These Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats are a tasty breakfast treat! Creamy yogurt, oats, and sweet strawberries come together for a smooth and satisfying meal that’s ready when you are.
It’s like having dessert for breakfast, and who doesn’t love that? I like to top mine with extra strawberries and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These oats are essential for their chewy texture. Quick oats can be used too, but they might make the mixture a bit mushy. If you’re gluten-sensitive, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Greek yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. You can use regular yogurt if you want a lighter option. Dairy-free yogurt works too for a vegan version.
Milk: Use any type of milk you prefer—dairy, almond, soy, or oat milk are all great choices. The type of milk can slightly change the flavor, so pick your favorite!
Cream cheese: For that classic cheesecake taste, go for regular or reduced-fat cream cheese. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Sweetener: Honey adds a natural sweetness, but feel free to use maple syrup for a vegan option. You could also use a sugar substitute if you’re cutting sugar.
Fresh strawberries: Sliced strawberries give a fresh taste. You can substitute with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, but adjust the sweetness as needed.
How Do I Get My Oats to Soak Up Flavor Perfectly?
The key to delicious overnight oats is letting them soak long enough for the oats to absorb the liquid and flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix Well: Combine all ingredients thoroughly to ensure the oats are coated with the milk and yogurt mixture.
- Refrigerate: Seal your container well before refrigerating. Giving it at least 4 hours or overnight is best for maximum flavor absorption.
- Stir Before Serving: When you’re ready to eat, give the oats a good stir to reincorporate everything. This helps to blend the flavors and improves texture.
Following these steps will guarantee your oats are creamy and bursting with the delightful taste of strawberries and cheesecake!
Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind: dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons granola or crushed graham crackers (for topping)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare and should be refrigerated overnight or for at least 4 hours. So, you can whip it up before bed, and it’ll be ready for you in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Base:
In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend everything until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps of cream cheese remain.
2. Mix in the Oats:
Now, add the rolled oats, milk, and a pinch of salt to the creamy mixture. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined, making sure the oats are coated in the yogurt mixture.
3. Add the Strawberries:
Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, taking care to save a few slices for later. This will add a fresh flavor and a pop of color to your dish.
4. Refrigerate:
Transfer the mixture into a jar or an airtight container. Seal it up and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill overnight (or at least 4 hours) to allow the oats to soak up all the delicious flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, give the oats a good stir. Top with the leftover strawberry slices and sprinkle granola or crushed graham crackers on top to add a delightful crunch. Enjoy your chilled, creamy strawberry cheesecake oats straight from the jar!
This no-cook breakfast is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it a delightful treat to kickstart your day!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can substitute them with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or bananas. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make vegan strawberry cheesecake overnight oats, use plant-based yogurt and cream cheese, and opt for maple syrup as the sweetener. Choose a plant-based milk like almond, coconut, or oat milk to keep it entirely vegan.
Can I Prepare These Oats for Meal Prep?
Yes! These overnight oats can be made for meal prep. You can prepare several servings in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just wait to add toppings until you’re ready to eat for the best texture and flavor.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Greek yogurt alone can work too, but the flavor will be less cheesecake-like!
