This warm and cozy spiced pear oatmeal is a morning treat! With sweet pears and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it brings comfort and joy to your breakfast table.
I can’t resist adding a drizzle of honey on top for that extra sweetness. Plus, it’s a healthy way to start the day—who wouldn’t love that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base for your oatmeal. Old-fashioned rolled oats give the best texture but quick oats can work too. Just remember that instant oats will cook faster and may not be as hearty.
Pear: Fresh, ripe pears add sweetness and flavor. If you don’t have pears, apples are great for a similar taste. I love using Bosc or Anjou pears for their sweetness and texture.
Milk: Any milk works here! Almond, oat, or soy milk are fantastic dairy-free choices. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, try using coconut milk for a creamy twist.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are key for flavor. If you want more warmth, add a pinch of cardamom. I enjoy the added kick of ginger too, especially in colder months.
Sweetener: Maple syrup adds a lovely touch, but honey or agave syrup can also work. For a lower-sugar option, you might try mashed banana or date syrup – they blend well into the oats.
How Do I Make Sure My Oatmeal is Creamy and Delicious?
Cooking oatmeal to the right consistency can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by combining oats with plenty of liquid—2 cups of milk to 1 cup of oats is a great ratio for creaminess.
- Cook on medium heat and stir often to prevent sticking, especially as it thickens.
- Add your fruit early on so it softens and flavors the oats.
- Use vanilla extract and spices towards the end for a delicious aroma while cooking!
Letting the oatmeal rest for a minute after cooking allows it to absorb the liquid more, making it even creamier!
How to Make Spiced Pear Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 ripe pear, cored and thinly sliced (keep the skin on if desired)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of ground cloves (optional)
- Additional pear slices, for garnish
- Extra oats or granola, for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spiced pear oatmeal will take about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy mornings, yet satisfying enough to enjoy at leisure. Just a few minutes to mix and stir, and you’ll have a cozy breakfast ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium saucepan and adding the rolled oats, milk, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger (if you like a bit of spice), salt, and any cloves you’re using. Stir everything together well to combine.
2. Heat the Mixture:
Put the saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. This helps prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Add the Pear for Sweetness:
Once the mixture is simmering, add half of your thinly sliced pear into the saucepan. Stir it in and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oatmeal is tender and creamy. You’ll notice a delicious sweet aroma as the pear softens!
4. Sweeten to Taste:
After the oats are done cooking, stir in your maple syrup or honey along with the vanilla extract. Taste it to adjust the sweetness as you prefer—add a bit more if you’re feeling indulgent!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is well mixed and creamy, turn off the heat. Spoon the oatmeal into bowls and top with the remaining pear slices. If you fancy, sprinkle some extra oats or granola on top for a delightful crunch. Don’t forget a light dusting of cinnamon for that extra hint of spice!
6. Enjoy Your Creation!
Dig into your warm, deliciously spiced pear oatmeal. It’s a cozy and nutritious way to start your day off right!
Enjoy every comforting bite! 😊
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but they will cook faster and result in a softer texture. Follow the package instructions on cooking time, and reduce the simmering time in the recipe to about 3-5 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Pears on Hand?
No problem! You can substitute pears with apples or even bananas. Just ensure that they are ripe for the best sweetness. Cook the apple slices until tender or mash the banana into your oatmeal for a creamy texture.
How Can I Make This Oatmeal Vegan?
It’s simple! Just use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of dairy. You can also substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave syrup to keep it fully vegan.
Can I Prep This Oatmeal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your oatmeal mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just heat it up on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if you prefer a creamier consistency.
