These Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats are a tasty start to your day! With creamy yogurt, fresh strawberries, and a touch of honey, it’s like dessert for breakfast!
Who says you can’t have cheesecake in the morning? I love making these the night before, so I can just grab and go. Plus, the berries add a pop of color to my breakfast table! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats are key for their chewy texture. You can swap them with quick oats if you’re in a hurry, but they may become mushier. Steel-cut oats are a healthy choice too, though they’ll need extra soaking time.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut yogurt or almond yogurt for a similar texture. Regular yogurt is a lighter option, but it won’t have that cheesecake essence.
Cream Cheese: Essential for that cheesecake taste! If you want a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese, which is lower in fat. For a vegan option, use vegan cream cheese or cashew cream.
Fresh Strawberries: They provide natural sweetness and beautiful color! If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen berries. Just let them thaw and slice before mixing in.
Granola/Nuts: These add great crunch! If you’re gluten-free, make sure to choose gluten-free granola or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a nut-free option.
How Do You Get the Cream Cheese Fully Mixed In?
One common challenge is mixing the cream cheese smoothly into the oats mixture. Here’s how to avoid lumps:
- Soften the cream cheese at room temperature first—this makes it easier to blend.
- Mix the cream cheese with honey and vanilla extract before adding the other ingredients to help it combine better.
- Use a whisk or electric mixer for creamy results. Just be careful not to overmix!
By giving a little more love to that cream cheese, you’ll ensure it melts into the mixture perfectly, giving your oats that delicious cheesecake flavor without any lumps!
Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and cheesecake flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For The Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus a few extra for topping)
- Granola or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
- A drizzle of honey or fruit syrup for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and requires at least 6 hours in the refrigerator to let the oats soak and absorb the flavors. Perfect for preparing the night before and enjoying a quick breakfast the next morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. This is key to getting that delicious cheesecake flavor throughout!
2. Fold in the Strawberries:
Gently fold in half of the sliced strawberries into the oats mixture. This adds a fresh, fruity taste to the base and gets it all mixed together.
3. Layer It Up:
In a clean jar or container, layer half of the oat mixture on the bottom. Then, add a layer of sliced strawberries on top of this oat layer. Follow this with the remaining oat mixture as the next layer.
4. Refrigerate:
Cover the jar and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours. This allows the oats to soften and the flavors to meld together into a creamy delight!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, top with the remaining fresh strawberries. If you like, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or cream cheese on top, and sprinkle granola or chopped nuts for an extra crunch. Drizzle some honey or fruit syrup on top for extra sweetness if you desire.
Enjoy your Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats chilled straight from the jar with a spoon. It’s a delicious and nutritious way to start your day!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but they will absorb liquid more quickly and may create a softer texture. If using instant oats, consider reducing the soaking time to around 4-5 hours instead of overnight.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, simply swap the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk. Use dairy-free yogurt and cream cheese as well, such as soy or coconut-based options. This way, you’ll still enjoy a creamy texture without the dairy!
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Strawberries?
No worries! You can substitute fresh strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. If using frozen strawberries, just ensure they’re thawed and gently sliced before mixing them in, as they might release more moisture.
How Do I Store Any Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The oats will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to stir in a splash of milk before enjoying them again to achieve the desired consistency.
