These Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats are a tasty and fun way to start your day. With sweet strawberries, creamy yogurt, and oats, they’re both healthy and delicious!
Making them is super easy—just mix, chill overnight, and enjoy! I love how I can prep them in the evening and have a quick breakfast waiting for me in the morning. Yum! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats because they absorb the liquid well. If you have quick oats, those can work, but they’ll be a bit softer. Steel-cut oats aren’t recommended here as they take longer to soften.
Almond Milk: Almond milk adds a nice nutty flavor, but feel free to use any milk like cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk, depending on your preference. Just keep the ratio the same for best results.
Greek Yogurt: I love the creaminess of Greek yogurt, but you could swap it for regular yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt if you prefer. The thickness adds a nice texture, so choose one you enjoy!
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds thicken the mixture and add healthy omega-3s. If you don’t have them, you can skip them or use ground flaxseed for a similar texture and health benefits.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners work well! You can also use agave syrup or even mashed banana for a natural sweetness. Adjust the amount to match your taste.
Fresh Strawberries: Strawberries are key here, but if they’re out of season, you can substitute other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Frozen berries are fine too; just let them thaw and drain excess water.
How Do I Properly Mix My Overnight Oats?
Mixing your overnight oats properly sets you up for a smooth and tasty breakfast. Here’s a quick guide to get it just right:
- Start by combining all your base ingredients (oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, sweetener, and vanilla) in a large mixing bowl.
- Use a whisk or fork to stir everything together. Make sure there are no clumps of dry oats or yogurt.
- Once mixed well, gently fold in the diced strawberries to keep them intact and flavorful.
This technique ensures that every jar has an even distribution of ingredients, making each bite delicious!
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberries:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- Extra strawberries for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to refrigerate the oats overnight or for at least 4 hours, so plan ahead! This is a great make-ahead breakfast, ready to enjoy in the morning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well blended and smooth. Make sure there are no dry clumps of oats left!
2. Add the Strawberries:
Gently fold in the diced strawberries into the oat mixture. Use a spatula to stir, being careful not to mash the strawberries too much. You want them evenly spread throughout the mixture so every bite is delicious!
3. Portion and Refrigerate:
Divide the mixture evenly into serving jars or containers. If you have lids, seal them tightly. This will keep your oats fresh in the fridge. Place the jars in the refrigerator to chill overnight or for at least 4 hours. This waiting time lets the oats soak up all the yummy flavors!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your oats, take them out of the fridge. Give the mixture a good stir to combine everything again. Top each serving with some extra diced strawberries for a pretty garnish. Serve cold and dig in! Enjoy your delicious, nutritious Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats!
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can technically use steel-cut oats, they require longer soaking time and will have a chewier texture. If you want to use them, consider soaking the oats overnight in the almond milk without other ingredients, or precook them slightly before mixing.
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt for a creamier texture or plant-based yogurt if you prefer a dairy-free option. Just be aware that the flavor and consistency might slightly change.
How to Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Store any leftover oats in their sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or gently warmed in the microwave. Just add a splash of milk if they seem too thick!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup for Sweetness?
If you’re looking for an alternative sweetener, agave syrup or stevia work great. You can also use mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce for a natural sweetness and added flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your sweetness preference!
