What better way to start your day than with one of these healthy oatmeal recipes? Whether it’s classic stove-top oatmeal, overnight oats, baked oatmeal or muffins we’ve got you covered for all of your oatmeal needs!
The other day I shared my go-to recipe for how to make oatmeal. Having a classic oatmeal base recipe in your back pocket is essential for those mornings when you’re not sure what to make for a healthy breakfast.
That being said, oats really are just a base for all the delicious toppings. Rather than just overloading you in my how to post, I thought I’d share some of my favorite oatmeal recipes including oatmeal bars, cups, bakes and balls. But just to recap some important info:
3 Different Types of Oats
- Old Fashioned Rolled oats – these are the classic oats you imagine when you picture oatmeal. For rolled oats the oat groats have been steamed and rolled (hence the “rolled oats” name) so they are slightly more processed but still a very healthy breakfast option. Steaming and rolling the oats helps to speed up the cooking time so these are a great option for busy mornings.
- Steel-Cut Oats – These are the least processed of all of the oat varieties. The oat groat in this case has been cut into 2 or 3 parts but otherwise left whole. This makes them the healthiest option and also the highest in fiber but they do take longer to cook.
- Quick or Instant Oats – these are the most processed of all the oat varieties. Like old fashioned rolled oats the oat groat has been steamed and rolled but in this case they are rolled even more and then cut up smaller. This means they cook extremely fast but I also find the texture a bit mushy and you don’t get that creamy oatmeal we all know and love.
Oatmeal Ratio
Your oats to liquid ratio is dependent on the types of oats you’re using. If you’re using old-fashioned oats or quick cook oats your ratio is 1:2. If you’re using steel-cut oats your ratio is 1:3.
Oatmeal Toppings
- Fruit – apples, bananas and berries are my go-to but you can use any type of fruit you like. Dried fruit also works great!
- Spices – cinnamon is my go-to when it comes to adding spices to oatmeal but feel free to add whichever spices you prefer. Nutmeg, cloves, ginger and cardamom are all great additions!
- Nuts & Seeds – for a little added crunch you really can’t go wrong with nuts and seeds. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds or even cashews are delicious. You can also had a dollop of any nut butter.
- Yogurt – For a protein boost and a little added creaminess add a scoop of your favorite yogurt.
- Protein Powder – You can always add your favorite protein powder to your bowl of oatmeal. Note that sometimes protein powder can make oatmeal a little dry and thick so you’ll want to add a little extra liquid.
- Sweeteners – Brown sugar, coconut sugar, honey, maple syrup or even date syrup are all delicious toppings on your oatmeal recipes.
- Fiber-boosts – chia seeds and ground flaxseed are great options to give your oatmeal a fiber boost.
If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next healthy breakfast recipes look no further than these 25 oatmeal recipes to get you started.