There’s something truly delightful about waking up to a breakfast that feels like dessert! Enter creamy custard oats—a high-protein vegetarian dish that has transformed my morning routine in just 10 minutes. With just a few pantry staples and a simple soaking trick, this comforting bowl of goodness not only satisfies your taste buds but is also perfect for those seeking a gluten-free option.
I first tried this recipe on a rushed weekday morning when I craved something heartier than my usual routine. To my surprise, the velvety texture and rich flavor reminded me of indulging in a decadent dessert, yet it offered all the nutrition I needed to fuel my day. As I stirred in the eggs and a splash of vanilla, the creamy magic unfolded right before my eyes.
Whether you’re looking to revive your breakfast game or simply tired of the same old fare, these custard oats promise a flavorful, nutritious start that will leave you energized and satisfied. So, let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that will make mornings a little brighter!
Why choose Custard Oats for breakfast?
Simplicity: Preparing custard oats is remarkably easy, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Nutritious boost: Packed with high protein from eggs, it’s a healthy choice to fuel your day.
Versatile flavors: Customizable toppings like fruits and nuts let you tailor each bowl to your taste.
Satisfying comfort: The rich, creamy texture feels indulgent, resembling a dessert without the guilt.
Quick & easy: With just 10 minutes from start to finish, enjoy an effortlessly delicious start to your day!
Custard Oats Ingredients
• For the Base
- Rolled Oats – This provides the perfect creamy base; opt for gluten-free oats if needed.
- Eggs – They add a rich protein boost and create that custard-like texture; chia seeds are a great vegan alternative.
• For the Creaminess
- Milk – Contributes a creamy mouthfeel; you can use either dairy or your favorite plant-based milk for a healthier twist.
• For Sweetening
- Honey – Adds natural sweetness; feel free to swap in maple syrup for a vegan treat.
• For Flavor
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the custard flavor; almond extract can serve as a delightful substitute if you desire.
These custard oats come together swiftly, turning simple ingredients into a satisfying breakfast that feels like a treat!
How to Make Custard Oats
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Soak the oats: Pour rolled oats into a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight, to ensure they soften and cook evenly.
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Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, mix the soaked oats with your choice of milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat while stirring gently, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
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Whisk and thicken: Once simmering, slowly whisk in the beaten eggs, honey, and vanilla extract. Keep stirring for about 3-5 minutes, as the mixture begins to thicken and turn creamy.
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Cook to perfection: Continue cooking for an additional 2-5 minutes, watching closely until the custard oats reach a velvety, custard-like consistency. If it gets too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it up.
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Serve and enjoy: Scoop the creamy custard oats into bowls and top with your favorite choices, like fresh berries or crunchy nuts, to enhance the deliciousness.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of extra honey on top for added sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Custard Oats
- Fridge: Store leftover custard oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze custard oats in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently and adding a touch of milk to achieve the desired texture. Enjoy your custard oats just as delicious as the first serving!
What to Serve with Custard Oats?
Start your morning with delightful pairings that elevate creamy custard oats to a complete breakfast experience.
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Fresh Berries: Bursting with sweetness, a handful of strawberries or blueberries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich custard oats.
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Crunchy Nuts: A sprinkle of almond or walnut pieces provides a satisfying crunch, balancing the creaminess with delightful texture.
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Sliced Bananas: Sweet and creamy banana slices create a luxurious, indulgent twist that perfectly complements the velvety oats.
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Cinnamon Dusting: A pinch of cinnamon introduces warmth and spice, enhancing the comforting flavors while offering a health boost.
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Greek Yogurt: Add a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt for a protein-packed treat, bringing tanginess that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness.
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Honey Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, a gentle drizzle of honey elevates your dish, making each bite even more luscious.
These pairing ideas not only enhance the flavor of custard oats but also create a breakfast spread that’s both satisfying and delicious!
Custard Oats Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your custard oats to elevate your breakfast experience with delightful twists!
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Vegan Swap: Replace eggs with chia seeds soaked in water for a plant-based custard option. This swap ensures that you still enjoy a creamy texture while keeping it vegan-friendly.
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Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger powder for a warm, aromatic touch that brings an exotic flair to your custard oats.
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Nutty Add-In: Stir in almond or peanut butter for added creaminess and a dose of healthy fats, creating a deliciously indulgent breakfast.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate mashed bananas into the mix for natural sweetness and a touch of creamy richness. Top with fresh sliced fruit for extra flavor!
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate version of custard oats. Just adjust the sweetener slightly to balance the rich chocolate flavor.
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Savory Style: Instead of sweet toppings, consider garnishing with sautéed spinach, chopped tomatoes, and feta cheese for a savory twist that surprises the palate.
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Coconut Creaminess: Swap out regular milk for coconut milk to infuse your custard oats with a tropical flavor that’s both creamy and delicious.
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Hearty Texture: Mix in cooked quinoa or chia seeds to add extra protein and a satisfying crunch, making your custard oats even more filling.
Each variation offers a fun way to personalize your custard oats and discover new favorite flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These custard oats are ideal for busy home cooks who want to simplify their mornings! You can prepare the soaked oats up to 24 hours in advance by covering them in water and storing them in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can whisk together the eggs, honey, and vanilla extract ahead of time and keep this mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the soaked oats with milk over medium heat, stir in the pre-mixed ingredients, and follow the same cooking steps to achieve that creamy custard-like texture. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful and nutritious breakfast with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Custard Oats
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Soaking Matters: Soak oats in water for at least 30 minutes or overnight for optimal softness and quicker cooking.
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Egg Alternatives: If you’re looking for a vegan option, substitute eggs with chia seeds mixed with water to maintain that creamy custard texture.
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Avoid Instant Oats: Stick to rolled oats for best results; instant or steel-cut varieties can lead to incorrect cooking times and texture.
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Topping Timing: Add toppings after cooking to prevent them from becoming soggy and ensure they maintain their delightful texture.
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Keep It Smooth: If your custard oats thicken too much while cooking, a splash of milk can easily bring them back to a perfect creamy consistency.
These tips will ensure your custard oats come out delicious every time!
Custard Oats Recipe FAQs
What type of oats should I use for custard oats?
I recommend using rolled oats for the best texture and cooking results. Always check for gluten-free labeling if you need that option. Steel-cut or instant oats may not yield the creamy custard-like finish you desire!
How can I store leftover custard oats?
Store any leftover custard oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep them fresh and convenient for quick breakfasts. Just be sure to reheat with a splash of milk to restore their creamy goodness!
Can I freeze custard oats?
Absolutely! You can freeze custard oats in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen on the stove, adding a bit of milk to help regain that lovely creamy texture.
What if my custard oats are too thick after cooking?
Not to worry! If your custard oats become too thick while cooking, simply add a splash of milk and stir gently until they’ve loosened to your desired consistency. This should help achieve that velvety texture you’re looking for!
Are custard oats suitable for vegan diets?
Yes! You can easily make custard oats vegan by substituting the eggs with chia seeds. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes gel-like before adding it to the mixture. Enjoy your delicious vegan custard oats!
How long do custard oats take to prepare?
This delightful dish takes only about 10 minutes to prepare—just remember to soak your oats for at least 30 minutes or overnight to ensure they cook smoothly! Enjoy the quick and easy breakfast that feels like a treat!
Creamy Custard Oats: Your Quick High-Protein Breakfast Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the oats in water for at least 30 minutes or overnight to soften them.
- Combine the soaked oats with your choice of milk in a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Whisk in the beaten eggs, honey, and vanilla extract, stirring until thickened and creamy for 3-5 minutes.
- Cook for an additional 2-5 minutes until reaching a custard-like consistency, adding more milk if necessary.
- Serve the custard oats in bowls and add toppings like fresh berries or nuts as desired.