Vanilla Berry Oat Breakfast Cups
Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Collection
I absolutely love starting my day with these Vanilla Berry Oat Breakfast Cups. They are incredibly easy to whip up and it's a real treat to have a nutritious breakfast ready to go. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet berries, and hearty oats provides the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they are versatile, allowing me to switch up the fruits based on what I have on hand. Whether I'm rushing out the door or leisurely enjoying my morning, these breakfast cups always make my day brighter!
When I first experimented with these Vanilla Berry Oat Breakfast Cups, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. I decided to use almond milk for a nuttier base, and the result was heavenly! The baked oats turn into a soft, custardy texture, while the berries burst with flavor. It’s a comforting yet healthy dish that I find myself reaching for again and again.
I also discovered that I could prep these cups in advance, which makes my mornings much smoother. Storing them in individual portions allows me to grab one and go. I sometimes like to mix in a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost, and they hold up beautifully!
You'll Love These Breakfast Cups Because
- Wholesome ingredients that fuel your morning
- Customizable with your favorite fruits and nuts
- Perfectly portioned for a grab-and-go breakfast
- Comforting baked texture with a delightful crunch
Nutritional Benefits
These Vanilla Berry Oat Breakfast Cups are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. The rolled oats provide a hearty source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health and helps keep you feeling full. Each cup contains protein from the Greek yogurt, which can be optional yet adds a creamy finish if included. Coupled with the antioxidants from the mixed berries, these breakfast cups are a wholesome way to kickstart your day.
In addition to the fiber and protein benefits, using almond milk is a great way to lower calories while still maintaining a satisfying texture. It makes the cups dairy-free, catering to those with dietary restrictions. If you prefer a creamier base, feel free to swap almond milk for coconut milk or even regular cow's milk, depending on your preference.
Technical Tips
When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, ensure that you don't overmix. Aim for just enough stir to combine the ingredients without making the mixture gummy. This technique will help maintain a lighter texture in your breakfast cups. Look for a homogenous mixture with a slight gloss before folding in the berries; this ensures an even distribution of flavors without breaking the berries.
Greasing your muffin tin thoroughly is crucial to prevent sticking. I like to use a non-stick spray or line the tins with paper liners for easy removal. If you find that the cups are sticking during removal, let them cool a bit longer in the tin. This resting allows steam to escape, making them easier to handle without falling apart.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for topping)
Mix these ingredients to create your delicious breakfast cups!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your breakfast cups:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt.
Combine the wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together almond milk, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
Add the berries
Gently fold in the mixed berries.
Fill the muffin tin
Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cups to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Serve warm or store in the fridge for later.
Enjoy your wholesome breakfast cups!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider topping each cup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts before serving.
Storage & Make-Ahead
These breakfast cups are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, and they store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds when you're ready to eat, making your mornings as convenient as possible.
If you're looking to extend their shelf life even further, consider freezing the baked cups. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or pop them straight into the microwave from frozen for a quick breakfast.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to customize the fruits based on your preferences or what's in season. If mixed berries aren’t available, sliced bananas, chopped apples, or even peaches work wonderfully. For a different flavor profile, add a pinch of cinnamon or a tablespoon of nut butter to the wet mixture. This adds a delightful twist and additional richness to the cups.
If you want to make these breakfast cups vegan, simply replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup in place of honey. This ensures that you maintain the creamy texture and sweetness without compromising on dietary choices. You can even experiment with different nut milks like oat milk or soy milk for new flavors.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, frozen berries work well! Just ensure to thaw them slightly before adding to the mix.
→ How long do these breakfast cups last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your yogurt is dairy-free.
→ Do I need to use almond milk?
No, you can substitute with any milk of your choice, such as soy, oat, or cow's milk.
Vanilla Berry Oat Breakfast Cups
I absolutely love starting my day with these Vanilla Berry Oat Breakfast Cups. They are incredibly easy to whip up and it's a real treat to have a nutritious breakfast ready to go. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet berries, and hearty oats provides the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they are versatile, allowing me to switch up the fruits based on what I have on hand. Whether I'm rushing out the door or leisurely enjoying my morning, these breakfast cups always make my day brighter!
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Light Healthy Meals Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 cups
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for topping)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together almond milk, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
Gently fold in the mixed berries.
Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the cups to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Serve warm or store in the fridge for later.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider topping each cup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 8g