Strawberry Cream Oat Parfait Recipe

This strawberry cream oat parfait is something I make when I want breakfast to feel calm and a little comforting without being heavy. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and easy to prep ahead, which makes mornings smoother. I usually make a few jars at once and keep them in the fridge so breakfast is already done before the day really starts.

I started making oat parfaits during a stretch when I wanted something more filling than yogurt but still fresh and light. Adding oats gave the structure I was missing, and layering them with strawberries and a creamy element made it feel more intentional than a bowl of oatmeal. This version stuck because it’s balanced and doesn’t rely on a lot of sugar.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Parfaits traditionally refer to layered desserts, but modern breakfast versions have adapted the idea into more nourishing meals. Combining oats, fruit, and cream-style layers has become popular for make-ahead breakfasts that still feel a little special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for busy mornings
• Creamy but balanced: Rich without feeling heavy
• Naturally filling: Oats keep you satisfied
• Fresh and fruity: Strawberries brighten every bite
• No cooking required: Simple and quick
• Easy to customize: Adjust sweetness and texture
• Great texture contrast: Soft oats, creamy layer, juicy fruit

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Let oats soak fully: Improves texture
• Use ripe strawberries: Better flavor with less sweetener
• Layer evenly: Keeps each bite balanced
• Chill before eating: Helps everything set

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. Mixing bowl: For preparing oats
2. Measuring cups: For consistency
3. Spoon: For layering
4. Jars or glasses: For serving and storage

Ingredients in This Recipe

1. Rolled oats: Provide structure and staying power
2. Milk or milk alternative: Softens the oats
3. Greek yogurt or cream-style yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein
4. Fresh strawberries: Sweet, juicy, and bright
5. Honey or maple syrup: Light, natural sweetness
6. Vanilla extract: Adds warmth
7. Chia seeds (optional): Extra thickness and fiber
8. Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness

Ingredient Substitutions

• Rolled oats → quick oats: Softer texture
• Greek yogurt → coconut yogurt: Dairy-free option
• Strawberries → raspberries or blueberries: Easy swap
• Honey → maple syrup or agave: Plant-based option

Ingredient Spotlight

• Rolled oats: Absorb flavor and create a creamy base
• Strawberries: Add freshness and natural sweetness

Strawberry Cream Oat Parfait

This dessert-like breakfast features a layered combination of fresh strawberries, sweetened cream cheese, and soaking oats, creating a creamy and fruity mixture. The oats absorb the flavors, resulting in a soft, textured dish with vibrant fruit and smooth, chilled layers.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 2

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: Fusion

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• Rolled oats: Provide structure and staying power
• Milk or milk alternative: Softens the oats
• Greek yogurt or cream-style yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein
• Fresh strawberries: Sweet juicy, and bright
• Honey or maple syrup: Light natural sweetness
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth
• Chia seeds optional: Extra thickness and fiber
• Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness

Equipment

• Mixing bowl: For preparing oats
• Measuring cups: For consistency
• Spoon: For layering
• Jars or glasses: For serving and storage

Method

 

1. Prepare oats: Mix oats, milk, sweetener, vanilla, salt, and chia seeds if using
2. Chill: Refrigerate until oats are soft
3. Prepare strawberries: Slice or lightly mash
4. Layer: Spoon oats, yogurt, and strawberries into jars
5. Repeat layers: Until jars are full
6. Finish: Top with extra strawberries if desired

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store up to 3 days
• Keep covered: Prevents drying
• Stir before eating: If layers settle

How to Serve This Dish

• Cold from the fridge: Best texture
• With nuts: Adds crunch
• As a snack: Works beyond breakfast

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Smoothie base: Blend with milk
• Oat bowl: Stir together instead of layering
• Dessert-style parfait: Add chocolate shavings

Additional Tips

• Taste oats before layering: Adjust sweetness early
• Use seasonal fruit: Changes flavor naturally
• Prep multiple jars: Saves time

Make It a Showstopper

• Clean layers: Use a spoon carefully
• Top with mint: Adds color and freshness
• Serve in glass jars: Makes it feel special

Variations to Try

• Strawberry banana: Add sliced banana
• Chocolate strawberry: Add cocoa powder to oats
• Protein-packed: Add protein powder to yogurt
• Nutty version: Add almond butter
• Berry mix: Use multiple berries

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?: Yes, thaw first
2. Are these eaten cold?: Yes
3. Can I make them vegan?: Use plant-based yogurt and milk
4. Do oats need cooking?: No
5. How long do they last?: About 3 days
6. Can I reduce sugar?: Easily
7. Can kids eat this?: Yes
8. Can I add nuts?: Absolutely
9. Is this gluten-free?: Use certified gluten-free oats
10. Can I double the recipe?: Yes

Himani Jawa

Hi there! I’m Himani and welcome to Val’s Recipe Box. This little corner of the internet didn’t begin with me.
It began with Val my neighbourhood aunt whose kitchen held more warmth than any fireplace ever could.