Strawberry Cheesecake Oats With Chia
Highlighted under: Vitality Kitchen
I absolutely love starting my day with something wholesome and delicious, and these Strawberry Cheesecake Oats with Chia do just that! The creamy texture combined with the sweet and tangy strawberry flavor is so satisfying. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, making breakfast a breeze even on busy mornings. The chia seeds add a delightful crunch while providing a boost of nutrition. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it time and again.
When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining cheesecake with oats, I knew I had to try it. The result was beyond my expectations! The cream cheese mixed with yogurt creates a lovely, smooth base that feels indulgent yet healthy. I found that letting the mixture sit in the fridge for a bit allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the oats soak up the liquids.
One specific tip I discovered is that using fresh strawberries rather than frozen gives an extra burst of flavor and really elevates the dish. This recipe not only pleases your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch thanks to the chia seeds and fiber-rich oats.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and indulgent flavor reminiscent of cheesecake
- Packed with nutritious ingredients to fuel your day
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings
Understanding the Ingredients
The combination of rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and cream cheese creates a wonderfully creamy base for these cheesecake oats. The Greek yogurt not only adds protein but also contributes a tangy depth that balances the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut yogurt and almond milk. Both substitutes will maintain a similar creamy texture while infusing the dish with a lighter flavor.
Chia seeds are a powerhouse ingredient in this recipe, serving as a thickening agent and adding a delightful crunch. They absorb liquid as they sit, which helps the oats achieve that satisfying, pudding-like consistency. If you’re not a fan of chia seeds or if you have an allergy, ground flaxseed can be used in a 1:1 ratio, though you'll miss out on the texture.
The Importance of Chilling
Chilling the oats in the refrigerator is a crucial step for developing the flavors and achieving the right consistency. Allowing the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes results in perfectly soft oats and well-hydrated chia seeds. If you're preparing this the night before, the oats will have a thicker texture in the morning, making breakfast even more indulgent. Just make sure to stir the mixture well before serving, as it may thicken significantly.
For a creamier texture, you can increase the amount of Greek yogurt or cream cheese slightly, but be mindful that this can also increase the richness. Ideally, balance this with the right amount of sweetener, ensuring the dish doesn’t become overly heavy. Testing a small batch first can help you dial in your desired level of creaminess.
Ingredients
For the Oats
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon graham cracker crumbs
- Extra honey or syrup for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Oats
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is fully combined and the mixture is creamy.
Refrigerate
Cover the mixture and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a thicker consistency. This allows the oats to absorb the liquids and chia seeds to swell.
Top and Serve
Once the oats are ready, spoon them into bowls and top with sliced fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. Drizzle with extra honey or syrup if desired.
Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an added twist, feel free to substitute the strawberries with other berries or fruits like blueberries or mango. You can also add nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
While fresh strawberries are delicious on top, this recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even banana slices. Each fruit will bring its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize the oats to your liking. For a tropical twist, consider adding a bit of coconut or pineapple—both pair wonderfully with the creamy base.
For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in a handful of nuts or seeds, such as chopped almonds or toasted coconut flakes. They add a satisfying crunch and boost the nutritional value. Serve the oats in individual jars for a make-ahead breakfast option you can grab on-the-go, perfect for busy mornings!
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These Strawberry Cheesecake Oats can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When preparing multiple servings, consider using mason jars or airtight containers to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to eat, you can either enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or heat them up in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds if you prefer a warm breakfast.
If you find that the oats have thickened too much overnight, simply mix in a splash more milk or yogurt before serving. This will help restore the creamy texture. You can also freeze individual portions, which can last for up to a month—just make sure to leave out the fresh toppings until you've thawed and reheated the oats.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these oats vegan?
Yes! Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of dairy.
→ How long can I store the oats?
You can store the prepared oats in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just add fresh toppings before serving.
→ Can I make these oats ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, they taste even better when made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.
→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use a vegan cream cheese, cottage cheese, or even a thick nut butter as a substitute.
Strawberry Cheesecake Oats With Chia
I absolutely love starting my day with something wholesome and delicious, and these Strawberry Cheesecake Oats with Chia do just that! The creamy texture combined with the sweet and tangy strawberry flavor is so satisfying. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, making breakfast a breeze even on busy mornings. The chia seeds add a delightful crunch while providing a boost of nutrition. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it time and again.
Created by: Eliza Thornton
Recipe Type: Vitality Kitchen
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Oats
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon graham cracker crumbs
- Extra honey or syrup for drizzling (optional)
How-To Steps
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is fully combined and the mixture is creamy.
Cover the mixture and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a thicker consistency. This allows the oats to absorb the liquids and chia seeds to swell.
Once the oats are ready, spoon them into bowls and top with sliced fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. Drizzle with extra honey or syrup if desired.
Extra Tips
- For an added twist, feel free to substitute the strawberries with other berries or fruits like blueberries or mango. You can also add nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 160mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 10g