Strawberry Overnight Oats
These strawberry overnight oats are one of my favorite make-ahead breakfasts when I want something that feels a bit special but still takes barely any effort. I've made versions of this on repeat, especially in warmer months, because the homemade strawberry chia jam, made with frozen strawberries, adds so much fresh flavor compared to store-bought jams (and it takes less than 10 minutes).
It's lightly sweet, high in protein, and keeps you full all morning. Plus, it's very easy to tweak depending on what you have in the fridge!
For more breakfast ideas, try my stewed blueberry oats, or these amazing breakfast burritos!
Pairing Suggestions
These overnight oats are great on their own, but you can also serve them with:
- A hot coffee or matcha
- Extra fresh fruit on the side
- A spoonful of nut butter for extra staying power
Ingredient Notes
The exact quantities are in the recipe card, but here's why I use these ingredients and where you can swap things.
- Frozen strawberries - Frozen berries break down quickly and release their juices, which makes them perfect for quick chia jam. Fresh strawberries work too in the summer when in season, but you may need to cook them a little longer.
- Chia seeds - These thicken the jam naturally and add fiber and omega-3s. I've tested different amounts, and 1.5 tablespoons gives a jammy texture without turning it gummy.
- Lemon juice - This brightens the strawberries and balances the sweetness. Don't skip it - even half a lemon makes a big difference.
- Honey - Just enough to enhance the fruit without overpowering it. Maple syrup works well, too.
- Protein powder - I like vanilla protein powder here because it blends seamlessly into the oats and complements the strawberry flavor. If your protein powder is very thick, mixing it with water first helps avoid clumps (learned this the hard way) and avoids a grainy texture to your oats. I use this vegan vanilla protein powder, but feel free to use whatever you prefer.
- Milk - Any milk works: dairy, oat, almond, or soy. Use what you normally enjoy.
- Greek yogurt (topping) - Adds creaminess and extra protein. I usually swirl it on top right before eating rather than mixing it in.
How to Make Strawberry Overnight Oats
Here is a brief overview of making this recipe (along with some process photos!) - scroll down to the recipe card for the exact ingredients and instructions.
Step 1) Make the strawberry chia jam
Add frozen strawberries and lemon juice to a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the strawberries break down. Stir in the chia seeds and honey, remove from the heat, and let thicken for a few minutes.
Step 2) Mix the protein base
In a small bowl, mix the protein powder with the water until smooth. This prevents lumps and a grainy texture in your overnight oats.
Step 3) Assemble the oats
Add oats, milk, and the protein mixture to a jar or container. Stir well, then spoon the strawberry chia jam over the oats.
Step 4) Chill
Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours). To serve, top with Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh strawberries before eating.
Chef's Tips / Cooking Hacks
- If your chia jam thickens too much, add a splash of water and stir to loosen it.
- Stir the oats once more after 10 minutes in the fridge if you remember - it helps prevent any dry patches.
- Taste your protein powder before sweetening too much; some are already very sweet! Plus, the strawberry chia jam adds a wonderfully tart sweetness to the oats.
- This recipe works great in jars for grab-and-go breakfasts.
Storage
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping your breakfasts! Store your overnight oats in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chia jam can be made separately and kept in the fridge for 4-5 days.
Add your granola just before serving so it stays crunchy.
FAQs
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes - use plant-based milk and dairy-free yogurt for a vegan overnight oats recipe!
Can I skip the protein powder?
Absolutely. Just add a little extra oats or chia seeds to keep it filling.
Can I use other fruit for the jam?
Yes. Raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend all work well.
Do I have to cook the jam?
Cooking gives the best texture and flavor, but you can mash fresh berries and mix them with chia seeds if you're really short on time.
Strawberry Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 150 g frozen strawberries
- ½ lemon juiced
- 1.5 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoon vanilla protein powder (~20g)
- 2 tablespoon water
- 50 g oats
- 125 ml milk
- 2 tablespoon Greek yoghurt
- 1 tablespoon granola
- Fresh strawberries
Method
- Make the Strawberry Chia Jam: Add the frozen strawberries and lemon juice to a pan and cook for ~10 minutes, mashing the strawberries as they cook down to your desired consistency. Then, stir in the chia seeds and honey.150 g frozen strawberries, ½ lemon, 1.5 tablespoon chia seeds, 1 tablespoon honey
- Make the Overnight Oats: Add the vanilla protein powder and water to a bowl and mix to combine. Then, add the oats and milk and stir to fully combine.2 tablespoon vanilla protein powder, 2 tablespoon water, 50 g oats, 125 ml milk
- Assemble: Add a tablespoon of strawberry chia jam to the bottom of your glass container, followed by the overnight oats, then another scoop of the jam.
- Refrigerate overnight (or for a minimum of 4 hours), then top with the Greek yoghurt, granola, and any other toppings of your choice (like fresh strawberries or more chia jam) before serving.2 tablespoon Greek yoghurt, 1 tablespoon granola, Fresh strawberries
we make these all the time now! Thank you for sharing
Thanks so much for commenting DeeDee, glad you like them!!
My favourite overnight oats. The Strawberry jam is amazing.
Thank you! Glad you're enjoying them 🙂
One of my favourite overnight oats recipes. The jam is a great addition along with the honey over the granola.
Thanks Stuart - so glad you like the overnight oats!
Jam delicious, make it twice a week for my husband