Overnight Oats With Strawberries And Yogurt

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

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love starting my mornings with a nutritious breakfast, and overnight oats have become my go-to. With this Overnight Oats with Strawberries and Yogurt recipe, I can prepare everything the night before and wake up to a delicious, wholesome meal. The creamy yogurt combines beautifully with the fresh strawberries and the oats, creating a satisfying and filling breakfast. Plus, it takes just a few minutes to assemble, making it perfect for busy mornings.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:17:34.200Z

When I first tried overnight oats, I was skeptical. How could something so simple be satisfying? But after experimenting with different flavors, I found my favorite combination: strawberries and yogurt. The sweetness of the strawberries perfectly balances the creamy yogurt, and soaking the oats overnight helps them absorb all the delicious flavors.

One tip I found particularly helpful was to layer the ingredients properly. By placing the liquid at the bottom, the oats soak in everything evenly, preventing them from becoming too soggy or dry. Trust me; it makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy yogurt adds a delightful tanginess
Fresh strawberries provide a burst of natural sweetness
Convenient make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings

Perfect Oat Consistency

Achieving the right consistency for overnight oats is crucial for a satisfying breakfast. The rolled oats absorb liquid from the yogurt and milk, softening overnight. I recommend letting them soak for at least 6-8 hours to allow for the perfect creamy texture. If you prefer your oats a bit thicker, feel free to adjust the milk volume or reduce the soaking time. Alternatively, if you enjoy a thinner consistency, an extra splash of milk in the morning can help.

Additionally, consider using a combination of both Greek and regular yogurt to play with the creaminess factor. Greek yogurt will yield a thicker mixture, while regular yogurt adds a lighter texture. Mixing the two can achieve a creamy yet smooth base that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries.

Fresh Strawberry Layering

The process of layering strawberries is not just for aesthetics; it also impacts the flavor integration of your overnight oats. By adding the strawberries in layers with the oat mixture, you ensure that each bite has a balanced hint of sweetness from the fruit. The acid in the strawberries also helps cut through the creaminess of the yogurt and oats, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

To enhance the freshness of the strawberries, consider macerating them in a bit of sugar or honey for 15-20 minutes before layering. This technique allows the strawberries to release their juices, creating a delicious syrup that seeps into the oats as they chill, offering an extra layer of flavor and moisture.

Serving Variations

While this recipe is delightful as-is, there are many fun ways to customize your overnight oats. For a crunchier texture, try adding a sprinkle of granola or nuts on top before serving. This contrast can add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall eating experience. You can also experiment with different fruits like blueberries or bananas based on your preference or seasonal availability.

Another exciting option is to incorporate spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, during the mixing step. These spices complement the oats and yogurt beautifully, adding warmth and complexity to the dish. A dash of cocoa powder could even create a decadent chocolate version, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth while still keeping the dish healthy.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Overnight Oats

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

Mix all ingredients well in a jar or bowl. Seal and refrigerate overnight.

Instructions

Combine the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, yogurt, milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well until combined.

Layer the Strawberries

In a jar or container, add half of the oat mixture, then layer half of the sliced strawberries on top. Repeat with the remaining oat mixture and strawberries.

Refrigerate Overnight

Seal the jar or container and place it in the refrigerator overnight to allow the oats to soak and soften.

Serve and Enjoy

In the morning, give the oats a good stir and enjoy them cold, or warm them up in the microwave for a cozy breakfast.

Feel free to adjust the fruits and toppings to your liking!

Pro Tips

Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch, and try varying the fruits seasonally for different flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips

Overnight oats are the ultimate make-ahead breakfast, perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. You can prepare multiple jars at once, up to five days in advance. Just store each jar in the fridge, ensuring they are well-sealed to maintain freshness. This makes them an excellent option for busy weekdays when time is limited.

If you plan to incorporate various fruits, store them separately until you’re ready to eat. This prevents the fruits from becoming soggy and losing their vibrant taste. Just slice and layer them in your jar on the day you plan to enjoy your oats for maximum freshness.

Storage Guidelines

After preparing your overnight oats, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Visual indicators of freshness include the color of the strawberries and the texture of the oats. If the strawberries start to look slimy or the oats appear excessively wet, it’s best to discard them.

You can freeze individual portions of overnight oats if you wish to extend their shelf life. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm breakfast. Note that the texture might change slightly after freezing, but they're still delicious!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your overnight oats seem too dry in the morning, it could be a sign that you didn’t use enough liquid. Next time, try adding a little more milk or yogurt to the mixture before refrigerating. Remember, oats can vary in their absorbency, so adjusting liquid levels may be necessary based on the type of oats you use.

Conversely, if they are too runny, a quick stir and a sprinkle of oats or granola on top can help absorb excess liquid. This will allow you to maintain desired thickness without sacrificing flavor, ensuring you enjoy a perfectly balanced breakfast every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but quick oats will result in a softer texture. Rolled oats are ideal for overnight oats.

→ How long can I store overnight oats in the fridge?

You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days, but they are best when consumed within 1-2 days.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! Just let them thaw slightly before layering to prevent excess moisture.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

You can make it vegan by using plant-based yogurt and milk.