The sun streams through the kitchen window, illuminating a colorful array of breakfast jars that beckon with promise—these are Strawberries & Cream Overnight Oats. This easy recipe takes just minutes to prepare, but you’ll savor its deliciousness for days. It works perfectly because the combination of creamy yogurt and sweet strawberries complements the chewy oats, creating a satisfying morning treat.
This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a nourishing meal ready to go. Make it on Sunday for a week’s worth of breakfasts or a quick snack. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days, making mornings a breeze.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Each bite is a delightful blend of creamy and fruity textures.
- The oats thicken perfectly, giving a satisfying bite that lasts.
- It’s a quick prep, needing just a few minutes of your time.
- A healthy option that keeps you energized throughout the day.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to whip up your delicious overnight oats.
For the Oats
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp vegan vanilla protein powder (optional)
For the Liquid Mixture
- 1 ½ cups dairy-free milk, like unsweetened soy milk, almond milk, or oat milk
- 1-2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Strawberries
- 1 ¼ cups frozen strawberries (see notes for fresh strawberries)
For the Topping
- 5 oz dairy-free yogurt
Consider using fresh strawberries for a vibrant flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Almond milk can be replaced with coconut milk.
- Chia seeds can be swapped for flaxseeds.
- Vegan protein powder is optional but adds protein.
- Use fresh strawberries instead of frozen if preferred.
How to Make It
Here’s how to prepare your Strawberries & Cream Overnight Oats.
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Combine dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, and protein powder if you’re using it. Whisk to combine all the ingredients well.
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Mix in liquids. Stir in the dairy-free milk, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated.
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Refrigerate to thicken. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to let it thicken for about 2-3 hours.
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Prepare the strawberries. Add the frozen strawberries to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 2 minutes. After two minutes, cut the berries into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Microwave for another 2-3 minutes, stopping every 30 seconds, until the mixture is bubbling and the liquid has reduced by about a quarter. Add an additional tablespoon of maple syrup if needed.
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Chill the strawberries. Cover the strawberry mixture and place it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your oats.
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Assemble the jars. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the thickened oats into a jar. Layer on a spoonful of strawberries, then top with more oats. Add a spoonful of dairy-free yogurt on top. Repeat with the remaining oats.
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Store jars. You’ll get about two 8-ounce jars or four 4-ounce jars with this recipe.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in jars for up to 5 days.
Freezer: No, it’s not suitable for freezing.
Reheat: Enjoy chilled; no reheating necessary.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh strawberries for a brighter flavor if available.
- Adjust sweetness with maple syrup based on your preference.
- Let oats sit overnight for optimal texture.
- Experiment with different fruits for variety.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a sprinkle of nuts and seeds for added crunch.
- Enjoy as a quick breakfast or light dessert.
- Serve alongside a smoothie for a balanced meal.
