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Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bowl


  • Author: Sarah

Ingredients

This Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bowl is incredibly versatile, and you can easily adapt the ingredients to your liking and what you have on hand. Here’s a breakdown of the core components and some suggestions:

  • Rolled Oats (1/2 cup): The heart of our bowl! Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, provide a wonderful chewy texture and are packed with fiber, which is crucial for digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. They are also a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy release throughout the morning. Look for whole grain rolled oats for the best nutritional benefits.
  • Milk (1 cup): Liquid gold that cooks the oats to creamy perfection! You can use any milk you prefer. Dairy milk, like whole milk or 2%, will add richness and calcium. For plant-based options, almond milk offers a light and slightly nutty flavor, soy milk provides a creamy texture and protein boost, oat milk enhances the oat-y flavor and creaminess, and coconut milk (from a carton, not canned) adds a subtle sweetness and tropical hint. Choose unsweetened varieties to control the overall sugar content.
  • Water (1/2 cup): Water is often used in combination with milk to control the richness and creaminess of the oatmeal. It also helps to prevent the oatmeal from becoming too thick. Using a combination of milk and water balances flavor and texture perfectly.
  • Peanut Butter (2 tablespoons): The star of the show! Peanut butter brings that irresistible nutty flavor and creamy texture that makes this bowl so satisfying. Opt for natural peanut butter, which is typically made with just peanuts and salt, avoiding added sugars and oils. Smooth or crunchy – the choice is yours! Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful textural contrast. Peanut butter is also a great source of healthy fats and protein, contributing to satiety and muscle building.
  • Sweetener (1-2 teaspoons, optional): A touch of sweetness can enhance the flavors of the oatmeal and peanut butter. You can use various sweeteners depending on your preference. Maple syrup offers a natural sweetness and warm flavor. Honey is another natural option with a distinct floral note. Brown sugar adds a molasses-like richness. For lower-calorie options, consider stevia or erythritol. You can also skip the sweetener entirely if you prefer a less sweet breakfast, especially if you’re adding sweet toppings.
  • Pinch of Salt: Salt is a flavor enhancer that may seem counterintuitive in a sweet breakfast, but a tiny pinch of salt actually balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the oats and peanut butter. It really makes a difference in the overall taste!
  • Toppings (Optional, but Highly Recommended!): This is where you can get creative and customize your bowl to your heart’s content! Toppings add texture, flavor, and extra nutrients. Some fantastic options include:
    • Sliced Banana: Adds natural sweetness, potassium, and a creamy texture.
    • Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): Bursting with antioxidants, vitamins, and a refreshing tartness.
    • Chopped Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans): Provide healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch.
    • Seeds (chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds): Boost fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein.
    • Chocolate Chips (dark chocolate preferred): A touch of indulgence and antioxidants (especially dark chocolate).
    • Coconut Flakes (unsweetened): Adds a tropical flavor and chewy texture.
    • Granola: Provides extra crunch and sweetness (choose a low-sugar option).
    • Cinnamon: Warms up the flavor profile and adds antioxidants.
    • A Drizzle of Extra Peanut Butter: For extra peanut butter lovers!
    • A Sprinkle of Cocoa Powder: For a chocolatey peanut butter twist.

Instructions

Making this Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bowl is incredibly simple and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure oatmeal perfection:

  1. Combine Oats, Liquid, and Salt in a Pot: In a small saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk (and water, if using), and a pinch of salt. Using the right pot size is important – too small and it might boil over, too large and the liquid might evaporate too quickly. A 1-2 quart saucepan is usually ideal for a single serving.
  2. Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat on your stovetop. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Stirring also helps to release the starch from the oats, contributing to a creamier texture.
  3. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once the oatmeal starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oats are cooked through and have absorbed most of the liquid. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of oats you use and your desired consistency. For creamier oatmeal, simmer for a bit longer. For a chewier texture, cook for a shorter time. Continue to stir occasionally during simmering.
  4. Remove from Heat and Stir in Peanut Butter and Sweetener: Once the oatmeal is cooked to your liking, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the peanut butter and sweetener (if using). Stir until the peanut butter is fully melted and incorporated into the oatmeal, creating a smooth and creamy texture. The heat from the oatmeal will melt the peanut butter beautifully.
  5. Transfer to a Bowl and Add Toppings: Pour the peanut butter oatmeal into a serving bowl. Now comes the fun part – adding your favorite toppings! Arrange your chosen toppings artfully on top of the oatmeal. This is your chance to get creative and customize your bowl to your taste and nutritional needs.
  6. Serve Immediately and Enjoy!: Serve your Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bowl immediately while it’s warm and delicious. The warmth of the oatmeal will enhance the flavors and create a truly comforting breakfast experience. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma and the beautiful presentation before diving in and savoring every bite!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 25
  • Carbohydrates: 50
  • Fiber: 10
  • Protein: 20