This creamy custard oats recipe is perfect for breakfast! It’s warm, tasty, and has a soft texture that makes each spoonful feel cozy. Topping it with fresh mixed berries adds a fruity twist!
I love how easy these oats are to whip up. Just cook, stir, and pour on the berry sauce—breakfast doesn’t get much simpler! Plus, it’s like a dessert for breakfast! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are the go-to choice for creamy texture and quick cooking. If you have steel-cut oats, use those, but remember to cook them longer and adjust the liquid ratio.
Milk: Use any milk you like! Dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk all work well. I often go with almond milk for a nutty flavor that complements the oats beautifully.
Egg: The egg adds creaminess and richness. If you’re vegan or allergic, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute, though it won’t be as rich.
Custard Powder: If you can’t find custard powder, cornstarch can work in a pinch. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a splash of milk before adding to prevent lumps.
Mixed Berries: Fresh mixed berries are fantastic! You can substitute with frozen berries or even apples or peaches, depending on the season.
How Do You Make Sure the Oats Stay Creamy?
Getting your oats creamy and thick is crucial for this dish. Start with medium heat and stir continuously as they cook. Here’s how:
- Combine the oats, milk, custard powder, and sugar in a saucepan.
- Heat slowly to allow the oats to absorb the liquid without burning.
- When the mixture is thickening, temper the egg separately to avoid scrambling.
- Keep stirring to ensure everything mixes well and stays smooth while cooking. Don’t rush it!
With these tips in mind, your custard oats will be smooth and creamy every time. Enjoy your breakfast treat!
How to Make Easy Custard Oats with Fresh Mixed Berry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Custard Oats:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons custard powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Fresh Mixed Berry Sauce:
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for the berry sauce)
Optional Toppings:
- Greek yogurt or cream (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes to cook, making it a quick option for busy mornings. You’ll spend a few minutes preparing the oats and the berry sauce, and the rest is just cooking. Easy and delightful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Custard Oats:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, custard powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix everything, ensuring the custard powder dissolves properly into the milk without any lumps. This will set the base for your creamy oats.
2. Cook the Oats:
Place the pan over medium heat and cook the mixture. Stir frequently as it heats up, allowing it to thicken gradually. This helps create a smooth custard texture.
3. Temper the Egg:
In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg. To prevent scrambling, temper the egg by whisking in a few tablespoons of the hot oat mixture into the egg gently. This raises the temperature of the egg without cooking it too quickly.
4. Combine and Cook Further:
Slowly pour the tempered egg back into the saucepan with the oats, stirring continuously to avoid curdling. Keep cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the oats are creamy, thick, and custard-like. Once done, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
5. Make the Fresh Mixed Berry Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries and honey or maple syrup over medium heat. Cook gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the berries soften and release their juices. You can mash some berries with the back of a spoon for a more sauce-like consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the warm custard oats into bowls and generously spoon the warm mixed berry sauce over one side. For added creaminess, you can top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a swirl of cream. Enjoy it warm for a comforting start to your day!
With the soft, creamy custard oat base balanced by the fresh, slightly tart berry sauce, this dish is not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Dive in and enjoy your breakfast treat!
FAQ for Easy Custard Oats with Fresh Mixed Berry Sauce
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Quick oats cook faster and may result in a creamier, less chewy consistency. Reduce the cooking time by a few minutes to prevent overcooking.
Can I Omit the Egg from the Recipe?
While the egg adds creaminess and richness, you can omit it for a vegan version. Use a flax egg as a substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for added thickness, though the custard-like texture may be less pronounced.
How Should I Store Leftover Oats?
Store any leftover custard oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Use Frozen Berries for the Sauce?
Absolutely! Frozen berries work well for the sauce; just keep in mind that they may release more liquid than fresh berries, so you might need to cook them a bit longer to thicken the sauce. No need to thaw them beforehand!
