Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk or yogurt of your choice; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Wellness Kitchen

I absolutely love starting my day with these Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits! The combination of creamy cheesecake flavors and fresh strawberries creates a delightful breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome. The oats provide a satisfying texture, while the sweetness of the strawberries balances perfectly with the creamy yogurt. Prepping this dish is a breeze, making it a go-to option for busy mornings or even a lovely brunch treat. Pairing everything in a glass not only makes it visually appealing but also allows for the ingredients to shine while layering together their flavors beautifully.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-15T08:05:36.615Z

When I first attempted these Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits, I wanted a quick breakfast option that didn’t compromise on flavor. I found that using overnight oats with a touch of cream cheese really brought out the cheesecake flavor I crave. The freshness of seasonal strawberries truly elevates the dish and makes it feel special!

One tip I want to share is to let the oats soak for at least 30 minutes before assembling the parfaits. This helps them soften up perfectly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Storing them in individual jars also makes them a convenient grab-and-go meal option!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy cheesecake delight combines with wholesome oats
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color
Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep

The Role of Oats in the Parfait

In these Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits, rolled oats serve as a nourishing base that adds both texture and health benefits. Oats are a great source of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer. When mixed with milk or yogurt, they soften and absorb the flavors, enhancing the overall creaminess of the parfait. For a gluten-free option, consider using certified gluten-free oats, which ensure that those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this delightful dish without worry.

One tip for perfect oats is allowing them to sit for the minimum recommended time of 30 minutes. This resting period not only thickens the mixture but also allows the oats to fully hydrate, resulting in a palatable texture. If you're short on time, you can microwave the oat mixture for 1-2 minutes to achieve a softer consistency quickly. Just be wary of overcooking, which can make your oats gummy.

Creating the Cheesecake Layer

The cheesecake layer is what makes this parfait feel like a decadent treat. By using softened cream cheese, you're ensuring a smooth consistency that blends seamlessly with the sweeteners. It's crucial to cream the cheese well to avoid any lumps; use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. This will also help incorporate air into the mixture, making it light and fluffy—a delightful contrast against the dense oat layer.

For a lighter option, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for additional protein and tanginess while reducing the fat content. This will still yield a deliciously creamy layer that complements the strawberries beautifully. Just remember to adjust the sweetness to your liking, as yogurt can add a slightly sour note.

Serving and Storing Your Parfaits

Once assembled, these parfaits make for visually stunning breakfast servings. You can layer them in mason jars or elegant glasses for a brunch presentation that impresses. If you're prepping in advance, just be aware that the strawberries can release moisture over time. To combat this, you might choose to add them closer to serving time if possible. Otherwise, slice your strawberries just before assembly for maximum freshness and a pop of color.

These parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, the oats will continue to absorb moisture, impacting the texture. If you're planning to enjoy them later in the week, consider packaging the components separately—store the oats and cream cheese layer in one container and the strawberries in another—to ensure the freshest possible flavors when you're ready to feast.

Ingredients

Collect the following ingredients to make these delicious parfaits:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk or yogurt of your choice
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh to enhance the flavors!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your parfaits:

Prepare the Oats

In a bowl, mix the rolled oats and milk or yogurt. Stir in the honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract. Let this mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to thicken.

Make the Cheesecake Layer

In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with a little honey or maple syrup until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Parfaits

In jars or glasses, layer the oat mixture, a layer of the cream cheese mixture, and sliced strawberries. Repeat until jars are filled, finishing with strawberries on top.

Top Off

Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the top if desired and chill before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor. Don't hesitate to swap out strawberries for your favorite berries, like blueberries or raspberries, depending on what you have available.

Important Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to reduce sugar, feel free to swap honey or maple syrup for a sugar-free sweetener such as stevia or erythritol. Keep in mind that these substitutes can vary in sweetness, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste. For a richer flavor, brown sugar could also be used in place of white sugar to give a touch of depth to the cheesecake layer.

For a dairy-free option, you might replace cream cheese with a vegan alternative made from cashews or a store-bought cream cheese substitute. Similarly, almond milk or coconut yogurt could replace conventional dairy options in this recipe, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the parfait without sacrificing flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the kinds of fruits you use! While strawberries are delightful, blueberries, raspberries, or even bananas can provide interesting flavor notes and textures. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness, and seasonal fruits will enhance your parfait throughout the year. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the oat mixture to elevate the flavors even more.

Another variation is to add a layer of nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, between the oats and the cheesecake layer. This addition introduces a wonderful nuttiness and additional texture. Just make sure to consider the balance of sweetness, as nut butters can vary significantly in flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your parfaits have come out too soggy, it may be that the oats absorbed too much liquid or the strawberries sat too long. To fix this for next time, ensure that you are measuring ingredients accurately and consider reducing the milk slightly if you prefer a thicker texture. Additionally, layering the ingredients directly before serving can prevent moisture buildup.

In case the cream cheese layer isn't blending smoothly, remember that it should be at room temperature before mixing. If you find lumps after mixing, try using a blender for a more even consistency. This ensures a silky texture that can be easily spread through your parfait, making every bite deliciously creamy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these oatmeal parfaits ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What type of milk works best for this recipe?

You can use any milk or non-dairy alternative you prefer. Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk all work well!

→ Can I substitute the honey?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes if you're looking for a vegan option.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats and ensure that your graham crackers are gluten-free if you're using them.