Strawberry Overnight Oats are a creamy and fruity breakfast that’s super easy to prepare! Just mix rolled oats, milk, yogurt, and fresh strawberries in a jar.
I love waking up to find breakfast ready and waiting for me in the fridge. These oats taste great cold and keep me full for the morning—plus, they’re so yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats because they soak up the liquid well. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work, but they’ll be softer. Steel-cut oats aren’t recommended as they won’t soften adequately overnight.
Milk: You can use any milk you prefer—dairy, almond, oat, or coconut milk all work great. For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk or a nut milk. Unsweetened options are always a good choice if you’re watching sugar intake.
Yogurt: Regular yogurt adds creaminess and a little tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want more protein. If dairy is an issue, try coconut or almond yogurt for a dairy-free option. I usually go for vanilla yogurt to add flavor without extra sweeteners.
Chia Seeds: These are optional but highly recommended! They help absorb liquid, thickening the oats and adding fiber. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can skip them or use ground flaxseed instead for similar benefits.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the star here! If they’re out of season, feel free to use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them before adding them to your oats. Other berries like blueberries or raspberries can also be swapped in for variety.
Sweeteners: Honey or maple syrup adds natural sweetness. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference. For a sugar-free option, consider using mashed bananas or a sugar-free sweetener.
How Do I Make the Perfect Overnight Oats Texture?
Getting the right consistency for overnight oats is key! Here’s how to achieve that creamy and delightful texture:
- Combine ingredients and stir: Once you’ve mixed the oats, milk, yogurt, and sweeteners, stir well to ensure everything is blended. This helps in even soaking.
- Soaking time matters: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The oats need enough time to absorb the liquid and soften.
- Adjust consistency: In the morning, if your mixture is thicker than you like, add a splash of milk. Stir and adjust until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Top it off: Garnish with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of oats right before serving. This adds a beautiful presentation and a bit of texture.
This simple approach will help you create overnight oats that are not only tasty but also enjoyable in every bite!
How to Make Strawberry Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (any type: dairy, almond, oat, etc.)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional for texture and nutrition)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight, which is when the magic happens! So set it up before bed, and wake up to a delicious breakfast waiting for you.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized jar or bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chia seeds if you’re using them, and a pinch of salt. This will ensure they’re evenly distributed before adding the liquids.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the milk, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together well until it’s nicely combined—this will help the oats to soak evenly.
3. Fold in the Strawberries:
Gently add the chopped strawberries into the oat mixture. Gently folding them ensures the strawberries stay intact while mixing.
4. Seal and Refrigerate:
Cover the jar with a lid or wrap the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This gives the oats time to absorb all the flavors and soften up for a perfect breakfast treat!
5. Enjoy Your Oats!
The next morning, give your oats a good stir! If they’re thicker than you like, add a splash of milk to reach your preferred consistency. Top with a few extra strawberry slices and maybe a sprinkle of oats for a nice touch. Now, dig in and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Overnight Oats!
Feel free to customize your overnight oats with nuts, seeds, or other fruits you love. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for trying new combinations!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Strawberries?
Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, diced mango, or even banana slices. Just keep in mind that some fruits, like bananas, brown quickly, so add them just before serving for the best appearance.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and dairy-free yogurt. Maple syrup is already a vegan-friendly sweetener, so you’re all set!
How Long Do Leftover Overnight Oats Last?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container. Before eating, give them a good stir and add a bit of milk if they’ve thickened up too much.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is easily scalable. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, and prepare them in larger containers or separate jars. They’re perfect for meal prepping!
