Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats are a fresh and easy way to start your day. This dish combines creamy oats soaked overnight with juicy strawberries and a little bit of sweetness that feels just right. The oats get soft and fluffy, and the strawberries add a burst of bright flavor that makes every spoonful enjoyable.
I love how simple these overnight oats are to prepare the night before—just mix everything, pop it in the fridge, and wake up to a ready-made breakfast. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you don’t have much time but still want something tasty and nourishing. I usually add a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of honey to give it an extra little touch.
Eating strawberries and cream oats feels like a little treat but without any fuss. I sometimes bring a jar with me to work or use them for a quick snack, and it always hits the spot. If you like your mornings sweet and smooth, this is a lovely way to make oats something to look forward to.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best as they soak up the liquid nicely while still keeping a bit of texture. You can use quick oats, but they might become mushier overnight.
Milk: I prefer dairy milk for creaminess, but almond, oat, or soy milk are great if you want it dairy-free. Just pick unsweetened versions if you’re watching sugar.
Yogurt: Adds creaminess and tang. Plain or vanilla yogurt works well. You can swap Greek yogurt for a thicker, protein-packed option or dairy-free yogurt if needed.
Strawberries: Fresh is best for bright flavor. Feel free to use frozen, but thaw them first to avoid watering down your oats. Other berries like blueberries or raspberries also work well.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup adds natural sweetness. Adjust the amount to your taste or skip it if your yogurt is already sweetened.
How Do You Make Overnight Oats Creamy and Delicious?
Making overnight oats creamy is all about letting the oats absorb the liquid slowly. Here’s a simple way to get it right:
- Mix rolled oats with milk and yogurt to start. Yogurt gives richness and a creamy texture.
- Add chia seeds if you like a thicker texture, but this is optional.
- Sweeten gently with honey or maple syrup and add vanilla for flavor depth.
- Fold in fresh strawberries last to keep them fresh and bright.
- Leave the mixture in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight so oats soften fully.
- In the morning, stir the oats. If too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
For extra creaminess, use a full-fat yogurt, and choose milk based on your preference. Experiment with toppings like shredded coconut or nuts to add crunch and balance the soft oats.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl or large jar – I recommend a jar because it’s easy to store and makes serving simple.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing all the ingredients smoothly and evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amount of oats, milk, and sweetener.
- Knife and chopping board – for cutting fresh strawberries or other fruits you want to add.
- Refrigerator – to soak and chill your oats overnight; it’s where the magic happens!
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries instead of strawberries for different fruit flavors.
- Stir in chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top after soaking for crunch and texture.
- Add a spoonful of nut butter, like almond or peanut, for extra richness and flavor.
- Mix in a dash of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract for a warm, cozy note.
Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup plain or vanilla yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped, plus extra for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this dish only takes about 5-10 minutes. Then, let it chill and soak overnight — at least 6 hours — in the fridge to get that creamy, soft texture. It’s a perfect make-ahead breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by combining the rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds (if using), honey, and vanilla extract in a bowl or jar. Stir everything together well to make sure it’s evenly mixed.
2. Add Strawberries:
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, reserving a few slices to use later as a pretty topping.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your jar or bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Put it in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight. This lets the oats soak up the liquids and flavors fully.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, give the oats a good stir. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of milk and mix again until it’s just right. Top with the reserved strawberry slices and a sprinkle of oats or shredded coconut if you like. Enjoy your creamy and refreshing breakfast straight from the jar or in a bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen strawberries completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing them in to avoid watery oats.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Overnight oats keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container or jar to maintain freshness and flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and a dairy-free yogurt alternative, then sweeten with maple syrup or another vegan sweetener.
Is It Okay to Skip the Chia Seeds?
Definitely! Chia seeds add texture and nutrients but aren’t necessary. The oats will still soak up the liquid and become creamy without them.