Berry Cheesecake Overnight Oats are a fun twist on breakfast! With creamy yogurt, sweet berries, and a hint of graham cracker, it feels like dessert in the morning.
Making these oats ahead means you can enjoy a tasty start to your day without the morning rush. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats as they absorb liquid well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Greek Yogurt: This gives a creamy cheesecake-like texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute with coconut yogurt or almond yogurt instead.
Cream Cheese: Using cream cheese adds a rich flavor. For a lighter option, you can try Neufchâtel cheese, or a dairy-free cream cheese if you want to keep it vegan.
Milk: Any type of milk works; almond, oat, or soy milk are great plant-based choices. Adjust based on your dietary preferences.
Mixed Berries: Fresh is best, but frozen berries are a great substitute out of season. Just remember to reduce the soaking time as they release more liquid.
How Do You Make the Oats Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to creamy oats is the combination of yogurt and cream cheese, which mimics the texture of cheesecake. Be sure to mix well and let them sit overnight—this helps the oats soften and the flavors meld. Here’s how:
- Start with a smooth and creamy mixture of yogurt and cream cheese. Whisk it until there are no lumps.
- Mix in the oats and allow them to soak up the liquids overnight. This is crucial for the right texture.
- Add berries in layers! Half of them mixed in and half on top adds a beautiful look and bursts of berry flavor.
- Dabble with different toppings like nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
Berry Cheesecake Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for the cheesecake texture)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, blackberries)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
- 2 tablespoons crushed graham crackers or granola for topping
- Extra fresh berries for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours (or overnight) to chill. It’s a quick and easy breakfast solution that you can prep in advance!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the base that gives your oats that cheesecake flavor!
2. Combine with Oats:
Stir in the rolled oats and chia seeds (if using) until they are well mixed in with the yogurt mixture. Make sure everything is evenly combined for the best texture!
3. Add the Berries:
Gently fold in half of the mixed berries into the oat mixture. This will provide those lovely fruity bursts throughout!
4. Portion It Out:
Spoon the oat mixture into one or two mason jars or your favorite serving containers, filling them about halfway.
5. Layer More Berries:
Add a layer of the remaining mixed berries on top of the oat mixture in each jar for a lovely, colorful presentation!
6. Refrigerate:
Cover the jars and put them in the refrigerator. Let them chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is important as it allows the oats to soak up the flavors and get nice and soft.
7. Top and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or granola on top for that classic cheesecake crunch. You can also add extra fresh berries for garnish!
8. Enjoy!
Serve chilled and enjoy your deliciously creamy, fruity, cheesecake-inspired breakfast!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe, as instant oats can become overly mushy when soaked. Rolled oats retain their texture better and absorb the liquid without losing their shape.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
These overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Give them a stir before eating to ensure the mixture is well combined.
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Berries?
Absolutely! You can swap in other fruits like sliced bananas, diced apples, or peaches. Just remember that different fruits may change the flavor profile slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
Is it Possible to Make This Vegan?
Yes! To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the Greek yogurt and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, like coconut yogurt and vegan cream cheese. You can also swap honey for maple syrup to keep it plant-based.