Ingredients
Oats Base
- ½ cup steel cut oats
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Toppings
- fresh cherries or berries, to taste
- chocolate chips, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the oats: In a saucepot, combine the steel cut oats, water, and milk. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, bringing it to a rapid boil while carefully monitoring to prevent it from boiling over. Once boiling, reduce the heat and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Remove from heat.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the pure vanilla extract and ground cinnamon into the cooked oats while they are still warm to infuse flavor.
- Refrigerate the oats: Allow the oats to cool for a few minutes, then divide them evenly into two containers or small mason jars with lids. Seal and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to soften the oats and enhance their texture.
- Prepare to serve: Before serving, if the oats are too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen and make them creamier. Stir gently to combine.
- Add toppings and enjoy: Top the oat mixture with fresh cherries or berries and a sprinkling of chocolate chips. Serve chilled and enjoy a nutritious, ready-to-eat breakfast.
Notes
- Using steel cut oats requires a quick initial cooking to soften them before refrigeration; do not skip this step for best texture.
- The cinnamon is optional, but adds a warm spice that complements the oats and vanilla.
- Add milk just before serving to adjust creaminess according to preference.
- The oats can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to swap toppings for nuts, seeds, or other fruits as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
