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This strawberries and cream overnight oats recipe combines the nostalgic flavor of creamy oats with a modern twist of dairy-free ingredients and vegan protein. It’s designed to be a convenient yet nourishing breakfast that you can prepare ahead of time, making busy mornings easier and tastier.
I first made this during a hectic week when breakfast time was scarce, and now it’s a regular in my fridge. My family especially loves the sweet and tangy berries with the creamy oats, and it keeps everyone satisfied through busy mornings.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Old fashioned oats: the base for creamy texture and slow digesting energy
- Chia seeds: add thickness and omega-3 benefits make sure to get fresh seeds for best results
- Vegan vanilla protein powder: optional but adds protein and flavor pick a clean label without fillers
- Dairy-free milk such as unsweetened soy, almond, or oat milk: use your favorite for creaminess unsweetened varieties prevent added sugars
- Pure maple syrup: natural sweetener add more or less to taste
- Frozen strawberries: convenient and just as nutritious as fresh look for berries without added sugar
- Pure vanilla extract: enhances the creamy, sweet flavor
- Dairy-free yogurt: for topping adds richness and tang without dairy choose a creamy variety for best mouthfeel
How to Make It
- Sift together the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, and protein powder if using. Whisk well to ensure even distribution and prevent clumping.
- Add liquids and sweetener:
- Pour in the dairy-free milk along with one tablespoon of maple syrup and the vanilla extract. Stir gently until everything is incorporated into a smooth mixture.
- Refrigerate to thicken the oats:
- Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for 2 to 3 hours or overnight. This resting time lets the oats soak up the liquid and the chia seeds to swell, creating creamy overnight oats.
- Prepare the strawberries:
- Place frozen strawberries in a microwave-safe bowl and heat them on high for two minutes. After that, cut the berries into smaller pieces to release their juices. Microwave again for two to three minutes, stopping every 30 seconds to check and stir until bubbling and reduced by about a quarter. Taste and add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup if needed. Allow this to cool and chill before assembling.
- Assemble the jars:
- Spoon two to three tablespoons of the thickened oats into each jar. Add a layer of the cooked strawberries, then top with more oats. Finish with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt. Repeat the layering with remaining oats and strawberry mixture.
- Store and serve:
- Makes about two jars of eight ounces each or four jars of four ounces each. Keep them covered in the fridge and consume within five days for best freshness.
The star in this recipe for me is the slow-reduced strawberries. They add a natural sweetness and slightly tart contrast to the creamy oats which reminds me of my grandmother's strawberry preserves she made every summer. This dish feels like a wholesome hug in a jar whenever I need a pick-me-up.
Flavor Boosters
Top your overnight oats with nuts or seeds for crunch and extra nutrition. Fresh sliced bananas or a drizzle of almond butter pairs beautifully with the strawberries. For a midday snack, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for warmth and depth.
Serving Suggestions
Top your overnight oats with nuts or seeds for crunch and extra nutrition. Fresh sliced bananas or a drizzle of almond butter pairs beautifully with the strawberries. For a midday snack, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for warmth and depth.
Creative Twists
Use fresh strawberries in late spring and summer when they are in season for a fresher taste. To adapt for colder months, switch strawberries for stewed apples or pears with warming spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Swap out vanilla for almond extract to complement autumnal flavors.
This overnight oats recipe is a wholesome and flexible breakfast solution perfect for busy mornings and any season.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use regular milk instead of dairy-free options?
Yes, regular milk can be substituted according to your preference, but dairy-free milk enhances the lightness and suits those avoiding dairy.
- → How long should the oats chill to thicken properly?
Chilling the mixture for 2-3 hours helps the oats absorb the liquid fully, resulting in a creamy, thick texture.
- → What purpose does microwaving the strawberries serve?
Microwaving softens the frozen strawberries, reduces excess liquid, and intensifies their natural sweetness for better layering.
- → Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Yes, preparing it ahead allows flavors to meld well, making it a convenient and tasty breakfast option.
- → Is there a recommended type of maple syrup to use?
Pure maple syrup is best as it adds natural sweetness and complements the other flavors without overpowering them.