Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup cottage cheese; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Healthy Flavor Creations

I absolutely love starting my day with these Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits. The creamy blend of cottage cheese and Greek yogurt mimics the richness of cheesecake, while the fresh strawberries add a burst of sweetness that kicks off my morning right. The oats provide a hearty base, making this not only a delicious treat but also a filling breakfast. I enjoy layering the ingredients in a jar for a visually appealing presentation that motivates me to eat well!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-02-15T08:05:36.154Z

During one of my weekend brunch experiments, I decided to combine my favorite dessert flavors into a breakfast parfait. The result was these Strawberry Cheesecake Oat Parfaits, which pleasantly surprised me with their richness and flavor. The key is to use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness, which truly elevates the dish.

I've found that letting the oats soak in the yogurt mixture for just a few minutes helps them soften beautifully without losing their texture. This parfait not only tastes great but also packs in the nutrition to keep me satisfied throughout the morning!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy cheesecake flavor in a nutritious breakfast format
Fresh strawberries add vibrant color and natural sweetness
Easily customizable with your favorite fruits or toppings

Mastering the Layering Technique

When layering your parfaits, it’s important to ensure that each ingredient shines through. Start with a base of oats to provide a sturdy foundation. A tip I use is to let the oats absorb some moisture from the yogurt mixture before layering. This not only improves texture but also adds a satisfying chew. Be sure to spoon each layer gently to maintain distinct layers, which enhances the visual appeal of your parfait.

Consider the balance of flavors and textures while layering. For instance, placing a thicker layer of the yogurt mixture between the oats and strawberries creates a lovely creamy middle that complements the fresh fruit. This not only improves the overall taste with each spoonful but also keeps the parfait from becoming too mushy. Aim for a ratio of equal parts oats, yogurt mixture, and strawberries for the best results.

Customizing Your Parfaits

One of the great joys of this recipe is its versatility. If strawberries aren't in season, feel free to substitute with other berries like blueberries or raspberries. You can also experiment with diced peaches or mango, which add a lovely tropical twist. Just keep in mind that each fruit has a different moisture level, so it may slightly alter the parfait's consistency.

For a nuttier flavor profile, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or chia seeds, between the layers. This not only enhances the texture but also boosts the nutritional value of your breakfast. You can also switch up the sweetener—agave syrup or even a sugar-free sweetener can be incredible alternatives depending on your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Parfaits

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup cottage cheese
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Feel free to mix in other berries or nuts for added flavor and crunch!

Instructions

Prepare the Yogurt Mixture

In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving glasses or jars, layer the oats, followed by a layer of the yogurt mixture, and then a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

Chill and Serve

For best results, let the parfaits chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

These parfaits are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to two days.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different fruits like blueberries or bananas for variety. You can also add nuts or granola on top for a crunchy texture!

Make-Ahead Tips

These strawberry cheesecake oat parfaits make for an excellent make-ahead breakfast option. You can prepare the yogurt mixture and layer the oats and strawberries the night before. Just keep the parfaits covered in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay fresh and delicious. I recommend eating them within two days for optimal flavor and freshness.

If you're worried about the texture of the oats, consider soaking them in milk or water for a few hours before assembling the parfaits. This will soften them and allow for a creamier result. Just remember to adjust the amount of yogurt and liquid accordingly if you're making adjustments to keep the parfait thick and satisfying.

Storage and Serving Ideas

If you have leftovers, you can store the parfaits in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last up to three days, but keep in mind that the longer they sit, the softer the oats will become. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider storing the oats separately from the yogurt and fruit mixture until you're ready to serve.

These parfaits are also perfect for brunch gatherings. You can set up a parfait bar with an assortment of toppings like granola, chocolate chips, or nut butter, allowing guests to customize their creations. This interactive element can make serving fun and engaging while ensuring everyone can enjoy their parfait just the way they like it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these parfaits ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them the night before and store them in the fridge for a quick breakfast.

→ Is there a dairy-free version?

Absolutely! Substitute Greek yogurt and cottage cheese with dairy-free alternatives like almond or coconut yogurt.

→ How can I sweeten this recipe without honey?

You can use agave syrup, pure maple syrup, or even mashed ripe bananas for natural sweetness.

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but note that instant oats will become softer more quickly, so reduce soaking time accordingly.