Ingredients
Liquid Base
- 1 and 1/4 cup water (or 1/2 cup milk + 3/4 cup water)
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup large flake rolled oats
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
Sweetener and Flavorings
- 1 and 1/2 tsp maple syrup (plus additional to taste)
- 1 tbsp nut butter (of choice)
Instructions
- Prepare Liquid: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add the water or water combined with milk and bring it to a boil. This forms the base for cooking the oats.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Once boiling, stir in the rolled oats, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and salt. Reduce the heat to medium-low to allow the mixture to simmer gently.
- Simmer Oatmeal: Let the oatmeal cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Incorporate Nut Butter: Stir in the nut butter and continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes or until the oatmeal reaches your desired consistency, maintaining occasional stirring for smooth blending.
- Rest the Oatmeal: Remove the saucepan from heat, cover it with a lid, and let it stand for 2 minutes. This resting period helps absorb the remaining liquid and enhance creaminess.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the oatmeal into a bowl. You may add extra toppings like fresh fruits or nuts if desired before serving.
- Microwave Option – Combine Ingredients: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, mix all the ingredients except the nut butter thoroughly. Ensure the bowl is large enough to prevent overflow as oats expand while cooking.
- Microwave Cooking: Heat on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds. Remove and stir the oatmeal, then microwave for an additional 45 seconds to complete cooking.
- Add Nut Butter and Rest: Stir in the nut butter, let the mixture stand for 1 minute to blend flavors and thicken, stir again, and enjoy hot.
Notes
- You can substitute water with milk or a milk alternative to create a creamier texture.
- Adjust maple syrup quantity to suit your preferred sweetness level.
- For added nutrition, top the oatmeal with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts.
- If using the microwave method, use a large bowl to avoid spills as oats expand during cooking.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for multiple servings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian