18 Delicious Recipes with Quick Oats for Busy Mornings

Carmen Eldridge

April 11, 2025

Are you tired of sacrificing taste for convenience? Look no further! Quick oats are a game-changer for busy mornings, providing a delicious and nutritious start to your day. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that incorporate the humble oat in creative ways. From sweet treats like Oatmeal Banana Pancakes and Strawberry Oatmeal Bars, to savory options like Savory Oats with Spinach and Feta, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a parent seeking healthy snack ideas for your kids, these recipes are sure to become staples in your household. So grab a bowl of oats and get ready to rise and shine!

Oatmeal Banana Pancakes

Oatmeal Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that combines the warmth of oatmeal with the natural sweetness of bananas. These fluffy pancakes are perfect for a quick morning meal or a weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mashed banana, egg, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)

Quick Oats and Honey Granola Bars

Quick Oats and Honey Granola Bars
Make your own granola bars with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time! These Quick Oats and Honey Granola Bars are perfect for snacking on the go or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, honey, brown sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. If using nuts, stir them in at this point.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: 12-16 granola bars

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the nutty flavor of oats with the creamy richness of peanut butter, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch

Overnight Oats with Berries and Almonds

Overnight Oats with Berries and Almonds
Start your day off right with this delicious and nutritious breakfast recipe that combines the natural sweetness of berries, the crunch of almonds, and the creamy texture of oats.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 ounce sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the mixed berries on top of the oat mixture.
3. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the berries.
4. Refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional berries if desired.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins
Start your day off right with these deliciously moist and flavorful apple cinnamon oatmeal muffins, packed with the perfect blend of autumn spices and sweet apples.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, egg, sugar, apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Savory Oatmeal with Fried Egg and Avocado

Savory Oatmeal with Fried Egg and Avocado
This recipe combines the comfort of oatmeal with the richness of a fried egg and creamy avocado, making for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 large egg
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Bring the water or milk to a boil and add the oats, salt, and butter. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. While the oatmeal is cooking, fry an egg in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
3. Once the oatmeal is cooked, stir in any remaining liquid and season with salt to taste.
4. Assemble by placing the fried egg on top of the oatmeal, followed by sliced avocado.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Blueberry Oatmeal Smoothie Bowl

Blueberry Oatmeal Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast bowl that combines the sweetness of blueberries, the creaminess of oatmeal, and the crunch of granola.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Granola for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine oats, blueberries, banana, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
4. Top with granola, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
These Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are perfect for a quick and easy morning treat that’s packed with nutritious ingredients. With rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and dark chocolate chips, you’ll be energized and satisfied until lunchtime.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet dark chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and salt.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Oatmeal Raisin Energy Bites

Oatmeal Raisin Energy Bites
These bite-sized energy balls are packed with rolled oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a post-workout snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup rolled raisins
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oats, raisins, and cinnamon.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking Time: None! These energy bites are no-bake.

Yield: About 12-15 energy bites

Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal

Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this autumnal twist on classic oatmeal. The combination of creamy pumpkin puree, warm spices, and crunchy pecans will transport you to a cozy morning routine.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chopped pecans
– Optional: raisins, honey, or other toppings to your liking

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add oats and cook, stirring occasionally, until creamy and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar and chopped pecans.
6. Serve warm and top with your favorite add-ins (optional).

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Oatmeal and Yogurt Parfait

Oatmeal and Yogurt Parfait
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast parfait that combines the creamy goodness of yogurt, the heartiness of oatmeal, and the sweetness of fresh fruit.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or granola

Instructions:

1. In a small pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt, honey, and salt until well combined.
3. Layer the cooked oatmeal, yogurt mixture, and mixed berries in a parfait glass or a tall clear cup.
4. Top with your choice of optional toppings (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Banana Oatmeal Bread

Banana Oatmeal Bread
This sweet bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the heartiness of oatmeal, perfect for a breakfast treat or snack. With its tender crumb and subtle banana flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and honey or maple syrup (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Oatmeal with Maple Syrup and Walnuts

Oatmeal with Maple Syrup and Walnuts
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious bowl of oatmeal infused with the warmth of maple syrup and crunch of walnuts.

Oatmeal with Maple Syrup and Walnuts Recipe

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: brown sugar, honey, or fruit for added flavor

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
3. Stir in the maple syrup and salt until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
5. Serve hot, topped with any additional flavorings you like (e.g., brown sugar, honey, or fruit).

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Savory Oats with Spinach and Feta

Savory Oats with Spinach and Feta
Start your day with a deliciously savory twist on traditional oats, packed with nutrients from spinach and the tanginess of feta cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the oats, water or milk, and spinach leaves to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the spinach has wilted.
6. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars
Brighten up your day with these chewy and delicious strawberry oatmeal bars, packed with sweet strawberries and crunchy oat goodness. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in sliced strawberries and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Blender Muffins

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Blender Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious treat that’s perfect for breakfast or snack time. These moist and flavorful muffins are made easy with the help of your blender, combining rolled oats, chocolate chips, and a hint of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a blender, combine oats, flour, sugar, and melted butter. Blend until smooth.
3. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon; blend until well combined.
4. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Oatmeal with Chia Seeds and Coconut

Oatmeal with Chia Seeds and Coconut
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious bowl of oatmeal, infused with the wholesome goodness of chia seeds and toasted coconut.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or water
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey, sliced banana, or chopped nuts for topping

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring the almond milk or water to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, chia seeds, and shredded coconut. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the oats have absorbed most of the liquid (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and season with a pinch of salt.
4. Serve hot, topped with your choice of honey, sliced banana, or chopped nuts.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Carrot Cake Oatmeal

Carrot Cake Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of carrot cake oatmeal, packed with the sweet and spicy flavors of traditional carrot cake. This easy-to-make breakfast treat is perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup grated carrots
– 1 tablespoon raisins
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the grated carrots, raisins, and chopped walnuts (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Get your day started with a delicious and nutritious breakfast using quick oats! This article shares 18 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for busy mornings. From sweet treats like oatmeal banana pancakes, peanut butter oatmeal cookies, and apple cinnamon oatmeal muffins, to savory options like savory oatmeal with fried egg and avocado, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like oatmeal with maple syrup and walnuts or a healthier option like oatmeal with chia seeds and coconut, these recipes are sure to please. Try making overnight oats with berries and almonds, strawberry oatmeal bars, or pumpkin spice oatmeal for a tasty start to your day.

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