Save These strawberry overnight oats combine old-fashioned rolled oats with fresh diced strawberries, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds for a satisfying breakfast. The mixture soaks overnight, creating a creamy texture without any cooking required. Each serving delivers 11 grams of protein and takes just 10 minutes to prepare the night before.
I used to be that person rushing around at 6 AM, trying to assemble something resembling breakfast while already running five minutes late. Then my sister dropped off a jar of these oats at my door during a particularly chaotic week, and I opened it the next morning to find this perfectly creamy, slightly sweet concoction waiting for me like a gift from past-me to present-me.
Last summer I made these for a camping trip with friends, prepping five jars in my tiny kitchen the night before we left. Nothing beats wrapping your hands around a cold jar of creamy oats while someone else starts the camp coffee, watching the mist lift off the lake through the trees.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: These hold their texture better than instant oats, which can turn into mush overnight
- Milk: Dairy milk makes it creamiest, but oat milk surprisingly keeps the texture lovely
- Greek yogurt: This is what transforms the mixture from watery to luxurious and thick
- Chia seeds: They plump up overnight and give each spoonful this satisfying little pop
- Honey or maple syrup: Start with one tablespoon and taste in the morning, you can always add more
- Vanilla extract: Do not skip this, it is what makes it taste like a treat instead of healthy gruel
- Fresh strawberries: They soften beautifully and release their juices into the oats overnight
Instructions
- Mix your base:
- Dump everything except the strawberries into a bowl or jar and stir until the chia seeds are not clumped together at the bottom anymore
- Add the berries:
- Fold in the diced strawberries gently so they do not turn to mush, just enough to distribute them throughout
- Wait patiently:
- Cover your container and stick it in the fridge for at least six hours, though eight is even better
- Morning check:
- Give it a stir and add a splash of milk if it looks too thick, then add your toppings and eat straight from the jar if no one is watching
Save My three year old nephew tried these last month and immediately asked if he could have breakfast again, which is basically the highest review I have ever received from anyone.
Make It Yours
I have switched out the strawberries for peaches in August and felt like a genius. Frozen berries work too, just fold them in frozen and they will thaw overnight into these pretty swirls.
Jar Wisdom
Mason jars are great but any container with a lid works perfectly. I often use repurposed pasta sauce jars because they have wider mouths, which means less drama getting those last bites out.
Batch Like a Pro
Sundays have become my oat prep day while the coffee brews. I line up four jars and make breakfast for half the week in under ten minutes.
- Double the recipe and portion into individual jars for grab and go mornings
- Add the toppings right before eating so nuts stay crunchy
- These last up to three days in the fridge, though the strawberries get softer each day
Save There is something profoundly satisfying about opening the fridge and seeing breakfast waiting for you, ready and patient.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long do overnight oats last?
-
Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep. The texture may become softer over time as the oats continue absorbing liquid.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries?
-
Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them slightly before adding, or mix them in frozen—they'll release moisture as they thaw, creating extra sweetness throughout the oats.
- → What milk works best?
-
Any milk works beautifully. Dairy milk provides creaminess, while almond, oat, or coconut milk add subtle flavor variations. Choose based on your preference and dietary needs.
- → Can I make these vegan?
-
Absolutely. Use plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt and swap honey for maple syrup. The texture remains creamy and delicious while being completely dairy-free.
- → Why are my oats too thick in the morning?
-
Oats absorb liquid overnight, so thickness varies. Simply stir in a splash of milk or water in the morning to reach your desired consistency. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust as needed.
- → Do I need to cook the oats?
-
No cooking required. The overnight soaking process softens the oats and makes them digestible. The cold preparation method preserves nutrients and creates a unique creamy texture.
