In my grandmother’s strawberry patch taught me that the best desserts start with patience and sun-warmed fruit. Now I capture that same magic in a jar with my Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats, where juicy berries soften into the creamy oats overnight. There is something truly special about waking up to a breakfast that tastes like a treat but fuels your body like a champion. This recipe is my go-to solution for busy mornings, lazy weekends, and every day in between. It is the kind of simple, make-ahead magic that turns a regular kitchen into a place of cozy comfort. If you love easy breakfasts, you should also try my Maple Pecan Overnight Oats for another delicious flavor.
Table of Contents
Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
Capture the magic of sun-warmed strawberries in a jar with these creamy overnight oats. This make-ahead breakfast tastes like a treat but fuels your body like a champion. It is the perfect solution for busy mornings and lazy weekends alike.
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 0min
- Total Time: 4h 5min
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: breakfast
- Method: no-cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup milk of choice
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- In a 16-ounce jar, toss chopped strawberries with optional teaspoon of maple syrup.
- Add oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, tablespoon of maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to the jar.
- Seal jar tightly and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Stir well before serving and add desired toppings.
Notes
For best results, use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats. The oats will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add extra milk if too thick after chilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 48
- Fiber: 8
- Protein: 14
- Cholesterol: 10
Ingredients List for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats begin with a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. You likely have most of them in your pantry right now. This is one of those healthy breakfast recipes that proves good food does not need to be complicated.
For the base:
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (use gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup milk of choice (I love whole milk for creaminess, but almond or oat milk work beautifully)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (for a protein boost and tangy flavor)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (they create a wonderful pudding-like texture)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- A tiny pinch of salt (to make all the flavors pop)
For the strawberry layer:
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, for extra sweet berries)
This combination is the heart of so many wonderful overnight oats ideas. The Greek yogurt makes them incredibly creamy, while the chia seeds thicken everything up perfectly.
Timing for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
This is where the beauty of overnight oats in a jar truly shines. The active time is minimal, leaving the refrigerator to do the heavy lifting.
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours or overnight
- Total time: 4 hours 5 minutes (mostly hands-off)
Compared to cooking a pot of oatmeal in the morning, these easy overnight oats healthy recipes save you precious minutes when you need them most.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
Making these overnight oats is less about precise technique and more about joyful assembly. I always use a 16-ounce mason jar because it makes mixing, storing, and eating so simple.
Prepare the Strawberries: In your jar, gently toss the chopped strawberries with the optional teaspoon of maple syrup. This little step helps the berries release their natural juices and intensifies that classic strawberry shortcake flavor.
Combine the Base Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, the tablespoon of maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt right on top of the strawberries.
Mix Thoroughly: Seal the jar with its lid and shake it vigorously for about 30 seconds. No lid? Just stir everything together with a spoon until well combined. Make sure all the oat flakes are submerged in the liquid.
Chill to Perfection: Place the jar in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This rest time is non-negotiable for the creamiest texture. The oats soften, the chia seeds plump up, and the flavors meld into something magical.
For an even more decadent experience, you can try blended overnight oats by pulsing all the base ingredients (except the fresh strawberry chunks) in a blender until smooth, then layering them with the berries.
Nutritional Information for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
One serving of these Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats is not just delicious; it is a genuinely nourishing start to your day. Please note, this is an estimate and can vary based on your specific ingredients.
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~14g (Thanks to the Greek yogurt!)
- Carbohydrates: ~48g
- Fat: ~8g
This breakfast is a great source of fiber from the oats and chia seeds, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. The fresh strawberries provide a dose of vitamin C, making these healthy snacks a powerful choice.
Equipment Needed for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
You do not need any fancy gadgets for this recipe. The simplicity is part of the charm.
- A 16-ounce mason jar with a lid (or any sealable container)
- A measuring cup and spoons
- A knife and cutting board for the strawberries
That is it. This is one of those easy overnight oats recipes that proves you do not need a lot of equipment to create something wonderful.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats Recipe
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for so many reasons, and I think it will in yours, too.
- It Tastes Like Dessert for Breakfast: The combination of sweet strawberries and vanilla-spiked creamy oats is pure comfort.
- Meal Prep Magic: You can make several jars at once for a week of grab-and-go breakfasts.
- Endlessly Customizable: It is a perfect base recipe for all your overnight oats ideas.
- Family-Friendly: It is a healthy, sweet breakfast that kids and adults alike adore.
- No Cooking Required: Perfect for hot summer mornings when you cannot bear to turn on the stove.
Healthier Alternatives for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegan: Use a plant-based yogurt and milk, and swap the maple syrup for agave.
- Higher Protein: Add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the base mixture. You can also check out my recipe for The Best High-Protein Overnight Oats for more inspiration.
- Lower Sugar: Omit the added maple syrup and rely on the natural sweetness of the ripe strawberries.
- Dairy-Free: As mentioned, simply use your preferred non-dairy milk and yogurt alternatives.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
The fun does not stop after the overnight chill. Toppings make these overnight oats in a jar a special treat.
- Right Before Serving: Give the oats a good stir. The texture will be thick and creamy.
- Top It Off: Add a handful of fresh strawberry slices, a sprinkle of granola for a shortcake crunch, or a few dark chocolate chips.
- For Extra Creaminess: A drizzle of milk or a dollop of extra yogurt is always welcome.
- Pairing Idea: These oats pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. If you love other oat-based breakfasts, my Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats are another fantastic hands-off option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
After making countless jars of overnight oats, I have learned a few pitfalls to avoid for the perfect texture and flavor.
- Using Quick Oats: Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats. Quick oats can become too mushy and lose their pleasant texture after soaking.
- Not Adding Enough Liquid: If your oats seem too thick in the morning, simply stir in an extra splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Skipping the Chill Time: The 4-hour minimum is crucial. The oats need that time to properly soften and absorb the liquid.
- Forgetting to Stir Before Eating: The chia seeds and flavors can settle, so a good stir is essential for the best bite.
Storing Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
These easy overnight oats healthy recipes are the definition of a make-ahead meal.
- Refrigerator: Your prepared Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes them perfect for weekly meal prep.
- Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this particular recipe with the fresh strawberries, as they can become watery upon thawing. For a freezable oat option, my Make-Ahead Protein Oatmeal Bake is a fantastic alternative.
- On the Go: The mason jar is its own perfect portable container. Just grab a spoon and you are set!
Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
These Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats are more than just a convenient breakfast; they are a little jar of morning joy. They prove that with a few minutes of effort the night before, you can gift your future self a delicious, healthy, and utterly satisfying start to the day. It is comfort food, made easy, and waiting for you in the fridge.
I hope this recipe brings as much simplicity and delight to your kitchen as it has to mine. If you are looking for another portable oat-based breakfast, you must try my Banana Oatmeal High Protein Breakfast Cookies. And if you do make these overnight oats, I would love to hear about it! Let me know how your Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats turned out, or share your favorite topping combinations. Happy prepping.
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
How long does Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats last?
Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats typically last for 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best flavor and texture, consume within 2-3 days.
Can you eat overnight oats warm?
While traditionally eaten cold, overnight oats can be gently warmed on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can change the texture.
What's the difference between overnight oats and regular oats?
The main difference is preparation method and temperature. Regular oats are cooked with hot liquid on the stovetop or microwave, while overnight oats are soaked in liquid overnight in the refrigerator, softening them without heat.
Can I use frozen strawberries for overnight oats?
Yes, frozen strawberries work perfectly for overnight oats. They will thaw overnight in the refrigerator and release some of their juices, adding flavor and moisture to the oats.
What kind of oats is best for overnight oats?
Rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats) are generally considered the best for overnight oats. They absorb liquid well, become creamy, and maintain a pleasant chewy texture without becoming mushy.
How do you make overnight oats thicker?
To make overnight oats thicker, reduce the amount of liquid, add chia seeds or flax seeds (which absorb a lot of moisture), or stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or nut butter before chilling.
💬 Lets Stay Connected!
For daily recipes, kitchen tips, and exclusive content, follow me on:
👉 Facebook for behind-the-scenes & community fun
👉 Pinterest for visual inspiration & meal ideas
👉 X (Twitter) for quick tips & trending recipes
📲 Join the flavor journey, your next favorite recipe is just a follow away!
