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This creamy custard oatmeal is a comforting way to start your day when you want something warm and satisfying but not too heavy. It brings that smooth texture you get from custard into a breakfast favorite using simple pantry ingredients.
I first made this after a morning craving for something richer than plain oatmeal and it quickly became my go-to comfort breakfast for chilly weekends.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: provide a hearty but tender base that soaks up the custard flavor nicely — choose good quality old-fashioned oats for best texture
- Milk: brings creaminess, and you can use dairy or plant-based versions depending on your preference — whole milk will give a richer result
- Sugar: sweetens gently — you can swap for honey, maple syrup, or your favorite sweetener but adjust for taste
- Vanilla extract: adds warmth and enhances sweetness — try to find pure vanilla extract for the best aroma
- Egg: is the secret to that custard-like texture — fresh eggs are important to get a smooth blend and avoid any off flavors
- Ground cinnamon: adds subtle spice and depth — optional but recommended for a comforting note
- Salt: a pinch balances flavors and prevents the oatmeal from tasting flat
- Fresh fruit or nuts: are great for topping to add texture and freshness at the end
Instructions
- Build the Milk Base:
- In a medium saucepan, gently heat the milk and sugar over medium heat until you see small bubbles just starting to form around the edges. This slow warming helps dissolve the sugar and prepares for the oats.
- Add Oats and Cook:
- Stir in your rolled oats and keep cooking over medium heat. Stir occasionally so they cook evenly and don’t stick to the bottom. Cook until the oats are tender and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. This usually takes five to seven minutes.
- Whisk Egg Mixture:
- While the oats cook, whisk together the egg with vanilla extract and cinnamon if you are using it. This step is important to infuse flavor and get the smooth custard texture.
- Temper the Egg:
- To avoid scrambling, slowly drizzle a small amount of the hot oatmeal into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This heats the egg gently so it blends in without cooking too quickly.
- Combine and Finish Cooking:
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the oats. Return the pan to low heat and stir constantly for one to two minutes until the oatmeal thickens further and takes on that custard-like creaminess.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in a pinch of salt for flavor balance. Portion into bowls and top with fresh fruit, nuts, or any preferred toppings to add extra texture and flavor.
I love the way the egg adds richness without heaviness. One chilly morning, serving this with cinnamon apples made it feel like a special weekend treat even on a busy weekday.
Storage tips
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid cooking too long on reheating to keep the custard texture intact.
Ingredient swaps
For a vegan version, try silken tofu blended in place of the egg or a commercial egg replacer though texture will differ slightly. You can swap rolled oats for steel-cut oats but increase cooking time as they take longer to become tender.
Serving ideas
Top with toasted nuts for crunch or fresh berries and a drizzle of honey for bright contrast. A spoonful of nut butter makes it even more satisfying. Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy start.
This recipe is perfect for tweaking so have fun with your favorite mix-ins and toppings.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve the custard-like texture in this oatmeal?
Tempering the egg by slowly mixing hot oats into it before blending back into the pot thickens the mixture gently, creating a smooth, custard-like consistency.
- → Can I use plant-based milk in the oatmeal?
Yes, plant-based milk works well and will maintain the creamy texture while catering to dietary preferences.
- → What toppings complement this oatmeal best?
Fresh fruits like berries or banana slices, and crunchy nuts add texture and freshness that balance the creamy oats.
- → How can I adjust sweetness to my liking?
You can vary the sugar or sweetener amount or drizzle honey on top after cooking for customizable sweetness.
- → Why is tempering the egg important?
Tempering prevents the egg from scrambling by gently raising its temperature before cooking with the hot oatmeal mixture.