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High Protein Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats - A Simple, Satisfying Make-Ahead Breakfast

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick or steel-cut)
  • Unsweetened milk of choice (dairy or dairy-free)
  • Plain or vanilla Greek yogurt (2% or 0%)
  • Vanilla whey or plant-based protein powder
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Chia seeds
  • Pure vanilla extract
  • Maple syrup or honey
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional “shortcake” crumble: crushed graham crackers or almond flour + a little butter or coconut oil
  • Optional add-ins: lemon zest, almond extract, shredded coconut, or a splash of strawberry jam

Method
 

  1. Prep the strawberries: Hull and dice 1 cup of fresh strawberries. If they’re not very sweet, toss with 1–2 teaspoons of maple syrup and let them sit for 5 minutes to macerate.
  2. Mix the dry base: In a medium bowl, add 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, a pinch of salt, and 1 scoop (about 25–30 g) vanilla protein powder. Stir to combine so there are no clumps of powder.
  3. Add the wet ingredients: Pour in 1/2 cup milk and 1/3 cup Greek yogurt. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey. Whisk until smooth and evenly mixed.
  4. Fold in the strawberries: Gently stir in most of the diced berries, saving a few for topping. If you like extra strawberry flavor, add 1 teaspoon strawberry jam or a little lemon zest.
  5. Transfer to a jar: Spoon the mixture into a jar or airtight container. Press down lightly to level the top and wipe the rim clean.
  6. Chill: Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. The chia and oats will soften and thicken the mixture.
  7. Make the “shortcake” crumble (optional): For crunch, mix 1 tablespoon crushed graham crackers with 1 teaspoon melted butter, or combine 1 tablespoon almond flour with 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil and a pinch of sugar. Set aside.
  8. Finish and serve: In the morning, give the oats a quick stir. If they’re too thick, add a splash of milk. Top with remaining strawberries and the crumble. Enjoy cold or let it warm to room temp for 10 minutes.