Simple Honey Oatmeal (Better Than Instant)

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Honey oatmeal is a cozy, creamy, naturally sweetened breakfast made with rolled oats, milk, or water, and a touch of honey. It's simple, wholesome, and endlessly customizable with your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices.

Bowl of creamy honey oatmeal topped with blueberries and a drizzle of honey using a wooden dipper.

Growing up, warm porridge was always a part of our breakfast, and I continue this tradition to this day. Looking for more hearty and comforting breakfast ideas? Try this cinnamon oatmeal or barley breakfast porridge next.

My honey oatmeal stands out with one simple step: toasting the oats in a bit of butter.

It takes just a few extra minutes but transforms the flavor-giving you a warm, nutty, and slightly chewy oatmeal that's still creamy and comforting.

Why you will love this recipe

Easy and mess-free: the recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together in one pot.
Naturally sweet: these oats are sweetened only with honey, no refined sugar
One secret step: Toasting the oats in butter before cooking brings out a warm, nutty taste that makes it feel more like a special treat than just breakfast.
Meal-prep friendly: make a large batch on Sunday to have a hearty breakfast ready for the next few days.

Gather your ingredients

Ingredients for honey oatmeal measured out, including rolled oats, milk, water, honey, butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.

Rolled oats: I used old-fashioned rolled oats. They cook a little bit longer but give a creamier texture and hold their shape nicely. If you are short on time, you can use quick oats instead.
Honey: I used our local Colorado honey. Try using local, raw honey when possible.
Butter: You can use butter, ghee butter, or coconut oil to toast the oats.
Water and milk: you can use only water, but I usually cook them using both. You can use dairy-free nut drinks instead of milk.
Spices, vanilla, salt: I used cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for taste balance.

Making honey oatmeal breakfast

This is the step-by-step recipe with the timeline to help you plan your breakfast better!

Step-by-step photo collage showing how to make honey oatmeal from toasting oats to simmering and adding raw honey

Step 1 (0:00 - 2:00 min): Gather the ingredients.
Step 2 (2:00 - 6:00 min): Toast the oats in butter over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring them often.
Step 2 (6:00 - 9:00 min): Add water, milk, salt, and spices and bring it to a boil.
Step 3 (9:00 - 24:00 min): Simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats are fully cooked. (Note: cook for 10 min for chewier oats, and 15 min for softer and creamier oats).
Step 4 (24:00 - 27:00 min)Turn off the heat, uncover, and let the oats cool slightly. Stir in the honey.
Step 5: (27:00 - 28:00 min)Top with berries, fresh fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of extra honey.Add-ons and toppings

Top tip

Do not add honey to the boiling oats, as honey doesn't react well to high heat-it can lose its delicate flavor and some of its natural health benefits. Instead, stir in the honey after cooking, when the oatmeal has cooled slightly.`

To store

When the oatmeal cools down, transfer it into an airtight container. Store honey oats in the fridge for up to 3 days.

You can reheat it in a small pot or microwave with a little bit of water or milk added, so it does not burn or get stuck to the pot.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats cook faster and you can even make them in a microwave. But they are less chewy compared to the rolled?.

Can I use a dairy-free milk?

Yes, you can use any dairy-free milk you have or use only water.

When should I add the honey?

Add honey after cooking, once the oats have cooled slightly. Adding it too early can reduce its flavor.

Can I freeze honey oatmeal?

Yes, you can freeze honey oatmeal for up to 3 months. I recommend freezing it in portions.

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