Name: Custard Oats with Mixed Berry Compote
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup old-fashioned oats (large flake); 1 cup water; ¼ tsp salt; 2 tbsp cold milk; 1-2 large eggs (whisked); 1 cup frozen mixed berries; ¼ tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a nutritious, easy-to-make breakfast that feels indulgent. The creamy custard oats have a rich texture, and the mixed berry compote is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The eggs provide an extra dose of protein, making this a filling meal to start your day off right. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness to your taste, and it’s easily customizable with other toppings like Greek yogurt or granola.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Custard Oats:

½ cup old-fashioned oats (large flake)

1 cup water

¼ tsp salt

2 tbsp cold milk

1-2 large eggs (whisked)

For the Mixed Berry Compote:

1 cup frozen mixed berries

¼ tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Directions

Make the Mixed Berry Compote:

In a small saucepan, combine the frozen mixed berries, vanilla extract, and honey (or maple syrup).

Cook over medium-low heat until the berries break down and become jammy, about 5–7 minutes. Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to mash the berries to help them cook faster.

Set aside while you prepare the custard oats.

Prepare the Custard Oats:

In a medium saucepan, combine the oats, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally with a whisk to break down the oats.

Once the water has been absorbed and the oats are tender, remove the saucepan from the heat.

Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl. Add the cold milk to the oats and stir for about 60 seconds to cool the oatmeal slightly.

Slowly stream the eggs into the oatmeal while whisking continuously. Turn the heat back on to medium-low and cook for 60-90 seconds. The oats will thicken and become creamy. Be careful not to let the eggs cook too much—stir continuously to achieve a smooth custard-like texture.

Assemble the Dish:

Spoon the custard oats into a bowl and top with the warm mixed berry compote.

You can also add additional toppings like a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of granola for extra texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1 serving

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness of the compote by adding more honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter breakfast.

Toppings: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess, or top with a sprinkle of granola for extra crunch.

Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oats for a warm, comforting spice. You can also use other fruits like fresh blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries in the compote.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover custard oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the mixed berry compote separately.

Reheating: Reheat the oats in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to loosen them up. Warm the compote in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the mixed berry compote ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the compote ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Simply reheat it before serving.

Can I add more eggs for extra protein?

Yes, you can add a second egg for extra protein! Start with one egg, and once you get the hang of the recipe, add the second egg for a richer, custard-like texture.

Can I use instant oats for this recipe?

While instant oats will work in a pinch, they don’t have the same texture as old-fashioned oats. The result may be slightly different, but it’s still delicious!

Can I use fresh berries for the compote?

Yes, fresh berries work great for the compote. If using fresh berries, you might need to add a little extra honey or maple syrup to help them cook down into a jammy consistency.

Can I make this recipe for multiple servings?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve more people. Just adjust the cooking times slightly and ensure you have enough space in your saucepan to cook the oats.

Conclusion

This Custard Oats with Mixed Berry Compote is the perfect breakfast to kickstart your day. It’s comforting, nutritious, and easy to make in just 15 minutes. The creamy, custard-like oats combined with the sweet and tangy berry compote make for a satisfying and wholesome meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast to enjoy at home or a quick weekday meal, this recipe has you covered!