Are you struggling to figure out how to make creamy oatmeal with all plant-based ingredients? This guide is for you! I know the struggles, for some reason that comforting bowl of hot, creamy oatmeal was really hard for me to attain! I finally figured it out and in this post, we’ll explore the many delicious and creative ways to make plant-based oatmeal that’s creamy and delicious. We’ll look at the different types of plant-based milk and other ingredients that can be used to make creamy oatmeal and the different methods you can use to make the perfect bowl of oatmeal. So, let’s get into it!
Why Choose Plant-Based Oatmeal
Are you wondering why you should choose plant-based oatmeal over traditional oatmeal? Well, I have plenty of reasons to convince you! Plant-based oatmeal is not only delicious and creamy, but it also offers numerous health benefits.
First, it’s a great choice for those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies. By using plant-based milk instead of dairy milk, you can still enjoy a creamy bowl of oatmeal without any discomfort or adverse reactions. Diary products are also high in unhealthy saturated fat which makes weight loss or maintenance more difficult.
Plant-based oatmeal is also cholesterol-free. This is because it does not contain any animal products or by-products, which are high in cholesterol. By choosing plant-based options, you can help improve your heart health and lower your risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Plant-based oatmeal is packed with nutrients and fiber. Oats themselves are a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion, helps you feel fuller for longer, and supports a healthy gut. Plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, is often fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.
So, if you’re looking to make a healthier and equally delicious choice, plant-based oatmeal is the way to go!
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Plant-Based Oatmeal
If you want to create the creamiest, most delicious plant-based oatmeal, you have to have the right ingredients on hand. While oats are obviously the star of the show, there are a few key ingredients that can take your oatmeal from a good to an absolutely amazing hearty breakfast.
1. Oats
The first thing to consider is your oats. Quick oats tend to breakdown easier and get a creamier texture, something like cream of wheat, but they also won’t keep you full as long. Quick cooking oats are broken down into smaller pieces to cook faster which means your body also processes them faster. Whole old fashioned rolled oats or steel cut oats are a better choice overall, but will retain a little bit of a chewy texture. You can still make these types creamy though, so I recommend whole oats rather than instant oats.
2. Water
Start by cooking your oats in cold water. Alternatively, you can cook your oats directly in plant based milk (more about plant based milks below), but if you want to keep calories lower, start with water. I also find it’s cheaper to cook with water and use less plant based milk so your milk goes further. You’ll end up with creamy oatmeal either way, so just choose what works best for you.
3. Salt
If you’re salt free, you can skip this, but it’s just a tiny pinch of salt so it’s no big deal for most people. This brings out the nuttiness in the flavor of those delicious old fashioned oats.
4. Natural Sweetener
For extra sweetness, try adding a natural sweetener like maple syrup, honey (if not strictly vegan), or dates. These sweeteners not only enhance the flavor but also add a touch of decadence to your oatmeal. Maple syrup is my personal favorite for sweetening any creamy oatmeal recipe.
5. Nut Butter
To add some richness to your oatmeal, consider using a spoonful of nut butter. Nut butters like almond, cashew, or peanut butter can all lend a creamy and indulgent flavor to your bowl of oats. Just stir it in while your oatmeal is still cooking, and watch as it melts into the mixture. If you prefer, you can warm it up and drizzle it lightly over the top of your old-fashioned oats after they finish cooking.
6. Spices
Lastly, don’t forget about spices! Cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, or even a pinch of cardamom can elevate your oatmeal to new heights. These warm and aromatic spices add depth and complexity to your bowl of oats. You can even add a cinnamon stick to your stovetop oatmeal while it’s cooking for a really great flavor! Just take it out before you eat your oatmeal.
7. Plant based milk
Add a splash of milk after you cook the oats. The kind of milk you use will make a difference in the taste and consistency of your oatmeal. Instead of using dairy milk, opt for plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk. These milks not only provide a creamy texture but also add a subtle sweetness to your oatmeal. For the lowest calories, opt for almond milk. High fat milk will always make the creamiest oatmeal, but if you use my tips, you’ll still have creamy oatmeal with low-fat milk choices.
8. Toppings
Adding your favorite toppings is one of the best parts about oatmeal because you can switch it up so much! Add fresh fruits, dried fruits (which are much higher in calories so go sparingly), sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes, or even a few chocolate chips. Frozen cherries and a few dark chocolate chips is one of my favorite ways to enjoy creamy oats!
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Oatmeal
- Always use fresh cold water and add your oats to the cold water while you’re waiting for it to come to a boil.
- If you don’t want to add milk to your oats for creaminess, add a smashed banana while they’re cooking instead.
- Let the oatmeal rest for a few minutes after cooking, it will get creamier as it cools.
- Use old fashioned oats for the best creamy texture.
Delicious Creamy Plant Based Oatmeal Recipes to Try
Now that you have all the knowledge and tips you need to make creamy and delicious plant-based oatmeal, it’s time to put them into action with some amazing recipes. Here are a few recipes to inspire you and get you started on your plant-based oatmeal journey.
Coconut Mango Oatmeal: Combine rolled oats, coconut milk, and a dash of vanilla extract in a saucepan. Cook until the oats are tender and creamy. Top with fresh mango slices, shredded coconut, and a sprinkle of chia seeds for added texture.
PB&J Oatmeal: Cook your oats with almond milk and a spoonful of peanut butter until creamy. Swirl in a spoonful of raspberry or strawberry jam and top with fresh berries, crushed peanuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Chocolate Banana Oatmeal: Add cocoa powder to your oats while cooking with almond milk for a chocolatey base. Slice a ripe banana on top and sprinkle with dark chocolate chips and a spoonful of almond butter for a decadent treat.
Savory Herb Oatmeal: Instead of sweet flavors, try a savory twist. Cook your oats in vegetable broth and add a pinch of garlic powder, dried herbs like thyme and rosemary, and a handful of sautéed mushrooms. Top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
Apple Pie Oatmeal: Cook your oats with almond milk, cinnamon, and a diced apple until tender. Top with a dollop of coconut cream, a sprinkle of granola, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a comforting and delicious breakfast.
These recipes are just the beginning, and you can get creative and add your favorite flavors and toppings to make your plant-based oatmeal truly your own. Enjoy exploring the world of creamy and delicious plant-based oatmeal and start improving your health today!
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