I used to think peaches and cream oatmeal only came from those overly sweet instant packets. That all changed one summer morning when, inspired by a bowl of perfectly ripe peaches on my counter, I decided to make my own. The fresh, creamy result was a revelation, and this homemade Peaches and Cream Oatmeal recipe has been my go-to ever since. It’s a warm, nourishing breakfast that feels special without any fuss, turning simple ingredients into a truly comforting bowl.
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal Base
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (or your preferred dairy-free alternative)
- Pinch of salt
For the Peaches and Cream
- 1 cup diced fresh peaches (or frozen/canned peaches)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for topping)
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or pecans)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Chia seeds or flaxseeds
- A sprinkle of nutmeg
How to Make Peaches and Cream Oatmeal
This recipe comes together in just a few straightforward steps. Before you know it, you’ll have a delicious, warm bowl of oatmeal ready to enjoy.
- Start by cooking the oats. Combine the oats, milk, and salt in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender.
- Next, add the diced peaches, sweetener, and cinnamon to the pot. Stir gently and let everything simmer together for another minute or two. This allows the peaches to soften slightly and infuse the oatmeal with their sweet juices.
- Finally, finish the oatmeal and serve. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the Peaches and Cream Oatmeal into a bowl, top with a drizzle of cream and any other garnishes you like, and serve warm!
My Best Peaches and Cream Oatmeal Tips
After making this many times, I’ve learned a few things that make all the difference.
The Secret to Incredibly Creamy Oatmeal
My best tip isn’t just about adding cream. The real secret is to stir the oatmeal vigorously for about 30 seconds just before you take it off the heat. This action helps break down the starches in the oats, creating a naturally creamier texture without extra fat.
Meal Prep This Recipe
For busy mornings, make a larger batch of the oatmeal base and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, scoop out a serving, add a splash of milk to loosen it, and microwave for a minute. Then, stir in the cream and fresh peaches.
Balance the Sweetness Naturally
Always taste the oatmeal after the peaches have cooked before adding sweetener. When peaches are ripe and in season, their natural sweetness is often enough, and you’ll find you need much less honey or syrup than you think.
Variations of Creamy Peach Oatmeal
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Here are a few quick ideas.
- Baked Oatmeal: Combine all ingredients (except the cream) in a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until set.
- High-Protein Oatmeal: Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or a tablespoon of chia seeds at the end of cooking.
- Spiced Peach Oatmeal: Add a pinch of ground ginger along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warm spice.
- Overnight Oats: In a jar, combine the oats, milk, sweetener, peaches, and a tablespoon of chia seeds. Refrigerate overnight and top with cream in the morning.
For more healthy breakfast inspiration, consider trying our Banana Protein Pancakes for an energizing start to your day.
FAQs
Is Peaches and Cream Oatmeal Good for You?
Yes! When made at home, it’s a healthy choice packed with fiber from oats and vitamins from peaches. You control the sugar and fat, making it a nutritious meal.
What Fruit Combinations Go Best with Oatmeal?
Oatmeal is a great base for many fruits. Try blueberries and lemon, apples and cinnamon, or bananas and chopped walnuts.
How Many Calories Are in This Oatmeal?
The calorie count ranges from roughly 250-450 calories per serving, depending on your choice of milk, cream, and toppings.
How Can I Make Oatmeal Creamy Without Milk?
To get a creamy texture without dairy, stir the oats vigorously as they cook. You can also add a spoonful of coconut cream or mashed banana at the end for extra richness.
PrintPeaches and Cream Oatmeal
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Forget the instant packets! This homemade Peaches and Cream Oatmeal recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a truly comforting and luxurious breakfast. Fresh peaches are simmered with creamy rolled oats and a touch of vanilla, then finished with a drizzle of cream for a nourishing bowl that tastes like a warm hug. It’s a special-feeling breakfast that’s incredibly easy to make any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal Base
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
2 cups milk (or your preferred dairy-free alternative)
Pinch of salt
For the Peaches and Cream
1 cup diced fresh peaches (or frozen/canned peaches)
1−2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for topping)
Optional Add-Ins
Chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or pecans)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Chia seeds or flaxseeds
A sprinkle of nutmeg
Instructions
Cook the Oats
In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, and pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
Add the Peaches
Stir the diced peaches, your choice of sweetener (honey or maple syrup), and cinnamon (if using) into the saucepan. Let everything simmer together for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the peaches to soften and release their sweet juices into the oatmeal.
Finish and Serve
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. For an extra creamy texture, stir vigorously for 30 seconds. Pour the oatmeal into bowls, top with a drizzle of cream, and add any other optional toppings you desire. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
The Secret to Creaminess:
For an incredibly creamy texture without adding extra fat, stir the oatmeal vigorously for about 30 seconds just before removing it from the heat. This helps break down the starches in the oats.
Meal Prep:
Cook a larger batch of the oatmeal base and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, scoop a serving into a bowl, add a splash of milk, and microwave for 60-90 seconds. Stir in fresh peaches and a drizzle of cream before serving.
Natural Sweetness:
Ripe, in-season peaches are naturally sweet. Be sure to taste the oatmeal after the peaches have cooked in before adding any sweetener you might need less than you think!
Recipe Variations:
Try a baked version by combining all ingredients (except the cream) in a baking dish and baking at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. For an overnight oats version, combine oats, milk, sweetener, peaches, and a tablespoon of chia seeds in a jar and refrigerate overnight.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 453 kcal
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: peaches and cream oatmeal, homemade oatmeal, peach oatmeal, creamy oatmeal recipe, healthy breakfast, rolled oats recipe, fresh peach recipe, summer breakfast