Strawberry Overnight Oats are a fantastic breakfast that you can prepare ahead of time. Just mix oats, milk, yogurt, and fresh strawberries, and let it chill overnight in the fridge.
You wake up to a tasty treat that’s ready to go! I love adding a sprinkle of honey on top for extra sweetness. Who doesn’t want a delicious breakfast waiting for them? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These are perfect for overnight oats due to their ability to soak up liquid while keeping a nice texture. If you have quick oats, they will work but may become mushy.
Milk: Any type of milk works here! Almond, oat, coconut, or regular milk all provide different flavors. If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, opt for a plant-based milk.
Yogurt: I love using plain yogurt for creaminess and tang, but Greek yogurt adds more protein. For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or almond yogurt.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give the best flavor. If they’re out of season or you want variety, try using frozen strawberries (just let them thaw) or other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
Honey or maple syrup: Sweetness is adjustable! You can also use agave syrup or leave it out completely if your strawberries are sweet enough.
How Do I Make Sure My Oats Are Perfectly Soaked?
The key to great overnight oats is the soaking process. Proper soaking ensures the oats absorb the liquids and become soft while retaining some chewiness. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl or jar. Make sure the oats are fully immersed in the liquid.
- Cover it tightly to prevent any odors from your fridge getting in.
- Let it sit overnight, but at least 6 hours is a must. The longer they soak, the creamier they become!
In the morning, if it’s too thick for your liking, just add a splash more milk and give it a stir. Enjoy your easy, nutritious breakfast! 🌟
Strawberry Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/3 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (plus extra for topping)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After that, you’ll need to let it chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight. In the morning, you can have a delicious and healthy breakfast ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium mixing bowl or a jar. In it, combine the rolled oats, milk of your choice, and yogurt. This forms the base of your overnight oats.
2. Add Flavor and Sweetness:
Next, add the diced fresh strawberries into the mix, along with honey or maple syrup if you want it a bit sweeter. Then, add the vanilla extract for a lovely flavor boost and a pinch of salt. Stir everything well until it’s fully combined.
3. Refrigerate to Soak:
Cover your bowl or jar tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight if you can. This soaking time is crucial for the oats to absorb the liquids and become creamy.
4. Stir and Adjust the Consistency:
In the morning, take your oats out of the fridge. Give them a good stir. If they feel too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk to loosen them up to your desired consistency.
5. Top and Serve:
Now it’s time to make it pretty! Top your oats with additional fresh strawberry slices and, if you’d like, a sprinkle of rolled oats for added texture. It’s ready to serve!
6. Enjoy Your Breakfast!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious strawberry overnight oats! They’re a perfect balance of nutrition and taste, giving you a great start to your day. 😊
Can I Use Different Kinds of Milk?
Absolutely! You can use any milk you prefer—dairy, almond, oat, coconut, or soy milk all work well. Choose what you enjoy or have on hand!
How Can I Make These Oats Dairy-Free?
To make the overnight oats dairy-free, simply use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and substitute regular yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Both work beautifully!
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Strawberries?
No worries! You can use frozen strawberries instead. Just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before mixing them in. You can also switch it up with other fruits like blueberries, bananas, or peaches!
How Long Do Leftover Oats Last?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container. If they thicken up too much, add a little splash of milk to refresh them when you’re ready to eat!
