Ingredients
Oatmeal Base
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk or plant-based milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Flavorings and Mix-ins
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- ¼ cup cherries, chopped (fresh, frozen, or dried)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine oats, milk, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Simmer Mixture: Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Oatmeal: Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the oats are thick and creamy.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in cherries, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Heat Through: Cook an additional 1–2 minutes until heated through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and top with chocolate chips if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Frozen cherries work perfectly—no need to thaw.
- Add protein powder or nut butter for extra staying power.
- For overnight oats, refrigerate mixture overnight instead of cooking.
- Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
