How To Make Oatmeal With Fruit Fresh Frozen Dried Or Canned

Oatmeal with Fruit

We have a regular breakfast rotation in our house to simplify morning meals and Tuesdays and Thursdays are oatmeal days. We often have raisin oatmeal, but sometimes we go for strawberry, blueberry or banana—and since the method is so simple and versatile with all kinds of fruit, I wanted to share it. Oatmeal is an incredibly affordable breakfast option, it’s easy to keep on hand in the pantry, and it’s simple to customize it for everyone in your family. There are a lot of options for flavors and fruits in this recipe, so it can be fun to experiment and try a few out to see which your kids (and you!) love best. I love that I can make this even when I may be low on fresh fruit. Swapping in dried fruit, canned fruit, frozen fruit, and fresh fruit really helps make this one of our favorite breakfast recipes.

Ingredients You Need

All you need to make this simple toddler breakfast idea is rolled oats and cinnamon. From there, you have options as to which type of fruit you use, additional add-ins and flavorings, and milk. I have options for using fresh fruit, frozen fruit, canned fruit, and dried fruit so you can vary this idea according to what you have on hand—and to suit the seasons and cravings. TIP: Oatmeal is a great finger food. Simply let cool and serve a small amount at a time directly on a highchair tray and let the baby or toddler feed themselves with their hands.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a look at the super simple process involved in making this easy oatmeal recipe using the example of bananas.. Scroll down to the bottom of this post for all of the info. TIP: We prefer our oatmeal less mushy, but still soft. If you like your oats more cooked than what you see here, simply add 1/2-1 cup additional water and cook a little longer.

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat to serve, adding milk as desired. You can also freeze leftover oatmeal in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or in short increments on the defrost setting in the microwave.

Best Tips for Success

Divide the recipe in half to make a smaller amount.Make the base recipe, then stir in your desired fruit of choice when you reheat the portions to change things up throughout the week.To Make One Serving in the Microwave: Add ½ cup rolled oats, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 cup water to heat-safe bowl. Cook for 1 minute. Stir in 2 tablespoons dried fruit or ½ cup fresh fruit and cook for an additional minute. Serve with milk.To make with Steel Cut Oats: Use 1 cup steel cut oats and 4 cups water. Simmer on medium-low heat until the oats are soft, about 20 minutes.To Make with Instant Oats: Use 3 cups quick or instant oats and 5 cups water. Simmer on medium-low heat until the oats are soft and the water is absorbed, about 5-8 minutes.Flavor Tips: Mango is particularly good with coconut milk. Shredded apple, applesauce, and banana works well with a dollop of peanut butter. Almond butter is delicious with blueberries and raspberries.Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats.Dairy-free: Use your favorite nondairy milk.You can try Baby Oatmeal for your little one, too.

I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe. Please leave a comment below to share what your family thought!