Strawberry Yogurt Oat Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Yogurt Oat Parfaits
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 2 cups Greek yogurt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast, and these Strawberry Yogurt Oat Parfaits are a perfect way to do just that. Layering creamy yogurt with fresh strawberries and hearty oats not only provides a delightful texture but also a burst of flavor. This recipe is quick to assemble, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of oats and antioxidants from strawberries, all while tantalizing my taste buds.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:28:16.396Z

When I first experimented with making breakfast parfaits, I wanted something that was not only tasty but also nutritious. This combination of oats, yogurt, and strawberries hit the mark perfectly. One critical tip I’ve learned is to let the oats sit in yogurt for a few minutes to soften, which enhances the overall texture and makes for a more enjoyable experience.

As I layered the parfaits, I couldn’t help but admire how the vibrant red strawberries contrasted beautifully with the creamy yogurt. It became a ritual for me to look forward to this breakfast, and I've found that adding a drizzle of honey elevates the sweetness just a touch, making each bite utterly satisfying.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh strawberries provide a natural sweetness and are full of vitamins.
Creamy yogurt adds a rich element while keeping it light and healthy.
Versatile and customizable—perfect for any breakfast occasion!

      

Perfecting the Oat Mixture

The oat mixture serves as the nutritional backbone of this parfait. By mixing rolled oats with Greek yogurt, you're not only softening the oats but also allowing them to absorb the creaminess of the yogurt. This combination creates a satisfying texture that isn't overly mushy. Letting the mixture sit for about 5 minutes is key; during this time, the oats absorb moisture and become pleasantly tender but still offer a slight chew, just the right balance for your parfait.

If you're looking to make this parfait even more filling, consider adding a tablespoon of nut butter to the oat mixture. This not only enriches the dish with healthy fats and protein but also adds a delicious nutty flavor. Remember, you can adjust the yogurt's thickness by choosing different varieties; for example, opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamier experience, or go for a plant-based yogurt to accommodate dietary preferences.

Layering Like a Pro

When layering your parfait, it's important to keep in mind the visual appeal. Using clear serving glasses allows the beautiful colors of the strawberries and the creamy oat mixture to shine through. Start with a generous spoonful of the oat mixture, smoothing it out at the bottom to create a solid base. This foundation not only stabilizes the parfait but also ensures that the flavor profiles meld beautifully as you layer on the strawberries.

Experimenting with the layer ratios can also enhance the overall taste experience. If you love the freshness of strawberries, you might consider increasing the amount in each layer. Personally, I find that topping the parfait with an extra layer of strawberries creates a stunning finish and an enticing aroma—just be sure to keep the top layer intact to maintain an appealing presentation when served.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving this parfait immediately is ideal for enjoying the fresh texture of the strawberries and the creamy oat mix. However, if you want to prepare it in advance, consider assembling just the oat mixture and strawberries separately, then layering them right before serving. This prevents the strawberries from releasing too much juice into the oats, which can make them soggy over time. If you're storing it, keep the layers separate and assemble them within a day for the best results.

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply cover the parfait with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 24 hours. A quick stir before serving can help redistribute any absorbed moisture, bringing the parfait back to life. If you want to add a fresh element before eating, consider topping it with more fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious parfaits:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups Greek yogurt
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)

These simple ingredients will create a delightful breakfast that you can enjoy any day of the week!

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your parfait:

Prepare the Oats

In a bowl, mix the rolled oats with 1 cup of Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract if using. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the oats to absorb moisture.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving glasses, add a layer of the oat mixture, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of strawberries.

Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle chia seeds on top if you like, and drizzle with additional honey if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Enjoy your Strawberry Yogurt Oat Parfaits for a refreshing breakfast!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the strawberries with your favorite fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or bananas for some variety.

Ingredient Substitutions

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its versatility. If you're out of Greek yogurt, regular yogurt or even cottage cheese can serve as excellent substitutes, each bringing a different texture and flavor. For the rolled oats, steel-cut oats can work too, but they require a longer soak time. Just remember that they'll be chewier and may not absorb flavors the same way as rolled oats.

For those looking to reduce sugar, consider using mashed bananas or unsweetened apple sauce in place of honey or maple syrup. Both options provide natural sweetness and additional nutrients while keeping the overall dish light and flavorful. If you’re avoiding simple sugars altogether, a sprinkle of cinnamon can also elevate the flavor without added sweetness.

Make-Ahead Variations

You can easily customize this parfait for different dietary preferences or seasonal availability. For a fall twist, swap out the strawberries for spiced apples or pears. Simply sauté diced apples in a little cinnamon until tender, then layer them in each glass for a warm flavor profile. You can also incorporate nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

If you're cooking for a crowd, consider scaling this recipe up. The proportions can be doubled or tripled easily, and because the parfaits can be made in advance, they work wonderfully for brunch gatherings or meal prep. Just be sure to account for the extra time to layer your ingredients in larger containers or more glasses.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these parfaits in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the parfaits a few hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What type of yogurt works best?

Greek yogurt is preferred for its creaminess and higher protein content, but you can use any yogurt you enjoy.

→ Can I use instant oats instead?

Yes, you can use instant oats, but they will create a different texture and might not need to sit as long.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These parfaits are great for meal prep—just store the components separately and assemble them as needed.