There’s nothing quite like waking up to a breakfast that feels like dessert but is actually packed with wholesome goodness. Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats is the perfect way to start your day—it’s creamy, slightly tangy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor.
This recipe is inspired by the classic strawberry cheesecake, but with a healthy twist. Instead of a buttery crust and a heavy cream cheese filling, we use oats, Greek yogurt, and a touch of natural sweetness to create a balanced, satisfying meal. The best part? You can make it ahead of time, so there’s no need to rush around in the morning. Just grab your jar of overnight oats, and you’re good to go!
Let’s dive into this delicious, make-ahead breakfast that will keep you full and energized all morning long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tastes Like Dessert: If you love cheesecake, this is a guilt-free way to enjoy those flavors first thing in the morning.
- Super Easy to Make: Just mix, refrigerate, and enjoy! No cooking required.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make multiple servings at once for a stress-free week.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied.
- Customizable: Swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup diced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for extra thickness and fiber)
- 1 tablespoon crushed graham crackers (for that “cheesecake crust” effect, optional)
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a mason jar or airtight container, combine the oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and softened cream cheese. Stir well to ensure the cream cheese is evenly distributed—this is what gives the oats their cheesecake-like flavor and texture.
Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor
Stir in the honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and chia seeds if using. The honey enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries while the vanilla extract gives it that classic cheesecake taste.
Step 3: Fold in the Strawberries
Gently mix in the diced strawberries. You can mash some of them slightly if you want their juices to blend into the oats, making them even more flavorful.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the jar and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This allows the oats to soak up the liquid, creating a thick and creamy consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they’re too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen them up. Sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top for that classic cheesecake “crust” texture. Add extra strawberries for garnish, and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- For Extra Creaminess: Blend the cream cheese with the milk before mixing it with the oats. This helps distribute it evenly.
- Want It Sweeter? Add an extra drizzle of honey or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
- Need More Protein? Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt.
- Make It Vegan: Use plant-based milk, dairy-free yogurt, and a vegan cream cheese alternative.
- Meal Prep Hack: Make a few jars at once so you have breakfast ready for multiple days. They last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 4-8 hours (overnight)
- Total Time: 5 minutes + chilling
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Notes
- If you prefer warm oats, heat them for about 30 seconds in the microwave before eating.
- The chia seeds help thicken the oats, but you can skip them if you don’t have any.
- You can replace the strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~6g
- Fiber: ~6g
- Sugar: ~14g
(Exact nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture will be much softer, almost pudding-like. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with old-fashioned oats.
2. How long do these overnight oats last?
They stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’re stored in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze overnight oats?
While you can freeze them, the texture might change after thawing. If you want to try it, freeze in small containers and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
4. What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
You can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt makes the oats thicker and adds more protein.
5. Can I add nuts or seeds?
Absolutely! Chopped almonds, walnuts, or flaxseeds would be great additions for extra crunch and nutrition.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended for best texture, but can be frozen if needed.
- Serving: Best enjoyed cold, but can be slightly warmed if preferred.
Related Recipes
If you loved these Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats, try these other delicious breakfast ideas:
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats is the ultimate way to enjoy a creamy, delicious breakfast that feels indulgent but is actually packed with good-for-you ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just want a hassle-free morning, this recipe is a must-try.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats
Description
There’s nothing quite like waking up to a breakfast that feels like dessert but is actually packed with wholesome goodness. Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats is the perfect way to start your day—it’s creamy, slightly tangy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor.
This recipe is inspired by the classic strawberry cheesecake, but with a healthy twist. Instead of a buttery crust and a heavy cream cheese filling, we use oats, Greek yogurt, and a touch of natural sweetness to create a balanced, satisfying meal. The best part? You can make it ahead of time, so there’s no need to rush around in the morning. Just grab your jar of overnight oats, and you’re good to go!
Let’s dive into this delicious, make-ahead breakfast that will keep you full and energized all morning long.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup diced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for extra thickness and fiber)
- 1 tablespoon crushed graham crackers (for that “cheesecake crust” effect, optional)
Instructions
In a mason jar or airtight container, combine the oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and softened cream cheese. Stir well to ensure the cream cheese is evenly distributed—this is what gives the oats their cheesecake-like flavor and texture.
Stir in the honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and chia seeds if using. The honey enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries while the vanilla extract gives it that classic cheesecake taste.
Gently mix in the diced strawberries. You can mash some of them slightly if you want their juices to blend into the oats, making them even more flavorful.
Cover the jar and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This allows the oats to soak up the liquid, creating a thick and creamy consistency.
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they’re too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen them up. Sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top for that classic cheesecake “crust” texture. Add extra strawberries for garnish, and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer warm oats, heat them for about 30 seconds in the microwave before eating.
- The chia seeds help thicken the oats, but you can skip them if you don’t have any.
- You can replace the strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.