Strawberry Banana Overnight Oats

Name: Strawberry Banana Overnight Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 banana, sliced; 1 cup strawberries, sliced; Nuts or seeds (optional); Yogurt (optional)

Highlighted under: Light Wellness Dishes

I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty and delicious breakfast. These Strawberry Banana Overnight Oats have become my go-to option for busy mornings. They are incredibly easy to prepare the night before, and the combination of fresh strawberries and ripe bananas creates a delightful breakfast that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, they're customizable, so I often switch up the toppings based on what's in season or what I have on hand. Give them a try and see how they can transform your mornings!

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:01:36.109Z

When I first discovered overnight oats, I was amazed at how simple yet tasty they could be. The blend of creamy oats with the fresh sweetness of strawberries and bananas creates a wonderful morning treat. I also love that I can prepare them in just a few minutes the night before and grab them on my way out the door. It makes my mornings so much easier!

One tip I've learned is to use ripe bananas to really enhance the flavor. If you have any extra time, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of nut butter on top for extra creaminess and taste. This combination is also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously creamy with fresh fruit flavors
Perfect for meal prep and busy mornings
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Exploring Ingredient Benefits

Each component of these Strawberry Banana Overnight Oats plays a vital role in not only texture but also nutrition. Rolled oats are known for their heart-healthy benefits, providing fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. They also provide sustained energy, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. By soaking the oats overnight, the phytic acid is reduced, enhancing their digestibility and nutrient absorption.

Chia seeds, another powerhouse ingredient, contribute omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making these oats an excellent choice for a balanced meal. They expand when soaked, thickening the mixture and creating a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a boost in texture or flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of nut butter or an extra scoop of seeds for added richness and crunch.

Variations and Customizations

The base for these overnight oats is incredibly versatile, inviting you to play around with various fruits and toppings. While strawberries and bananas are a classic combination, feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits like peaches or blueberries. You can also switch the liquid; almond milk, coconut milk, or even yogurt would create a unique variation while maintaining creaminess. Mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile without excess calories.

For those following a plant-based or vegan lifestyle, substituting honey with maple syrup or agave nectar is straightforward and maintains the sweetness. If freshness is a concern, using frozen fruit can be just as nutritious and flavorful. Simply add the frozen fruit directly to the mixture before refrigerating to allow the natural juices to meld with the oats.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These overnight oats can be easily prepared in batches, making them ideal for meal prep. The mixture can last in the refrigerator for up to five days when stored in airtight containers. This way, you can enjoy a fast, nourishing breakfast for several days, reducing morning stress. Just give your oats a quick stir before serving as separation may occur.

To enhance freshness, consider keeping dry ingredients, like oats and seeds, in one jar and mix them with the wet ingredients just the night before consuming. This method can help maintain the desired consistency. If you've topped them with fresh fruit, it's best to consume them within 48 hours to enjoy the optimal flavor and textures.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings

1 banana, sliced
1 cup strawberries, sliced
Nuts or seeds (optional)
Yogurt (optional)

Mix and match toppings based on your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.

Add Fruit

Fold in the sliced bananas and strawberries before transferring the mixture into two jars or airtight containers.

Chill

Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours, allowing the oats to soak up the liquid.

Serve and Enjoy

The next morning, top with additional fruit, nuts, or yogurt if desired, then enjoy your delicious overnight oats!

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different fruits or sweeteners to suit your taste preferences. These overnight oats also pair wonderfully with different types of nut butters.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your oats turn out too thick after soaking, adding a splash of additional milk can help achieve your desired consistency. Be cautious with the amount of chia seeds; they absorb a lot of liquid, so if you prefer a creamier texture, you might want to reduce them slightly.

On the other hand, if your mixture is too thin, it’s likely that the oats didn’t absorb enough liquid due to the type of oats used. Ensure you’re using rolled oats rather than quick oats, as quick oats tend to break down faster and can become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

These overnight oats can be enjoyed straight from the jar for a quick breakfast, but there are also fun ways to serve them. Layer them in a parfait with yogurt and additional fruits for a visually appealing breakfast option or dessert. This creates a multi-textural experience that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to taste.

Consider adding drizzles of homemade nut butter or a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist on your oats. This can be particularly delightful for kids or those wanting a special breakfast treat without straying from the healthy base.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling the recipe is easy; just maintain the same 1:1 ratio for rolled oats and liquid. If you'd like to prepare multiple servings, consider using a large mixing bowl, which will help you evenly distribute the ingredients. This makes it simple to portion out into jars afterward.

To prepare for a larger group, simply multiply the recipe by the number of servings you need. Keep in mind that the soaking time remains the same, regardless of quantity, but make sure your refrigerator has enough space to accommodate all your jars comfortably.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these oats vegan?

Yes! Simply use a plant-based milk and a vegan sweetener such as maple syrup.

→ How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?

Overnight oats can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of chia seeds?

You can substitute with ground flaxseed or omit them altogether if you prefer.

→ Can I freeze overnight oats?

Yes! Overnight oats can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in freezer-safe containers.