanilla yogurt
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for thickness and nutrition)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 5 minutes of prep time in the evening. Then, you’ll refrigerate it overnight for at least 6 hours to let the oats soak and soften. In the morning, just a minute to stir and add toppings, and your breakfast is ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients
In a bowl or a mason jar, add the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds (if using), honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together well until the oats are coated and the ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Add the Strawberries
Gently fold the sliced strawberries into the oat mixture, saving some for the topping. This adds fresh fruity flavor right inside your oats.
3. Refrigerate Overnight
Cover your jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge and let it sit for at least 6 hours or overnight. This gives the oats time to soak up the liquid, becoming soft and creamy without cooking.
4. Serve and Enjoy
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If it’s too thick for you, add a little more milk to loosen it up. Top with the reserved strawberry slices and enjoy your fresh, creamy, and delicious breakfast straight from the fridge. Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor and crunch.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing so your oats don’t get too watery.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Without Yogurt?
Absolutely! You can skip the yogurt and increase the milk slightly to maintain the creamy texture. Using plant-based yogurt is also a great dairy-free option.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats in the Fridge?
Overnight oats stay fresh for up to 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container. Just give them a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead for Multiple Days?
Yes! Prepare individual jars for up to three days in advance. This makes a quick grab-and-go breakfast perfect for busy mornings.