Strawberries and Cream Oats: A Delicious and Healthy Breakfast Recipe

Strawberries and Cream Oats: the breakfast of champions, or at least, the breakfast that makes you feel like a champion! Imagine waking up to a bowl of creamy, dreamy goodness, bursting with the fresh, sweet flavor of ripe strawberries. It’s not just breakfast; it’s a little slice of summer sunshine in a bowl, no matter the season.

While the exact origins of combining oats with fruit and cream are a bit hazy, the concept itself is rooted in simple, wholesome traditions. Oats have been a staple grain for centuries, providing sustenance and warmth, particularly in colder climates. The addition of fresh berries and creamy dairy is a natural evolution, a way to elevate a humble grain into something truly special. Think of it as a modern twist on the classic porridge, infused with the vibrant flavors of the season.

So, why do people adore Strawberries and Cream Oats? It’s the perfect trifecta of taste, texture, and convenience. The creamy oats provide a comforting, satisfying base, while the juicy strawberries offer a burst of sweetness and a delightful textural contrast. And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of a dish that feels indulgent but is actually packed with fiber and nutrients? Plus, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it the ideal breakfast for busy mornings or a delightful treat any time of day. Get ready to experience breakfast bliss!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
• 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy, I prefer almond milk)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey, agave, or your favorite sweetener)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
• Optional toppings: chia seeds, flax seeds, chopped nuts, extra strawberries

Preparing the Oats:

1. Combine the oats, milk, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. I like to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent sticking, but any medium-sized pot will do. Make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the oats as they expand during cooking.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Keep a close eye on it, as milk can easily boil over. Stir occasionally to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the oats are tender and the liquid is absorbed. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of oats you use and your stove. Stir occasionally during simmering to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for a creamy, porridge-like consistency. If the oats are too thick, add a splash more milk. If they’re too thin, continue simmering uncovered for a minute or two.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract. This is where you can adjust the sweetness to your liking. Taste the oats and add more maple syrup if needed. The vanilla extract adds a lovely warmth and depth of flavor.

Preparing the Strawberries and Cream:

1. Wash and hull the strawberries. This is a crucial step! Make sure to remove all the green parts. I find it easiest to use a small paring knife to hull the strawberries.
2. Slice the strawberries. I prefer to slice them thinly, but you can cut them into any size you like. The thinner the slices, the more easily they’ll incorporate into the oats.
3. Prepare the cream. If you’re using heavy cream, you can simply pour it into a small bowl. If you’re using coconut cream, you may need to whisk it lightly to loosen it up. For a sweeter cream, you can add a touch of maple syrup or powdered sugar to the cream and whisk until combined.

Assembling the Strawberries and Cream Oats:

1. Spoon the cooked oats into a bowl. I like to use a large bowl so I have plenty of room for toppings.
2. Top with the sliced strawberries. Arrange the strawberries artfully on top of the oats, or simply pile them on. It’s up to you!
3. Drizzle with heavy cream (or coconut cream). Be generous with the cream! It adds a rich and decadent touch to the oats.
4. Add any optional toppings you like. I love to sprinkle on some chia seeds, flax seeds, or chopped nuts for added texture and nutrition. A few extra strawberry slices never hurt either!
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! These oats are best enjoyed warm. The combination of the creamy oats, sweet strawberries, and rich cream is simply divine.

Tips and Variations:

Make it ahead: You can prepare the oats ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. You may need to add a splash of milk to loosen them up. I recommend adding the strawberries and cream just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Use different fruits: Feel free to substitute other fruits for the strawberries. Blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or sliced bananas would all be delicious. You could even use a combination of fruits.

Add protein: For a more filling breakfast, add a scoop of protein powder to the oats after they’re cooked. You can also stir in some Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.

Make it vegan: To make this recipe vegan, use non-dairy milk (such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk) and coconut cream. You can also use agave nectar or another vegan sweetener instead of maple syrup.

Add spices: For a warmer flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the oats while they’re cooking.

Try different extracts: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond extract, lemon extract, or orange extract.

Sweeten it up: If you prefer a sweeter breakfast, add more maple syrup or honey to the oats. You can also add a sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Add some crunch: For added texture, sprinkle on some granola, chopped nuts, or toasted coconut flakes.

Make it chocolatey: Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the oats while they’re cooking for a chocolatey twist. You can also add some chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Use steel-cut oats: While this recipe is written for rolled oats, you can also use steel-cut oats. However, steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time. You’ll need to simmer them for about 20-30 minutes, or until they’re tender.

Overnight Oats Version: For a no-cook option, combine all the ingredients (except the cream) in a jar or container. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, top with the cream and enjoy! This is a great option for busy mornings.

Adjusting the Liquid: The amount of liquid you need may vary depending on the type of oats you use and your personal preference. If the oats are too thick, add more milk or water. If they’re too thin, continue simmering uncovered for a few minutes to allow the excess liquid to evaporate.

Salt is Key: Don’t skip the salt! A small amount of salt enhances the sweetness of the oats and balances the flavors.

Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries: While fresh strawberries are best, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just thaw them slightly before slicing. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more liquid, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe.

Warming the Strawberries: For a cozy winter breakfast, gently warm the sliced strawberries in a saucepan with a touch of maple syrup and a squeeze of lemon juice. This will bring out their natural sweetness and create a delicious compote.

Adding Seeds: Chia seeds and flax seeds are great additions for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Add them to the oats while they’re cooking or sprinkle them on top as a topping.

Nut Butter Boost: A spoonful of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter adds healthy fats and protein to your breakfast. Stir it into the oats after they’re cooked.

Spice it Up (Literally!): A pinch of cardamom or a dash of chai spice blend can add a unique and flavorful twist to your strawberries and cream oats.

Don’t Overcook: Overcooked oats can become gummy and unpleasant. Keep a close eye on them while they’re simmering and remove them from the heat as soon as they’re tender.

Serving Suggestions: These oats are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a side of toast, fruit salad, or a cup of coffee or tea.

Storage: Leftover oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Experiment with Toppings: The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings! Get creative and try different combinations of fruits, nuts, seeds,

Conclusion:

This Strawberries and Cream Oats recipe isn’t just breakfast; it’s a delightful experience that will transform your mornings! I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious way to start their day. The creamy texture, the burst of fresh strawberry flavor, and the comforting warmth of the oats combine to create a symphony of sensations that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. It’s a simple recipe, yes, but the impact it has on your taste buds is anything but ordinary.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s more than just a bowl of oats. It’s a little bit of sunshine in a bowl, a reminder that even the simplest things in life can be incredibly enjoyable. It’s also incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt it to your dietary needs and preferences. Need a gluten-free option? Simply use gluten-free oats. Looking for a vegan version? Swap the dairy milk for almond, soy, or oat milk and use a plant-based cream alternative. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! While fresh strawberries are the star of the show, you can also add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost. For a more decadent treat, try adding a few chocolate shavings or a swirl of Nutella.

Here are a few more ideas to spark your imagination:

* Berry Blast: Add other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry explosion.
* Tropical Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut and diced mango for a tropical-inspired breakfast.
* Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm and comforting flavor.
* Peanut Butter Power: Swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter for a protein-packed and satisfying meal.
* Overnight Oats: Prepare the oats the night before and let them soak in the refrigerator for a grab-and-go breakfast in the morning. This is perfect for busy weekdays!

I’ve personally experimented with all of these variations, and each one is a winner in its own right. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Time to Get Cooking!

I’m so excited for you to try this Strawberries and Cream Oats recipe. I know you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself to a delicious and healthy breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a fantastic way to use up those beautiful, ripe strawberries you find at the farmers market or grocery store.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to whip up a bowl of pure breakfast bliss. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, experiment, and savor every moment.

Once you’ve tried this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using #StrawberriesAndCreamOats and tag me so I can see your creations. Let me know what variations you tried and what you thought of the recipe. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes for you. Happy cooking, and happy eating! I can’t wait to see what you come up with!

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June 27, 2025 by Melissa