Strawberry Cheesecake Oats With Chia

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Oats With Chia
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced; 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar; Additional strawberries for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Comfort Classics

I absolutely love starting my day with these Strawberry Cheesecake Oats with Chia. The combination of creamy oats and fresh strawberries transports me to a summer picnic with every bite. Plus, the chia seeds add a delightful texture while packing a punch of nutrition. Preparing them ahead of time means I can enjoy a quick, healthy breakfast even on my busiest days. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to regular oats again!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:01:36.023Z

When I first experimented with combining strawberries and cheesecake flavors in oatmeal, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they blended together. The light cream cheese flavor gives the oats a deliciously unique twist, and the fresh strawberries bring a burst of sweetness that makes every spoonful a joy. I love enjoying these oats as a delightful breakfast treat or a refreshing dessert replacement on warm days.

One tip I've learned is to let the oats soak overnight, which allows the chia seeds to expand and create a creamy consistency. If you’re like me and want something quick in the morning, these overnight oats will become your go-to. Just grab them from the fridge, and you're set!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy cheesecake flavor balanced with fresh strawberries
Nutritious chia seeds boost fiber and omega-3s
Quick and easy preparation for busy mornings

Understanding the Role of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are not just a textural component in these Strawberry Cheesecake Oats; they play a vital role in the recipe's nutritional profile. When soaked, chia seeds absorb liquid and expand, creating a gel-like consistency that contributes to the creamy texture of the oats. This unique characteristic helps bind the ingredients together, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. Additionally, they are a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, making your breakfast not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.

If you're looking to substitute chia seeds for another ingredient, consider ground flaxseed, though it won’t offer the same texture. The ratio would be similar, about 2 tablespoons per cup of oats. However, keep in mind that flaxseed doesn't gel in the same way as chia seeds, so your oats might be slightly less creamy.

Perfecting Your Oats Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in your Strawberry Cheesecake Oats is all about timing and soaking. Aim to refrigerate them for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum creaminess. The longer the oats and chia seeds sit, the softer and more flavorful they become. If you're a fan of a less thick consistency, simply add extra liquid in the form of milk, stirring in a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired texture before serving.

Another common mistake is under-mixing the initial oat mixture. Be sure to thoroughly combine the oats, chia seeds, and other ingredients. You want to ensure that each oat grain is coated with the yogurt and sweetener mixture for even flavor distribution. A whisk or a sturdy fork works well for this; just watch out for clumps!

Creative Serving Suggestions

While the base of this recipe shines with strawberries, don’t hesitate to mix in or swap other fruits based on what's in season. Blueberries, chopped peaches, or even raspberries can offer an exciting twist, each adding its unique flavor profile to the dish. Additionally, consider incorporating a sprinkle of nuts or granola on top for added crunch and healthy fats—the contrast in textures can elevate your breakfast experience.

Although this dish is designed to be enjoyed cold, you can make a warm version by briefly microwaving individual portions for about 30 seconds. This is a particularly comforting option during chilly mornings. Just be sure to stir well after heating to evenly distribute the warmth; no one likes hot and cold spots!

Ingredients

For the Oats

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Additional strawberries for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Oats

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well and ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Refrigerate

Cover the bowl or transfer the mixture into jars. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the oats and chia seeds to soak up the liquid and soften.

Make the Cheesecake Topping

In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add a splash of milk if necessary to reach a spreadable consistency.

Assemble and Serve

Once the oats are ready, serve them in bowls or jars. Top with the cream cheese mixture and diced strawberries. Garnish with additional strawberries if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the oatmeal mixture before soaking. If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to your liking.

Storage Tips

These Strawberry Cheesecake Oats store beautifully in the fridge. You can prepare a batch on Sunday evening and enjoy it throughout the week. Just make sure to keep the chia layer and toppings separate until you're ready to serve. Stored in an airtight container, they remain fresh for up to five days. The oats might thicken slightly in the fridge; simply stir in a bit of milk or yogurt before consuming to loosen them up.

If you're preparing for a larger gathering or meal prep, you can double or even triple the recipe. The ratios for ingredients remain the same, and the mixing method stays unchanged. Just ensure you have larger containers or multiple jars ready for portioning.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your oats come out too watery, it’s likely due to not letting them soak long enough or adding too much liquid. Just remember that the chia seeds need time to absorb the moisture. You can always salvage this by mixing in a bit more rolled oats and letting them sit for an additional hour or so before serving.

Conversely, if they end up too thick, don’t fret! This can happen based on the oats you use or the additional chia. To remedy this, gradually stir in a bit of milk until you achieve your preferred consistency. It's a simple fix that ensures you still get to enjoy a delightful breakfast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them a bit before adding them to the oats.

→ How long can I store these oats?

You can store the soaked oats in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use a non-dairy yogurt and milk substitute, such as almond milk, and replace honey with maple syrup.

→ Is it necessary to let the oats soak overnight?

While it's not strictly necessary, soaking them overnight ensures that they are extra creamy and the chia seeds fully expand.