What is a better way to start your day than a comforting bowl of oatmeal that warms your soul and nourishes your body? If you’re skipping dairy but still want a hearty and tasty breakfast, you might be on a mission. Well, we’ve got your back.
This guide is all about simple and practical dairy-free oatmeal recipes—no fancy ingredients, just everyday stuff you might already have in your kitchen. These oatmeal recipes are here to make your mornings easy and tasty.
So, let’s swap the milk for something equally creamy, add a dash of flavour, and make breakfast a breeze.
What is Oatmeal?
Oatmeal bowl
Oatmeal is a warm and comforting dish made from oats, typically eaten for breakfast. It comes in various forms, each with its own texture and cooking time.
What are Oats?
Oats are whole-grain cereals packed with nutrients like fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Types of Oatmeal
Steel-cut oats: These are coarsely chopped oat groats known for their chewy texture and long cooking time (about 20-30 minutes).
Rolled oats: These are flattened oat groats that provide a softer texture and quicker cooking time (usually 5-10 minutes). They come in various thicknesses, including old-fashioned (thick) and quick oats (thin).
Instant oats: These are pre-cooked and rolled oats, requiring only a minute or two of simmering with hot liquid. They offer the fastest cooking time but have a softer, mushy texture.
How is Oatmeal Made?
Oatmeal is simply prepared by simmering oats in a liquid, most commonly water or milk (including dairy-free alternatives). You can customise it with various toppings and ingredients for added flavour and nutrition.
Oatmeal Health Benefits
Oatmeal is a healthy and filling food that provides sustained energy due to its high fibre content.
It helps lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, and promote gut health.
It’s naturally gluten-free (except for oats contaminated with wheat) and can be easily adapted to various dietary restrictions.
Why Choose Oatmeal?
Here are some of the reasons oatmeal is a popular choice:
Healthy and nutritious: Rich in fibre, protein, and essential nutrients, oatmeal provides a healthy and filling breakfast option.
Versatile and customisable: You can add endless toppings and mix-ins, like fruits, nuts, seeds, spices, and even vegetables, to create unique and flavourful combinations.
Warm and comforting: The warm, creamy texture of oatmeal is perfect for a cosy morning meal.
Quick and easy to prepare: Most oatmeal recipes require minimal ingredients and cooking time, making them a convenient breakfast option.
This chocolate peanut butter dairy-free oatmeal is a delightful way to start your day. Feel free to customise it with your favourite toppings and experiment with the sweetness level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal:
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any dairy-free milk)
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For the Toppings:
2 tablespoons vegan peanut butter
1 tablespoon chopped peanuts
1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips (optional)
1/4 cup sliced banana (optional)
Instructions
Whisk together oats, almond milk, water, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a saucepan.
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Allow the oatmeal to simmer and thicken. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
Check the consistency of the oatmeal. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add more almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Once the oatmeal reaches your preferred thickness, remove it from the heat.
Spoon the dairy-free chocolate peanut butter oatmeal into bowls.
Top with sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or dairy-free chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
2. Blueberry Overnight Dairy-Free Oatmeal Recipe
Blueberry Overnight Dairy-Free Oatmeal
Blueberry overnight oatmeal is an easy breakfast option that can be prepared ahead of time. It’s delicious, healthy, and requires minimal prep, making it the perfect grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
Ingredients
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any other dairy-free milk)
1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Combine the oats, almond milk, blueberries, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a small bowl.
Stir well to combine, making sure the oats are evenly coated.
Cover the jar or bowl tightly and refrigerate overnight.
In the morning, give the oats a good stir and enjoy cold or warm them up slightly in the microwave if desired.
Top with your desired toppings and enjoy.
3. Apple Cinnamon Baked Dairy-Free Oatmeal Recipe
Apple Cinnamon Baked Dairy-Free Oatmeal
With its warm and comforting flavours, satisfying texture, and ease of preparation, this apple cinnamon-baked dairy-free oatmeal is perfect for a cosy and satisfying breakfast or snack. It combines the creamy goodness of baked oatmeal with the sweet and tangy flavours of apples and cinnamon, all without a drop of dairy.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped apples
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any dairy-free milk)
1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings like chopped walnuts or pecans, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat oven to 190°C and grease a baking dish or individual ramekins.
Combine oats, chopped apples, walnuts (if using), and flax egg in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Transfer the oatmeal mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon (optional) for a crunchy topping.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and bubbly.
Let the oatmeal cool slightly before serving.
4. Pumpkin Spice Dairy-Free Oatmeal with Sautéed Apples Recipe
Pumpkin spice dairy-free oatmeal with sauteed apples is a delicious, healthy, and convenient breakfast option that offers a delightful burst of fall flavours in every bite. The creamy oatmeal base contrasts with the slightly crisp apples, creating a delightful texture.
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal:
1/2 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any dairy-free milk)
1/4 cup pumpkin puree
1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
1/2 teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
Pinch of salt
For the Sauteed Apples:
1 apple, sliced
1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegan butter
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
For the Topping (optional):
Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dairy-free granola
Drizzle of maple syrup or agave nectar
Instructions
Combine oats, almond milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, spices, and salt in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until oats are cooked through and creamy.
While the oatmeal simmers, heat coconut oil or vegan butter in a separate pan.
Add sliced apples, cinnamon, and salt. Saute over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until apples are softened and lightly caramelised.
Spoon the cooked oatmeal into a bowl. Top with sauteed apples, chopped nuts (if using), and a drizzle of maple syrup (optional).
Serve warm and enjoy.
5. Dairy-Free Blueberry Muffin Oatmeal Recipe
Dairy-Free Blueberry Muffin Oatmeal
This dairy-free blueberry muffin oatmeal combines the comforting warmth of oatmeal with the sweet, juicy goodness of blueberries and the irresistible muffin flavours, all without using any dairy products. It’s a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients
For the oatmeal:
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
For the blueberry filling:
1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
For the muffin crumble topping:
1/4 cup gluten-free oat flour
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Combine rolled oats, almond milk, water, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until oats are cooked through and creamy.
While the oatmeal is simmering, combine blueberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Let sit for a few minutes to allow the blueberries to release their juices.
Preheat oven to 190°C.
Spoon the cooked oatmeal into individual oven-safe ramekins or bowls. Top with the blueberry filling, then sprinkle with the muffin crumble topping.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crumble is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Serve your dairy-free blueberry muffin oatmeal warm, topped with additional fresh berries or a drizzle of nut butter, if desired.
How to Achieve Creamy Dairy-Free Oatmeal
Achieving creamy, dairy-free oatmeal is all about utilising clever substitutes and techniques. Here are some tips to help you whip up a delicious and satisfying bowl.
Choose the right milk: Opt for plant-based milk naturally high in fat, like full-fat coconut milk, cashew milk, or oat milk. Almond milk and soy milk can also work but might be slightly thinner.
Add a natural thickener: Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or mashed banana can add thickness and creaminess to your oatmeal. Chia seeds and flaxseeds will absorb liquid and thicken as they sit, while mashed banana adds a natural sweetness and creaminess.
Pre-grind your chia seeds or flaxseeds: This helps them absorb liquid faster and thicken the oatmeal more effectively.
Add water: Adding a small amount of water to the milk ratio helps achieve the desired consistency without diluting the flavour.
Cook it right: Simmering your oatmeal over low heat, stirring occasionally, helps it thicken and become creamier.
Stir wisely: Don’t over-stir your oatmeal! Gentle stirring helps prevent the oats from becoming mushy and ensures a smoother consistency.
Cover up: Keep your pot or bowl covered while cooking to trap steam and prevent the oatmeal from drying out.
Use a slow cooker: Setting your oatmeal to cook overnight in a slow cooker gives it ample time to thicken and develop flavour.
Blend it up: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend your cooked oatmeal with a bit of plant-based milk or your favourite nut butter.
Get creative: Experiment with different ingredients and toppings to find your perfect dairy-free oatmeal.
Conclusion
We hope these dairy-free oatmeal recipes make your breakfast routine a breeze without compromising on taste. Now, go forth and conquer your mornings with a steaming bowl of creamy delight. Experiment with flavours, textures, and toppings to create a masterpiece of your own.
If you’re craving more dairy-free goodness, check our website for various recipes extending beyond the oatmeal bowl. From irresistible dairy-free cookie recipes to convenient and tasty dairy-free snacks, we have a collection that ditches the dairy but keeps the flavour.
