Coconut Vanilla Breakfast Oats

Name: Coconut Vanilla Breakfast Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 2 cups coconut milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); Pinch of salt; Toppings: fresh fruit, nuts, shredded coconut, or seeds

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Favorites

When it comes to breakfast, I often crave a delicious and energizing start to my day, which is why I adore these Coconut Vanilla Breakfast Oats. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy oatmeal and rich coconut flavor, elevated by a hint of vanilla. It doesn't take long to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings, and the best part is that it keeps me feeling satisfied for hours. I love how I can easily customize it with my favorite toppings, making it a versatile morning treat.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:59:35.784Z

Creating these Coconut Vanilla Breakfast Oats was an experiment that turned into a delightful morning tradition. I wanted something that combined the creamy richness of coconut milk with the classic comfort of rolled oats. The key is soaking the oats, which helps achieve that perfect texture and melds the flavors beautifully.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the ability to customize it. I often add fresh fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of honey, transforming each bowl into a unique creation that keeps my breakfast exciting day after day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that brightens your morning.
Satisfying texture with every spoonful.
Easily adaptable with your favorite toppings.

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The base for these Coconut Vanilla Breakfast Oats relies heavily on high-quality rolled oats and coconut milk. Rolled oats are great for this recipe because they absorb liquid efficiently, becoming creamy without losing their texture. Instant oats, on the other hand, might turn too mushy and lose that satisfying bite. Opt for unsweetened coconut milk if you prefer a less sugary profile, as it allows the rich flavors of coconut and vanilla to shine through without overpowering sweetness.

When selecting toppings, consider contrasting textures to elevate your breakfast experience. For crunch, nuts like almonds or walnuts pair perfectly with the creamy oats. Fresh fruit not only adds color but also provides a refreshing balance. I often use berries for a tangy burst or sliced bananas for natural sweetness. Don't shy away from adding some shredded coconut for an extra layer of coconut flavor; it really ties everything together.

Cooking Techniques for the Perfect Consistency

The key to achieving perfectly cooked oats is to maintain a gentle simmer. If the heat is too high, the coconut milk can rapidly boil, leading to uneven cooking and possibly resulting in a burnt bottom. Keep an eye on the oats; they should bubble softly and expand until they reach a creamy, porridge-like consistency. Stirring occasionally helps prevent sticking and allows you to monitor the thickness, ensuring you catch it just before it becomes too thick.

If you desire an ultra-creamy texture, consider adding a splash more coconut milk as the oats simmer. This technique can help achieve your desired richness and is particularly useful if you prefer a thinner consistency. Remember to taste the oats before serving; this way, you can adjust sweetness or creaminess to your preference, making them your very own customized dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to start your delicious adventure!

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups coconut milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Pinch of salt
Toppings: fresh fruit, nuts, shredded coconut, or seeds

Once you have everything ready, you can whip this up in no time!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect bowl of Coconut Vanilla Breakfast Oats.

Cook the Oats

In a saucepan, combine the rolled oats, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir while bringing the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Simmer

Let the oats simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they reach a creamy consistency.

Sweeten (Optional)

If you like your oats sweet, stir in the honey or maple syrup during the last minute of cooking.

Serve and Top

Divide the oats into bowls and top with your choice of fresh fruit, nuts, shredded coconut, or seeds.

Enjoy your delightful Coconut Vanilla Breakfast Oats!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of milk or add a scoop of protein powder for an added nutritional boost.

Meal Prep and Storage

These breakfast oats make for excellent meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and store individual portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. This way, you can simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stove in the morning. If reheating, add a splash of coconut milk to loosen the oats back to their creamy state.

For longer storage, cooked oats can be frozen. Portion them into freezer-safe containers, and they will keep well for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and heat as mentioned, or microwave straight from the freezer on a low setting until warmed through.

Endless Variations

One of the best aspects of these Coconut Vanilla Breakfast Oats is their versatility. You can easily swap out coconut milk for almond or oat milk if you're looking for different flavors or dietary accommodations. For a protein boost, consider stirring in some Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder after cooking, which can also add creaminess.

For those who enjoy spiced flavors, adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the simmering stage can transform the dish wonderfully. Seasonal fruits like peaches in the summer or apples and cinnamon in the fall can also make for exciting variations that keep breakfast fresh and fun. I love experimenting with flavors based on what’s available or what I’m in the mood for!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rolled oats instead of instant oats?

Yes, rolled oats work great and give a better texture than instant oats.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and add your toppings before serving.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure any toppings you use are vegan-friendly.

→ What are some topping suggestions?

Fresh fruits like bananas, berries, nuts, chia seeds, or even a dollop of yogurt make excellent toppings!