9 Dairy-Free Carnation Instant Breakfast Dupes To Make At Home

Carnation Instant Breakfast products are a convenient and easy-to-prepare breakfast option many people enjoy. They are full of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and protein and are low in fat! However, unfortunately, these tasty powders are not dairy-free, which is enough reason to keep many people away from touching them. But we have a solution!

Ditch the dairy but not the convenience! Carnation Instant Breakfast might not be naturally dairy-free, but that doesn’t mean you must miss out on a quick and nutritious morning meal. By getting creative in the kitchen, you can whip up delicious dairy-free home alternatives that are as satisfying as the original.

From DIY instant breakfast mixes packed with customisable ingredients to overnight oats prepped the night before, we’ll explore various options to jumpstart your day the dairy-free way.

Things to Consider When Making Carnation Instant Breakfast Dupes

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There are many ways to create your breakfast mixes at home; we will get to that in a minute. However, before preparing ingredients, let’s see what benefits of Carnation Instant Breakfast we want to replicate in our recipes.

Convenience

The biggest advantage of Carnation Instant Breakfast is its ease of preparation. Replicate this by creating mixes that require minimal effort in the morning. Pre-portioning dry ingredients into single-serving containers makes them ready to grab and go with just the addition of liquid.

Nutrient Content

Carnation Instant Breakfast offers a decent amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals. When crafting your homemade mix, focus on including ingredients that contribute similar nutrients:

• Protein: Use rolled oats, nuts, seeds, or even protein powder for a protein boost.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Opt for ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseed, and fortified plant-based milk for various vitamins and minerals.

Balanced Macronutrients

Aim for a balanced protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in your homemade mix. This will help keep you fuller for longer and provide sustained energy throughout the morning.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• Flavour: Carnation Instant Breakfast comes in various flavours, making it appealing. Explore different dried fruits, spices, and natural flavour combinations to create delicious and exciting homemade mixes.
• Customisation: A homemade mix allows you to tailor ingredients to your dietary needs and preferences. You can control the amount of sugar and ensure it’s free from artificial ingredients or allergens.

By focusing on these aspects, you can create convenient, nutritious, and delicious dairy-free breakfast mixes that rival Carnation Instant Breakfast but offer a more natural and customisable approach. Now that you have all their secret powers, let’s create our instant breakfast recipes!

Carnation Instant Breakfast Alternative Recipes To Make at Home

Missing the ease of Carnation Instant Breakfast but following a dairy-free lifestyle? Don’t fret! This section is packed with ten exciting breakfast recipes you can whip up at home, offering the same convenience with a healthier and customisable twist.

Each recipe focuses on replicating the benefits of Carnation Instant Breakfast – protein, vitamins, and quick preparation – while keeping it delicious and dairy-free. Let’s explore these delightful breakfast options and kickstart your day the healthy way!

Power-Packed Berry Smoothie

Kick off your day with a refreshing and protein-rich blast! This smoothie is a wonderful alternative to Carnation Instant Breakfast’s Fruits & Berries mix. It is bursting with antioxidants from frozen berries and provides a protein boost by adding a scoop of protein powder (optional).

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy)
• 1 scoop protein powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• Optional: honey or maple syrup to taste

Instructions

1. Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until smooth and creamy.
2. Enjoy immediately for a delicious and energising breakfast.

Tropical Island Oats

Craving a taste of paradise? Carnation Instant Breakfast’s Tropical (with a Nutty twist) is a wonderful mix, and we have a perfect dupe for it! This tropical island oats recipe combines the heartiness of rolled oats with the sweetness of chopped nuts and coconut, transporting you to a beachy haven with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans)
• 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup plant-based milk (coconut milk for extratropical vibes)
• Toppings (optional): fresh fruit (mango, pineapple), yoghurt alternative

Instructions

1. Combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract in a jar or container.
2. In the morning, add plant-based milk and stir well.
3. Top with fresh fruit and yoghurt alternatives for an extra flavour and creaminess.

Cinnamon Crunch Crunch

Missing the familiar taste of your favourite cereal? Carnation Instant Breakfast’s Cinnamon (with added Nut Cluster) is great, but we have something better and homemade! This recipe offers a healthier and customisable alternative, packed with the satisfying crunch and warm cinnamon flavour you crave.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1/2 cup plant-based milk
• Toppings (optional): yoghurt alternative, fresh berries

Instructions

1. Combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup in a container.
2. In the morning, add plant-based milk and stir well.
3. Top with yoghurt alternatives and fresh berries for a delightful breakfast that’s both crunchy and creamy.

Green Glow Smoothie

Looking for a way to incorporate more greens into your diet? This green glow smoothie is packed with vitamins and minerals from spinach or kale, balanced with the sweetness of banana and the added protein of a scoop of protein powder (optional).

Ingredients

• 1 handful of fresh spinach or kale
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond milk recommended)
• 1 scoop protein powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until smooth and creamy.
2. Enjoy immediately for a refreshing and nutrient-rich breakfast that will leave you feeling energised.

Nutty Overnight Oats

Meal prep like a pro with these nutty overnight oats that are a wonderful dupe for Carnation Instant Breakfast’s Vanilla Almond (with Nut Butter). This recipe combines the creaminess of chia seeds and nut butter with the heartiness of rolled oats, creating a grab-and-go breakfast packed with protein and healthy fats.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter)
• 3/4 cup plant-based milk
• Optional: a touch of honey or maple syrup, chopped nuts or seeds for extra texture

Instructions

1. Combine rolled oats, chia seeds, nut butter, and plant-based milk in a jar. Stir well to ensure everything is incorporated.
2. Add a touch of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness (optional).
3. Refrigerate overnight for at least 8 hours, allowing the oats to soften and the chia seeds to thicken the mixture.
4. In the morning, top with chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and enjoy a delicious and convenient breakfast.

Spicy Pumpkin Spice Mix

Carnation Instant Breakfast’s Harvest Spice instantly transforms you into autumn mode! You can also have the same vibe by mixing your spicy pumpkin spice. Perfect for chilly mornings, this recipe combines the heartiness of rolled oats with the comforting flavours of pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a delightful breakfast with a kick.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 3/4 cup plant-based milk
• Optional: a touch of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness

Instructions

1. Combine all dry mix ingredients (rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, spices) in a container.
2. Add 3/4 cup of plant-based milk to the dry mix in the morning and stir well.
3. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 1-2 minutes for a warm breakfast (optional).
4. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness (optional).

Chocolatey Flaxseed Delight

Indulge your sweet tooth with this guilt-free Carnation Instant Breakfast Chocolate dupe! This recipe incorporates the heartiness of rolled oats with the rich flavour of cocoa powder and the health benefits of ground flaxseed. A touch of stevia provides natural sweetness without the sugar spike.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
• 1/4 teaspoon stevia powder (adjust to taste)
• 3/4 cup plant-based milk
• Toppings (optional): sliced banana, chopped nuts

Instructions

1. Combine rolled oats, cocoa powder, ground flaxseed, and stevia powder in a container.
2. Add 3/4 cup of plant-based milk to the dry mix in the morning and stir well.
3. Top with sliced banana and chopped nuts for added flavour and texture.

Tropical Chia Pudding

Turn your taste buds into vacation mode with this tropical chia pudding that is not even available as a Carnation Instant Breakfast flavour! This recipe utilises the thickening power of chia seeds. It combines them with plant-based milk, vanilla extract, and chopped mango or pineapple for a pudding-like breakfast bursting with tropical flavour.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (coconut milk recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped mango or pineapple
• Optional toppings: fresh fruit (berries, granola)

Instructions

1. Combine chia seeds, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract in a jar or container. Stir well.
2. Fold in chopped mango or pineapple.
3. Refrigerate overnight for at least 8 hours, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the mixture.
4. Enjoy the pudding-like consistency in the morning with fresh fruit or granola for added texture.

Mocha Madness Mix

Missing the wonderful taste of Carnation Instant Breakfast Mocha? We’ve got you! This homemade mocha madness mix offers a convenient and delicious way to jumpstart your day with the taste of coffee and the benefits of a healthy breakfast.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
• 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup plant-based milk
• Optional: a touch of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness

Instructions

1. In a container, combine all dry mix ingredients (rolled oats, instant coffee powder, chopped almonds, cocoa powder).
2. Add 3/4 cup of plant-based milk to the dry mix in the morning and stir well.
3. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 1-2 minutes for a warm breakfast (optional).
4. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness (optional).

Berry and Nut Power Bowl

or our last recipe, we have a new flavour that you won’t even find with Carnation Instant Breakfast! A customisable berry and nut power bowl! Layering yoghurt alternatives, granola, and your favourite mixed berries creates a visually appealing and delicious breakfast packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup yoghurt alternative (plain or flavoured)
• 1/4 cup granola
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• Optional toppings: chia seeds, hemp seeds, drizzle of honey or maple syrup

Instructions

1. In a bowl, layer yoghurt alternative, granola, mixed berries, and chopped nuts.
2. Top with chia seeds, hemp seeds, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra texture and sweetness (optional).
3. Enjoy a satisfying and customisable breakfast that fuels your body and delights your taste buds.

These ten recipes offer just a starting point for your dairy-free breakfast adventures. With some creativity and these tips, you can create countless healthy and delicious breakfast options that rival Carnation Instant Breakfast in convenience but are packed with more natural goodness.

Storing Your Pre-Made Breakfast Mixes for Maximum Freshness

Creating instant breakfast mixes allows ultimate control over ingredients and portion sizes. You no longer need to feel like missing out on Carnation Instant Breakfast because you can make even better mixes at home. To make sure your mixes last as long as possible without preservatives, here are some key storage tips to ensure your homemade mixes stay fresh and delicious:

Containers

• Airtight is Key: Choose airtight containers made from glass, BPA-free plastic, or stainless steel. These prevent moisture from entering the mix, leading to clumping and loss of flavour.
• Size Matters: Depending on your needs, select containers that hold a single serving or a few servings. This minimises air exposure when you scoop out a portion.

Location

• Cool and Dry: Store your mixes in a cool, dry pantry away from direct sunlight or heat sources like the stove or oven. Heat can accelerate spoilage and degrade the quality of some ingredients.
• Darkness is Best: While not essential, keeping your mixes in a dark location can help preserve the colour and potency of certain ingredients like dried fruits and spices.

Additional Tips

• Labelling: Label your containers with the mix name and the date it was prepared. This helps you track freshness and ensures you use the older mixes first.
• Oxygen Absorbers (Optional): For long-term storage (beyond a month), consider adding oxygen absorber packets to your containers. These help remove oxygen from the container, further slowing down spoilage.
• Moisture-Sensitive Ingredients: If your mix includes ingredients prone to absorbing moisture, like rolled oats or nut butter, consider storing them in a separate container within the main container. This helps prevent them from becoming clumped or soggy.

Shelf Life

• Base Ingredients: Dry ingredients like rolled oats, nuts, and seeds have a relatively long shelf life (around 3 months) when stored properly.
• Dried Fruits: Dried fruits can last 2-3 months, but their texture might deteriorate.
• Spices: While spices generally have a long shelf life, their potency can weaken over time. Consider storing them in a smaller container and refilling them more frequently.
• Overall Mix: A well-stored pre-made breakfast mix should remain fresh and delicious for 2-3 months. However, before consuming, it’s always best to check for any signs of spoilage, like mould or rancidity.

By following these storage tips, you can ensure your homemade breakfast mixes stay fresh and flavorful for weeks, allowing you to enjoy convenient and healthy breakfasts throughout the month.

And with that, we conclude our piece on creating delicious, healthy and easy-to-prepare Carnation Instant Breakfast dupes. No more feeling like you’re missing out with those easy recipes! The best thing about them is that they are highly customisable. Feel free to add, remove or alternate ingredients in whatever way you like. Maintaining a dairy-free diet is never hard if you know what you’re doing! Bon Appetite!

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