Tasty Coconut Cream Oats

My roommate walked into our tiny apartment kitchen one winter morning and said I had to try this coconut oat experiment shed been perfecting. The smell alone stopped me in my tracks creamy coconut milk simmering with vanilla and just enough sweetness to make Tuesday feel special. Now its the breakfast I make when I need something comforting but still wholesome enough to start the day right.

I made a huge batch for my cousins birthday brunch last spring and watched skeptical faces turn delighted after the first spoonful. Something about coconut and berries just feels like a celebration even when youre eating it alone on your couch before work.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats: Certified glutenfree if needed steel cut will change the cook time significantly
• 1 cup coconut milk: Fullfat canned version creates that restaurant style creaminess light coconut milk works but the texture changes
• 1 cup water or unsweetened plantbased milk: Adjusts consistency without overpowering the coconut flavor
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey: Start here and add more at the end if you like things sweeter
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Crucial for balancing sweetness and bringing out coconut notes
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla makes a noticeable difference here
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds texture and intensifies coconut flavor
• 1/2 cup fresh berries: Blueberries raspberries or strawberries all work beautifully
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds: Optional but adds extra protein and a nice little crunch

Instructions

Combine the base ingredients:

Dump oats coconut milk water or plant milk maple syrup salt and vanilla into your saucepan and give everything a quick stir

Bring to a gentle simmer:

Set heat to medium and stir occasionally until you see tiny bubbles forming around the edges this prevents sticking and catches the oatmeal before it scorches

Cook until creamy:

Let it bubble gently for 7 to 10 minutes stirring every minute or so until most liquid has absorbed and the oats are tender but still have some bite

Let it rest:

Remove from heat and walk away for 1 to 2 minutes letting the oats finish absorbing liquid and thicken up naturally

Build your bowls:

Split between two bowls then shower with shredded coconut fresh berries chia seeds and those toasted coconut flakes if you went the extra mile

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This recipe became my go-to when I started working from home and realized breakfast could actually be something I looked forward to instead of just fuel. Theres something meditative about stirring oats and watching them transform into something that feels like a treat.

Make It Your Own

Swap out berries for sliced banana diced mango or whatever fruit looks best at the market. A spoonful of almond butter or a sprinkle of chopped macadamia nuts takes this in a completely different but equally delicious direction.

Meal Prep Magic

Double the batch and store individual portions in the fridge for up to four days. Add a splash of coconut milk or water when reheating and youll barely notice the difference from freshly made.

Serving Suggestions

These oats shine alongside a cup of strong coffee or a matcha latte for a breakfast that feels balanced and energizing. The richness from the coconut means you stay satisfied straight through to lunch without needing a snack.

• Toast extra coconut flakes in a dry pan until golden for the best crunch
• Warm your berries slightly in the microwave before adding if its a cold morning
• A pinch of cinnamon mixed into the oats while cooking adds cozy depth

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Hope this brings a little extra warmth to your morning routine.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this oats vegan?

Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey to make this recipe fully vegan. The coconut milk and oats are naturally plant-based, making this a great vegan breakfast option.

→ What's the best way to achieve maximum creaminess?

For the creamiest texture, use full-fat canned coconut milk and let the oats sit for 1-2 minutes after cooking to allow them to thicken. You can also use all coconut milk instead of mixing with water or plant milk.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

These oats reheat well, but for best texture, prepare fresh. If making ahead, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of coconut milk or water.

→ What toppings work best with coconut cream oats?

Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries pair beautifully. Chia seeds add crunch and nutrition, while toasted coconut flakes provide extra texture. A drizzle of maple syrup or honey adds sweetness if needed.

→ Is this gluten-free?

This can be gluten-free by using certified gluten-free rolled oats. Regular oats may contain traces of gluten, so choose certified gluten-free varieties if you have sensitivities or celiac disease.