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 almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1 ripe banana, sliced; 1/2 cup strawberries, diced; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Food Studio

I love starting my day with a wholesome breakfast that’s both filling and delicious, and these Strawberry Banana Overnight Oats fit the bill perfectly! The combination of sweet strawberries and ripe bananas creates a delightful balance that's both refreshing and satisfying. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they're also packed with nutrients that keep me energized throughout the morning. Plus, they can be made in advance, making my busy mornings so much easier and tastier.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:45:37.083Z

When I first made these Strawberry Banana Overnight Oats, I was pleasantly surprised at how quick and easy they were to prepare. I simply mixed rolled oats with almond milk, and added in diced strawberries and banana. The next morning, I was greeted by a creamy, delicious breakfast that tasted like a treat but was actually good for me. This method works wonders because the oats soak up the flavors overnight, resulting in a beautifully blended taste.

One tip I love to share is that you can customize the toppings to fit your cravings! Whether it's a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of nuts, or a drizzle of honey, each variation adds its own charm to the oats. Trust me, the flavor combinations are endless.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy oats infused with the sweetness of ripe bananas and fresh strawberries
Convenient make-ahead option for busy mornings
Versatile and customizable with your favorite toppings

The Role of Oats

Rolled oats are the backbone of this recipe, providing a creamy texture when soaked. They absorb the almond milk overnight, resulting in a deliciously thick consistency that holds up well. If you're looking for an alternative, steel-cut oats can work, but keep in mind they require a longer soak time due to their heartier nature—expect to soak them at least 12 hours for optimal texture.

The natural flavor of rolled oats is subtle, allowing the ingredients like bananas and strawberries to shine. When combined with milk, oats also add essential nutrients like fiber, which helps in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. For a gluten-free option, be sure to choose certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.

Sweetening and Flavoring

In this recipe, the optional honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of strawberries. You can adjust the sweetness according to your preference; sometimes, I find the natural sugars in the ripe banana are enough. For a sugar-free option, consider using mashed dates or a splash of vanilla extract, which enhances the overall flavor without additional sweetness.

Don't be afraid to experiment with the vanilla extract as well. While it's optional, a few drops can enhance the flavor profile significantly, lending a lovely aromatic quality to the oats. Just be cautious not to overdo it; a little goes a long way.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

The beauty of Overnight Oats lies in their make-ahead convenience. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a perfect grab-and-go option for busy weekdays. For optimal freshness, I recommend consuming them within three days. Consider using airtight containers to keep the oats fresh and to prevent them from absorbing other odors from the fridge.

When it's time to serve, you can enjoy your oats cold straight from the refrigerator or give them a quick warm-up in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds. Top with additional fresh fruits, nuts, or seeds for added texture and nutrition. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of yogurt can also enhance the flavor and creaminess.

Ingredients

For the Oats

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1 ripe banana, sliced
1/2 cup strawberries, diced
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Mix all ingredients together in a jar or bowl and refrigerate overnight.

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, sliced banana, diced strawberries, honey or maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.

Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Enjoy!

In the morning, take the oats out of the refrigerator, give them a good stir, and enjoy them cold or warm them up in the microwave, if desired.

Add any additional toppings you desire before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the fruits based on what's in season or your personal favorites. You can also add chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra nutritional boost!

Variations

This recipe is highly customizable; feel free to swap in your favorite fruits based on what’s in season. For instance, peaches or blueberries can be fantastic alternatives. Simply chop them up in similar sizes to the strawberries and bananas for even soaking.

If you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mix. This is especially useful if you're eating these oats post-workout. Mix it in with the rolled oats before you add the liquids to ensure it blends well.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your Overnight Oats are too thick for your liking in the morning, simply stir in a little extra milk to reach your desired consistency. Each type of milk or liquid used may absorb differently, so adjust as needed for a creamy texture.

Sometimes, you may notice that the oats can dry out with the fruits absorbing moisture overnight, especially if they are on the riper side. If this happens, covering the oats with a layer of sliced fruit can help prevent over-absorption and keep the mixture balanced.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these overnight oats vegan?

Yes, simply use plant-based milk and skip the honey, or use maple syrup instead for sweetness.

→ How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?

Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep!

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be different. Instant oats absorb liquid faster and result in a creamier consistency.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or top them with nut butter for added richness and flavor.