Oats Date Recipe – Easy Indian Breakfast with Milk & Cinnamon

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Oats Date Recipe – Easy Indian Breakfast With Milk & Cinnamon

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… hectic. But a nourishing breakfast is so important to start the day right. This Oats Date recipe is my go-to when I want something warm, comforting, and quick. It’s a simple Indian-inspired breakfast that feels like a hug in a bowl, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another oats recipe. The dates add a natural sweetness and lovely chewiness that takes it to another level. Plus, the cinnamon brings in that warm, cozy flavor we all crave, especially during cooler months. It’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays, and it’s incredibly versatile – I’ll show you how to customize it to your liking later on!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 1 cup Oats
• 1 cup skimmed Milk (about 240ml)
• 8 Dates, pitted and chopped
• 1 tbsp Honey (optional)
• 0.5 tbsp Cinnamon powder (about 2.5g)
• 2 tbsp Almond flakes (about 10g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Dates: Varieties & Sweetness Levels

I prefer using Medjool dates for this recipe because they’re soft and have a caramel-like flavor. However, any variety will work! Just keep in mind that some dates are drier than others. If yours are a bit tough, soaking them in warm water for a few extra minutes will help.

Oats: Choosing the Right Type (Rolled vs. Quick-Cooking)

Rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) are my go-to for texture. They hold their shape a little better and give a nice, hearty bite. Quick-cooking oats work in a pinch, but the porridge will be softer. Avoid instant oats, as they can get mushy.

Milk: Dairy & Non-Dairy Options

Skimmed milk is what I usually use to keep it lighter, but feel free to use whatever milk you prefer! Full-fat milk will make it extra creamy. Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk are fantastic vegan alternatives – they all add a slightly different flavor profile.

Cinnamon: Sourcing & Flavor Profile

Good quality cinnamon makes a big difference. I like Ceylon cinnamon for its delicate, sweet flavor. But any cinnamon you have on hand will work beautifully.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, let’s get those dates ready. Pop your pitted and chopped dates into a bowl and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 15 minutes – this softens them up and infuses the milk with their lovely flavor.
2. Now, pour the milk and dates into a skillet over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle boil.
3. Once boiling, add the oats. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens!
4. Continue cooking and stirring for another 2-3 minutes, until the dates are softened and the oats have thickened to your liking.
5. If you like a little extra sweetness, stir in the honey now. And don’t forget the cinnamon powder! Give it a good stir to combine.
6. Remove from the heat and serve warm, topped with those crunchy almond flakes.

Expert Tips

• Don’t walk away while the oats are simmering! Stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• If the oats get too thick, simply add a splash more milk.
• For a creamier texture, use a whisk while cooking.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Adaptation

Super easy! Just use your favorite plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk work great) and swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Cardamom or Nutmeg)

My friend Priya loves adding a pinch of cardamom powder for a more fragrant flavor. A little nutmeg is also delicious! About ¼ teaspoon of either spice is perfect.

Sweetness Level (Adjusting Honey or Using Jaggery)

If you prefer a less sweet breakfast, reduce the amount of honey or skip it altogether. You can also use jaggery (gur) for a more traditional Indian sweetness.

Festival Adaptation (Adding Dried Fruits for Makar Sankranti)

During Makar Sankranti, my family loves adding a handful of chopped dried fruits like raisins, cashews, and pistachios to this recipe. It makes it extra festive and delicious!

Gluten-Free Considerations

Oats are naturally gluten-free, but they can sometimes be processed in facilities that also handle wheat. If you have a gluten sensitivity, look for certified gluten-free oats.

Serving Suggestions

This oats recipe is wonderful on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your breakfast:

• A dollop of yogurt (dairy or plant-based)
• A sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra nutrients
• Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Is this recipe suitable for diabetics?

While dates are a natural sweetener, they still contain sugar. If you have diabetes, it’s best to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine if this recipe is appropriate for you. You can reduce the amount of dates or use a sugar substitute.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can definitely prep some components ahead of time! Soak the dates in milk the night before. Then, in the morning, you can quickly finish cooking the oats.

What are some other toppings I can use besides almond flakes?

The possibilities are endless! Try chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, cashews), seeds (pumpkin, sunflower), shredded coconut, or a drizzle of nut butter.

Can I use a different type of milk, like almond or soy milk?

Absolutely! As mentioned earlier, almond, soy, and oat milk all work beautifully.

How can I adjust the consistency of the oats?

If you prefer thicker oats, use less milk or simmer for a longer time. For thinner oats, add more milk.

Enjoy! I really hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!