Oatmeal with Hazelnuts and Dried Cherries
A warm, comforting bowl of creamy oatmeal studded with toasted hazelnuts and sweet, chewy dried cherries. A perfect, hearty start to your day that's ready in just 15 minutes.
For 2 servings
3 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Toast the Hazelnuts
- b.Place the raw hazelnuts in a small, dry skillet over medium heat.
- c.Toast for 3-5 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they are fragrant and have light brown spots. Be careful not to burn them.
- d.Remove the hazelnuts from the hot pan immediately and set aside to cool. Once cool, roughly chop them.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Oatmeal
- b.In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- c.Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
- d.Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oatmeal is creamy and has absorbed most of the liquid. The consistency should be to your liking.
- e.Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Divide the cooked oatmeal evenly between two bowls.
- c.Top with the chopped toasted hazelnuts and dried cherries.
- d.Drizzle with maple syrup just before serving.
- e.Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For an extra creamy texture, use whole milk or stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- 2Toasting the hazelnuts is a crucial step that deepens their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Don't skip it!
- 3If your oatmeal becomes too thick, simply stir in an extra splash of milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- 4For a smoother hazelnut texture, you can rub the toasted nuts in a clean kitchen towel while they are still warm to remove some of the papery skins.
- 5Salt is a secret weapon in oatmeal; it balances the sweetness and brings out the nutty flavors of the oats.
Adapt it for your goals.
Different Nuts
Swap hazelnuts for toasted pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds.
Other Dried FruitsOther Dried Fruits
Use dried cranberries, chopped dates, figs, or apricots instead of cherries.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice along with the cinnamon for a warmer spice profile.
Protein BoostProtein Boost
Stir in a tablespoon of chia seeds, flax seeds, or a scoop of your favorite protein powder during the last few minutes of cooking.
Make it VeganMake it Vegan
Simply use a plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk. The recipe is naturally vegan-friendly otherwise.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy
Rolled oats are an excellent source of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Sustained Energy Release
The complex carbohydrates in oats are digested slowly, providing a steady release of energy that keeps you full and focused throughout the morning, preventing energy crashes.
Rich in Antioxidants
Hazelnuts and dried cherries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your body's cells from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Supports Gut Health
The fiber in oats acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut and promoting a healthy digestive system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this is a very healthy breakfast. It's rich in soluble fiber from oats, which is great for heart health and digestion. Hazelnuts provide healthy fats and protein, while dried cherries offer antioxidants. Using a natural sweetener like maple syrup makes it a wholesome choice.