Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or almond milk); 1/2 cup strawberries, chopped; 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon graham cracker crumbs; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Smart Ideas

I love starting my day with a breakfast that feels like dessert, and this Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal is the perfect solution. It blends creamy cheesecake flavor with wholesome ingredients, creating a delicious meal that's both satisfying and guilt-free. Fresh strawberries add a bright note, while a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs bring the essence of cheesecake right to your breakfast table. It's a simple recipe that can be prepared in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:37:36.020Z

When I first tried this Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. The creaminess of the oatmeal mirrors that of traditional cheesecake, and the fresh strawberries add a burst of sweetness. One tip that I've found to enhance the flavor is to let the oatmeal sit for a few minutes after cooking; it allows the ingredients to meld and the strawberries to infuse their flavor throughout.

Using real cream cheese in the mix adds that authentic cheesecake flavor and a delightful creaminess that makes every bite feel indulgent. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients that keep me full throughout the morning. I can’t get enough of this recipe, and I’m sure you’ll love it too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicious blend of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries
Healthy enough for breakfast, yet indulgent for dessert
Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes

      

Ingredient Insights

The rolled oats in this recipe serve as the base, offering a hearty texture and a good source of fiber, which keeps you feeling full throughout the morning. Opting for traditional rolled oats rather than steel-cut oats ensures a creamy, quick-cooking result. If you're pressed for time, instant oats can also be used, but the texture will be slightly less creamy, so be sure to watch the cooking time closely, as they require only about 1-2 minutes to cook with boiling water.

Cream cheese is pivotal in achieving that signature cheesecake flavor in this oatmeal. When warmed, it becomes silky smooth, integrating perfectly with the oats. Softening the cream cheese before adding it, either by leaving it out at room temperature or microwaving it for about 10 seconds, ensures it blends without clumps. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist without sacrificing creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal can be customized to your liking. Consider adding a scoop of nut butter or a sprinkle of nuts for added protein and crunch. You could also swap fresh strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries, which offer their unique flavors while maintaining the refreshing quality. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the dish, adding warmth that complements the sweetness of the oatmeal.

To enjoy this dish throughout the week, you can prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the texture before serving. For an extra special brunch treat, consider adding whipped cream and a dash of lemon zest on top for an elegant finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups milk (or almond milk)
1/2 cup strawberries, chopped
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon graham cracker crumbs
Pinch of salt

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to prepare the oatmeal.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal:

Cook the Oats

In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats are creamy.

Mix in the Flavor

Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the cream cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined. The heat will melt the cream cheese, creating a rich, creamy texture.

Add Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, reserving a few for topping if desired. Let the oatmeal sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve and Garnish

Spoon the oatmeal into bowls and top with extra strawberries and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for that cheesecake touch.

Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal!

Pro Tips

For an extra creamy texture, you can blend the cooked oatmeal with a splash more milk before serving. This recipe is also versatile
feel free to swap in other fruits or add a dollop of yogurt on top for more protein.

Storing and Freezing

If you have leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to return it to its creamy consistency. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider preparing individual servings in jars, allowing for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze portions of oatmeal. Scoop the cooled oats into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. They can keep well in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a bit of milk to help restore texture.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your oatmeal turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit more milk during the cooking process or after it's finished to achieve your desired consistency. Oats can absorb a lot of liquid, so adjust as needed based on your preferences. Conversely, if it's too runny, you can simmer it a little longer to condense the liquid while stirring frequently to avoid burning.

For those sensitive to dairy, using almond milk and substituting the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like cashew cream, keeps the dish both creamy and delicious. Just ensure that any substitutes maintain the same ratios to keep the flavor profile balanced and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this oatmeal in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the oatmeal a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it with a splash of milk and add fresh strawberries before serving.

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but note that quick oats will cook faster and may have a softer texture. Adjust the cooking time to about 1-3 minutes.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to keep the recipe creamy while changing the flavor profile.

→ How can I make this oatmeal sweeter?

You can increase the amount of maple syrup or add a bit of honey or brown sugar according to your taste preference.