Craving dessert for breakfast? This Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats Recipe is your answer! It’s a healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy way to enjoy the flavors of classic strawberry shortcake, but in a convenient and nutritious overnight oats format. Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe is set to become your new go-to breakfast (or dessert!). It’s also ranking high for those searching for healthy, quick, and strawberry-filled breakfast options.
What is Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats?
Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, reimagined as a healthy and convenient breakfast option. This recipe combines the creamy texture of overnight oats with the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh strawberries, a touch of vanilla, and a hint of shortcake goodness. It’s prepared by soaking rolled oats in milk (or a dairy-free alternative) overnight, allowing the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
In the morning, you’re greeted with a ready-to-eat breakfast that captures the essence of strawberry shortcake without the added sugar and fuss. It’s a perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings while nourishing your body. Ready to start your day with a delicious and healthy dose of strawberry shortcake? Give this recipe a try!
Key Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats:
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious breakfast:
- 1/2 cup Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats will work in a pinch, but the consistency will be softer.
- 1 cup Milk (Dairy or Non-Dairy): Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or regular cow’s milk all work great. Choose your favourite!
- 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt (or Dairy-Free Yogurt): Adds creaminess and a protein boost. Unsweetened is preferred.
- 1 tablespoon Chia Seeds: For added nutrition and thickening.
- 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (or Honey): For sweetness. Adjust to your taste preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup Fresh Strawberries, sliced: The star of the show! Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Optional: 1/4 cup Crumbled Shortbread Cookies or Graham Crackers: For that authentic shortcake crunch! If using, add just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Optional: Pinch of Salt: To balance the sweetness.
- Optional: Sprig of Mint: For fresh garnish and to level up the dessert-like vibes.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats:
This Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats recipe is incredibly easy and takes only minutes to prepare! The oats soak overnight in the refrigerator, softening and absorbing all the delicious flavors. Expect a creamy, satisfying, and flavourful breakfast with a delightful hint of strawberry shortcake. Preparation time is approximately 5 minutes, plus overnight refrigeration.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a jar or container with a lid, combine the rolled oats, milk (dairy or non-dairy), Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt), chia seeds, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (if using).
- Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well combined. Make sure there are no clumps of chia seeds.
- Add Strawberries: Gently fold in half of the sliced strawberries. Reserve the remaining strawberries for topping.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the jar or container tightly with a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the oats to soften and the flavors to meld together.
- Check Consistency: In the morning, remove the oats from the refrigerator and check the consistency. If the oats are too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add Toppings: Top the oats with the remaining sliced strawberries and crumbled shortbread cookies or graham crackers (if using). A spring of mint will add to enhance the flavours as well.
- Enjoy! Your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats are ready to enjoy! Serve and devour immediately!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats:
This Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats recipe is a winner because it perfectly balances healthy eating with the nostalgic taste of dessert. Firstly, the main highlight is undoubtedly the delightful combination of creamy oats, sweet strawberries, and that hint of shortcake crunch – all in one nutritious bowl. Secondly, making it at home is a fantastic way to save money compared to buying pre-made breakfast options which are normally not healthy, and it allows you to control the ingredients and sweetness levels. Finally, the flavorful toppings like fresh strawberries and optional shortbread crumbles elevate this recipe to a truly special breakfast treat, making you feel like you’re indulging without the guilt.
If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy our Blueberry Muffin Overnight Oats for another delicious and easy breakfast option. Ready to start your day with a burst of strawberry shortcake flavor? Try making this recipe at home and experience the perfect balance of healthy and delicious!
What to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats With:
While these overnight oats are delicious on their own, consider these pairings:
- A sprinkle of toasted nuts: Almonds, pecans, or walnuts add a healthy crunch and nutty flavor.
- A dollop of whipped cream (or coconut whipped cream): For an extra touch of indulgence.
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze: Adds a tangy and sophisticated flavor contrast.
- A side of berries: Raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries complement the strawberry flavor.
- A cup of coffee or tea: The perfect morning beverage to pair with your breakfast.
Top Tips for Perfecting Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats:
Here are some tips to ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats turn out perfectly every time:
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before refrigerating and adjust the amount of maple syrup (or honey) to your preference. You may need more if your strawberries are not very sweet.
- Use Ripe Strawberries: Ripe, sweet strawberries will provide the best flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed.
- Don’t Oversoak: While overnight soaking is ideal, avoid soaking the oats for more than 24 hours, as they can become too mushy.
- Customize Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding toasted coconut flakes, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of peanut butter.
- Make a Bigger Batch: This recipe is easily doubled or tripled to prepare for multiple breakfasts throughout the week.
- Dairy-Free Options: For a completely dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk and yogurt.
- Add Protein Powder: Boost the protein content by adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture before refrigerating.
- Soften the Strawberries with sugar: To level up the taste, add a bit of sugar to the strawberries while preparing it to add natural taste.
5 Facts about Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats:
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, this breakfast keeps you full and energized for hours.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to your dietary needs and preferences.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and healthy breakfast.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids to eat oats and fruit.
- Dessert-Inspired: Satisfies your sweet cravings in a healthy and balanced way.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing: Store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will stay fresh for up to 5 days. However, the texture of the strawberries and shortbread (if added) may soften over time.
Reheating: Overnight oats are typically enjoyed cold, straight from the refrigerator. Reheating is not recommended, as it can alter the texture and flavor. If you prefer a warmer breakfast, you can let the overnight oats sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before eating.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the oats and strawberries can become mushy upon thawing. For the best taste and texture, it’s best to prepare the overnight oats fresh and store them in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts:
This Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats recipe is a delicious and healthy way to start your day. With its creamy texture, sweet strawberry flavor, and customizable toppings, it’s a breakfast that everyone will love, young and old! Its ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy individuals who are looking for a wholesome and satisfying meal that does not require any cooking.
Embrace the fusion of a classic desert with the convenience of overnight oats to experience the best of both worlds. Enjoy experimenting with alterations, toppings and enjoy the delightful flavors of this strawberry shortcake inspired breakfast treat.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats FAQs:
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, you can, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture that holds up better overnight.
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, thaw the frozen strawberries before using. Keep in mind that they may release more liquid, so you might need to adjust the amount of milk accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Absolutely! Use non-dairy milk and yogurt alternatives.
Q: How long do the overnight oats last in the fridge?
A: Up to 5 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Q: Can I add other fruits?
A: Of course! Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches would be delicious additions.
Q: Can I use a different sweetener?
A: Yes, honey, agave, or any other sweetener you prefer can be used. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
Q: Do I have to add the shortbread cookies?
A: No, they are optional. If you want to keep it healthier, you can omit them or use a healthier alternative like chopped nuts or seeds.
Q: Can I warm the oats up?
A: While it is recommended to have the Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats cold, you have the option of warming them up. Be sure to warm it slowly at low heat to avoid ruining the taste and texture.