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Oatmeal Protein Boost - Classic With Nut Butter

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant; about 1/2 cup per serving)
  • Milk or milk alternative (dairy, soy, or pea milk for higher protein; almond or oat milk works too)
  • Water (to adjust texture)
  • Nut butter (peanut, almond, cashew, or mixed nut butter)
  • Salt (just a pinch)
  • Ground cinnamon (optional but recommended)
  • Vanilla extract (optional)
  • Sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or a zero-calorie sweetener, optional)
  • Toppings (sliced banana, berries, chopped nuts, seeds like chia or hemp, and a drizzle of nut butter)
  • Protein additions (optional) (Greek yogurt, protein powder, or cottage cheese)

Method
 

  1. Measure your base: For one serving, use 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 to 3/4 cup milk, and 1/2 cup water. Adjust liquids for thicker or looser oatmeal.
  2. Heat the pot: Add oats, milk, water, a pinch of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon to a small saucepan. Stir to combine.
  3. Cook gently: Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low. Stir occasionally until the oats are creamy, about 5–7 minutes.
  4. Add flavor: Stir in 1/2 to 1 tablespoon nut butter and a few drops of vanilla. Taste and adjust sweetness with maple syrup or honey if you like.
  5. Boost the protein (optional): If using protein powder, remove the pot from heat and mix in 1/2 scoop at a time with a splash of extra milk to keep it smooth. For Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, fold in 1/4 to 1/3 cup off the heat until creamy.
  6. Plate and top: Spoon into a bowl. Add sliced banana or berries, a sprinkle of nuts or seeds, and an extra drizzle of nut butter.
  7. Tweak texture: If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of hot water or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer another minute.