Overnight Oats With Strawberries

Name: Overnight Oats With Strawberries
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and overnight oats with strawberries have become my go-to! Every night, I prepare this easy and nutritious dish, and by morning, I’m greeted with a creamy and delicious treat. It’s a simple recipe that combines oats, yogurt, milk, and ripe strawberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This breakfast not only fuels my morning but also keeps me satisfied until lunch. Plus, the convenience of making it the night before makes it a real winner for busy days!

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:22:10.086Z

When I first made overnight oats, I was skeptical about the texture, but I was pleasantly surprised. The next morning, I discovered that the oats soaked up all the delicious flavors from the milk and yogurt, becoming wonderfully creamy. I added fresh strawberries for a burst of sweetness, making every spoonful delightful!

Over time, I experimented with different toppings, but I've found that strawberries pair perfectly with the oats. Their natural sweetness and slightly tart flavor complement the creaminess, and they make the breakfast more refreshing. This recipe is versatile, so get creative with your favorite fruits!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and satisfying texture that keeps you full.
Fresh strawberries add a burst of fruity goodness.
Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go breakfasts.

      

The Role of Oats in Your Breakfast

Rolled oats are the foundation of this overnight oats recipe, providing not only texture but also essential nutrients. They are rich in soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and keep you feeling full longer. When mixed with liquids, rolled oats absorb moisture and expand, creating a creamy base that's both satisfying and nutritious. It's important to use rolled oats instead of instant oats, as the latter can become mushy and lose their appealing bite overnight.

Soaking the oats overnight allows them to soften without cooking, giving you a delightful chewy consistency by morning. This method not only enhances digestibility but also helps release the oats' natural sweetness. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can let them soak a little longer, up to 12 hours. Experiment with the soaking time to find your preferred consistency!

Customizing Your Overnight Oats

One of the best aspects of overnight oats is their versatility. While strawberries are a delicious addition, consider mixing in other fruits like bananas, blueberries, or even diced apples for a seasonal twist. You can also interchange the Greek yogurt for plant-based options like almond or coconut yogurt if you're aiming for a dairy-free recipe. This flexibility allows you to cater to different dietary preferences while keeping your breakfast exciting.

Another way to customize your oats is by adding seeds or nuts, such as chia seeds or walnuts, which provide healthy fats and additional protein. Just remember that if you add these extra ingredients, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly to ensure the oats maintain their creamy texture. I love sprinkling a few chia seeds on top before refrigerating; they swell overnight and add a pleasant crunch in the morning.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Mix all ingredients well for a delicious start to your day!

Instructions

Prepare the Oats

In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and milk. Stir in honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract if using.

Add Strawberries

Fold in the chopped strawberries gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Refrigerate Overnight

Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or jars, cover, and refrigerate overnight (or at least for 4 hours).

Serve and Enjoy

In the morning, stir the oats and enjoy them straight from the jar or add more fresh strawberries on top!

Enjoy your wholesome and delicious breakfast!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in a spoonful of nut butter or sprinkle some nuts on top before serving.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Storing overnight oats is a breeze. Use airtight containers or mason jars to keep your oats fresh. They can easily last in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them an excellent option for meal prepping on Sundays. Prepare multiple jars with different flavor combinations at once, and you'll have a week's worth of breakfasts ready to grab and go each morning.

If you find yourself short on time in the morning, these oats can also be enjoyed cold or heated. If you prefer a warm breakfast, simply microwave the oats for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can change the texture. If you add any toppings like nuts or additional fruit, wait until after reheating to avoid them getting too soft or soggy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your overnight oats turn out too thick, it might be due to insufficient liquid or an extended soaking time. Simply add a splash more milk or yogurt in the morning to achieve your desired consistency. On the other hand, if they are too thin, consider mixing in a tablespoon more of oats or chia seeds before refrigerating, which will help absorb excess liquid and thicken the mixture.

Another common issue is uneven flavor distribution. To ensure your oats are evenly sweetened and flavored, mix them thoroughly in the initial preparation. Gently folding in the strawberries will help maintain their structure, but ensure that they are well-distributed in the mixture to avoid the possibility of some bites being bland.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it's best to let them thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them to the oats.

→ How long can I store overnight oats?

You can store overnight oats in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it great for meal prep.

→ Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based yogurt and milk to keep it vegan-friendly.

→ What other fruits can I add?

Feel free to experiment with other fruits like bananas, blueberries, or peaches for different flavor combinations!