Description
Mornings can be chaotic, but with a little planning, you can enjoy a breakfast that feels indulgent and nourishing all at once. Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats bring together the sweetness of ripe strawberries and the creaminess of Greek yogurt, creating a meal that’s as delicious as it is good for you. This make-ahead recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick, satisfying start to your day.
The combination of juicy strawberries and creamy oats is reminiscent of classic summer desserts but crafted in a way that fits seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re someone who loves meal prep, a parent juggling a hectic schedule, or simply someone who values a flavorful, nutritious breakfast, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can whip up a batch of these dreamy oats with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups old-fashioned oats
- 1½ cups milk (choose dairy or a plant-based option like almond, oat, or soy milk)
- 1 cup strawberry Greek yogurt (or vanilla if you prefer a more neutral base)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (for thickening and added nutrition)
- ¾ cup diced strawberries (fresh or frozen works beautifully)
- Optional: 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (for an extra protein boost)
- Optional: ¼–½ cup water (if the mixture feels too thick after mixing)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups of old-fashioned oats, 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, and, if using, 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly. - Add Wet Ingredients:
Pour in 1½ cups of milk and 1 cup of strawberry Greek yogurt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the oats and chia seeds are fully coated in the liquid. - Fold in the Strawberries:
Gently fold in ¾ cup of diced strawberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture. If you’re using frozen strawberries, there’s no need to thaw them—they’ll soften overnight as they meld with the other ingredients. - Adjust Consistency:
If the mixture looks too thick, add ¼–½ cup of water and stir again. The oats and chia seeds will absorb liquid as they sit, so it’s okay if the mixture feels a little runny at this stage. - Refrigerate Overnight:
Transfer the mixture into individual mason jars, bowls, or an airtight container. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This allows the oats to soften and the flavors to meld together. - Serve and Enjoy:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they’ve thickened too much, add a splash of milk to loosen them up. For an extra touch of indulgence, top with additional diced strawberries, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of honey.
Notes
- Consistency Preference: If you like your oats on the thicker side, use less liquid. For a creamier texture, add more milk or water as needed.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Depending on the sweetness of your strawberries and yogurt, you may want to add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the mixture.
- Chia Seeds Optional: Chia seeds help thicken the oats and add a dose of healthy omega-3s, but you can leave them out if you prefer a looser texture.