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If I’m being honest, I don’t love overnight oats. There, I said it. I’d rather have hot oatmeal than cold oatmeal because the whole cold, mushy oatmeal thing just doesn’t do it for me.
Overnight oats are trendy, convenient, and pack a ton of nutrition so I thought I’d give then another try – as adults should do if we’re expecting kids to continuously try new foods.
Whether you’re pro overnight oats, or like me and prefer oatmeal warm, give these strawberries and cream overnight oats a chance and adjust the temperature to your preference – hot or cold.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Overnight Oats
Oats: The base of this recipe, providing hearty whole grains and fiber to keep everyone full and satisfied. You can use rolled, old fashioned, or quick oats – whatever you have on hand.
Chia seeds: These tiny seeds help thicken the oats while adding fiber, protein, and brain-boosting omega-3s.
Milk of choice: The liquid in this recipe that allows the oats to soften and the chia seeds to thicken. Also provides valuable protein, calcium, and vitamin D, if using cows milk.
Plain or vanilla yogurt: Makes the oats extra creamy and adds more protein, especially if using Greek yogurt. To help reduce added sugars, try using plain yogurt.
Chopped strawberries: Provides natural sweetness and vitamin C. Feel free to use fresh or frozen. This strawberry and cream overnight oats recipes is perfect for using up fresh strawberries that are about to go “bad.”
Maple syrup or Honey (optional): Optional, but if you or your kids prefer things on the sweeter side, you will want to add just a touch.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting flavor that brings the whole recipe together.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Mason jars or an airtight container
- Measuring cups
- Spoon for mixing
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Combine Ingredients: In a jar or container, combine all the ingredients, except for the strawberries, stirring until well combined. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least four hours.
Stir and Enjoy: In the morning, give it a good stir. And depending on the consistency, your kids prefer, add a splash of milk. Top with additional fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or sprinkles for an extra fun factor.
Not feeling the cold oatmeal thing? Warm it up in the microwave for 30-60 seconds and enjoy it like a creamy bowl of comfort or give this homemade strawberries and cream oatmeal recipe a try.
Nutritional Benefits
These strawberry and cream overnight oats are filled with important nutrients that support growth and learning, and won’t leave them asking for a snack ten minutes later.
- Fiber from the oats, chia seeds, and strawberries helps support regular digestion and tummies feeling full longer.
- Protein from milk, yogurt, and chia seeds supports growing muscles and keeps kids satisfied.
- Omega-3 fatty acids from chia seeds help support brain development and focus (perfect for busy school mornings).
- Calcium from milk and yogurt helps build strong bones and healthy teeth.
- Vitamin C from strawberries supports a strong immune system.
Why Use Chia Seeds in Overnight Oats
Chia seeds are tiny, but they are really impressive. They can soak up 10 times their weight in liquid and magically create a thick, creamy texture that makes overnight oats more filling.
And if your kids aren’t big fans of the cold, mushy texture of these strawberries and cream overnight oats, blending the mix smooth can work wonders.
Chia seeds also bring along a hefty dose of fiber and valuable omega-3 fatty acids for growing brains.
Variations
- For a dairy-free version, use a milk and yogurt alternative (for a tropical vibe, try coconut milk or coconut yogurt)
- Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the mixture for a richer, cheesecake-inspired flavor and a few more calories.
- Mix in a handful of granola or your kid’s favorite cereal in the morning for added crunch.
- Stir in a tablespoon of nut butter to increase the protein and healthy fat content, giving it a pb&j vibe.
- Swap fresh strawberries for frozen ones if fresh berries aren’t in season.
- Change out the strawberries for any other berry you or your kid’s prefer.
Tips for Making It Kid-Friendly
- Let kids help assemble their jars. Giving them control over adding ingredients makes them more likely to eat it.
- Start with a smaller amount of chia seeds if your child isn’t used to the texture. You can always increase the amount over time.
- Use fun containers or jars to make breakfast visually appealing.
- If your child isn’t a fan of chunks of fruit, blend the strawberries into the milk and yogurt for a smoother, creamier option.
- Adjust the sweetness to your child’s preference. A small drizzle of honey or maple syrup can make a big difference for picky eaters.
- Add whipped cream, sprinkles, or both for an extra fun factor.
Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats are an easy, customizable breakfast that are packed with valuable nutrients such as protein, fiber, omega-3s, calcium, and vitamin C.
Because they are a make-ahead breakfast, they’ll help mornings run smoother. And hey, even if you’re a little skeptical like me, I recommend you give this recipe a try because even adults need to try things again.
For more simple breakfast ideas, grab my Super Simple Breakfast Guide.
Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup strawberries diced
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tsp maple syrup optional
- 3 tsp heavy cream or coffee creamer
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt plain or vanilla
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Combine oats, chia seeds, milk, cream, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, vanilla, and salt in a jar or container. Stir until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least four hours.
- Stir overnight oats and add a splash of milk if you prefer a thinner consistency. Top with additional fresh strawberries before serving.
