Strawberry overnight oats
Strawberry overnight oats are a simple and refreshing way to start your day. This dish combines creamy oats soaked overnight with fresh strawberries, a touch of honey or maple syrup,…
By Ava
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Reading time: 5 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Strawberry overnight oats are a simple and refreshing way to start your day. This dish combines creamy oats soaked overnight with fresh strawberries, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a splash of milk. By morning, you’ve got a naturally sweet, soft, and fruity breakfast waiting in your fridge, ready to enjoy without any morning rush.
I love making these the night before because it saves me so much time in the morning, and they taste even better after the flavors have had time to mix together. Adding a handful of chopped strawberries gives it a nice burst of freshness that feels like a little morning treat. Sometimes I like to sprinkle a few seeds or nuts on top just to add a bit of crunch, which makes each bite extra satisfying.
One of my favorite ways to eat strawberry overnight oats is right out of a cute jar, either at home or packed for lunch at work. It feels like a cozy, homemade snack that’s good for you and easy to grab on the go. This recipe is a great way to get into the habit of making breakfasts ahead of time, and it’s always a hit with friends and family too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for the best creamy texture. Quick oats can work but may turn mushy, while steel-cut oats need longer soaking or cooking.
Milk: Any milk works here—dairy, almond, oat, or soy. Choose based on your taste or dietary needs. I like oat milk because it adds a mild sweetness.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein but is optional. For dairy-free, try coconut or almond yogurt instead.
Strawberries: Fresh berries are best to keep that bright flavor. If fresh aren’t available, frozen strawberries work but give a softer texture when thawed.
Sweeteners: Honey or maple syrup adds natural sweetness. Adjust the amount based on your preference or use mashed banana as a gentle sweetener.
How Can I Make My Overnight Oats Creamy and Not Watery?
The trick is in the soaking and ingredients:
- Use rolled oats and add chia seeds to help thicken the mixture as it absorbs liquid overnight.
- Include Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative for extra creaminess.
- Mix everything well before refrigerating to help oats soak evenly.
- Check consistency in the morning; if too thick, add a splash of milk and stir gently.
Give the oats a good stir after soaking to bring all the flavors together. This simple step makes a big difference in texture and taste!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mason jars or airtight containers – perfect for soaking oats overnight and easy to grab on the go.
- Mixing bowl – great for combining ingredients if you prefer not to mix in the jar.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right balance of oats, milk, and sweetener every time.
- Spoon or small whisk – helps mix everything smoothly without clumps.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist that still pairs well with oats.
- Add a spoonful of peanut or almond butter for extra protein and creaminess.
- Stir in cinnamon or vanilla extract to boost flavor without added sugar.
- Top with chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or seeds for a satisfying crunch each morning.
How to Make Strawberry Overnight Oats?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Oats Mixture:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for thickness and nutrition)
- 1-2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For The Topping:
- Sliced strawberries
- Pumpkin seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and chilling overnight for at least 4 to 6 hours. This resting time lets the oats soak up the liquids and flavors, making them creamy and delicious by morning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or a mason jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds. Stir well to mix everything evenly.
2. Add Strawberries and Sweetener:
Fold in the chopped strawberries, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or close the jar tightly with a lid. Place it in the fridge and let it chill for at least 4 to 6 hours, or overnight. This soaking process softens the oats and blends the flavors.
4. Serve Your Oats:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If the texture feels too thick, add a little more milk and stir again. Top with fresh sliced strawberries and a sprinkling of pumpkin seeds to add a nice crunch. Enjoy your refreshing breakfast straight from the jar or in a bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well too! Just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before mixing to avoid excess water making the oats too watery.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Make sure your sweetener is also vegan-friendly.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Store your strawberry overnight oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before eating, and add extra milk if the oats have thickened too much.
Can I Prepare Overnight Oats Without Chia Seeds?
Yes! Chia seeds help thicken the oats, but if you don’t have them, your oats will still be tasty. You might find the texture slightly less thick, so you can let them soak a bit longer for best results.