Cherry Almond Delight Oats

Name: Cherry Almond Delight Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 2 cups almond milk; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals

I love starting my day with Cherry Almond Delight Oats, a deliciously vibrant breakfast that combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds. The combination not only satisfies my hunger but also gives me a gentle energy boost. Preparing this dish is a breeze, as I can whip it up in just a few minutes while still enjoying a nutritious meal. The warm oats, along with the bright cherry and almond flavor, truly make my mornings special.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:50:27.643Z

I first stumbled upon Cherry Almond Delight Oats during a lazy weekend morning when I wanted something quick yet delightful. The vibrant colors of the cherries mixed with the creamy oats caught my eye as I rummaged through my pantry. I combined rolled oats with almond milk, topped it with fresh cherries, and, to my surprise, it became an instant favorite!

This dish works wonders because soaking the oats allows them to absorb flavors beautifully, creating a harmonious blend that excites the taste buds. I often add some chopped almonds for that extra crunch and protein boost, making it a balanced meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy, fresh cherries provide a burst of flavor
Creamy oat base enhances the nutty almond taste
Ready in just 15 minutes for a quick, nutritious breakfast

      

The Role of Cherries in Cherry Almond Delight Oats

Cherries are the star of this breakfast dish, providing both vibrant color and an explosion of flavor. Their natural sweetness balances the nutty richness of the almonds, creating a delightful contrast. Using fresh, in-season cherries will enhance the dish's overall quality; look for plump, shiny cherries that are firm to the touch. If fresh cherries are unavailable, you can substitute them with frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess juice to avoid making the oats too watery.

When you add the cherries to the warm oats, the heat releases their juices, infusing the dish with even more flavor. This is particularly important, as the heated cherries become soft but maintain a slight texture, ensuring each bite still has a pleasant chewiness. This balance of textures—from creamy oats to juicy cherries—makes each spoonful of Cherry Almond Delight Oats a treat.

Perfecting the Oat Consistency

The key to achieving the perfect oat texture lies in the cooking process. When you simmer the oats in almond milk, keep the heat at medium to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Stir occasionally and watch for the transformation; after about five minutes, the oats should be creamy and slightly thickened. If you prefer a thicker consistency, be prepared to cook them for an additional minute or two. Always remember that different brands of rolled oats can absorb liquid differently, so adjust the cooking time as necessary.

If you find yourself with leftover cooked oats, don't worry—they can be easily reheated. Just add a splash of almond milk or water when warming them up to restore their creamy texture. Alternatively, you can store leftover oats in the fridge for up to three days, making weekday breakfasts even easier.

Customizing Your Cherry Almond Delight Oats

One of the great things about this oatmeal recipe is its adaptability. Beyond the basic cherries and almonds, consider adding toppings such as a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess or a sprinkle of chia seeds for added nutrition. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile further—just a pinch can add a warm depth that complements the sweetness of the cherries beautifully.

For a gluten-free option, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats, as some brands might be processed in facilities that also handle gluten products. If you're avoiding nuts, feel free to swap out the sliced almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, which will provide a similar crunch and nutritional benefits.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Cherry Almond Delight Oats:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups almond milk
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have your ingredients measured and ready before cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Cherry Almond Delight Oats:

Cook the Oats

In a medium saucepan, combine rolled oats, almond milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats are creamy.

Add Flavor

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and maple syrup if using. Mix well to incorporate flavors.

Serve and Enjoy

Divide the cooked oats into bowls. Top with fresh cherries and sliced almonds. Enjoy your Cherry Almond Delight Oats warm!

Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences!

Pro Tips

For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding a spoonful of chia seeds or a scoop of protein powder while cooking the oats. Additionally, you can switch out the cherries for other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches.

Ingredient Benefits

Rolled oats serve as the foundation of this breakfast, offering whole grains packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. A bowl of Cherry Almond Delight Oats can help maintain steady energy levels throughout the morning, thanks to the complex carbohydrates in the oats. Incorporating almond milk not only adds a creamy texture but is also a great dairy-free option, rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D.

Sliced almonds, while providing a delicious crunch, also contribute healthy fats and protein, making this dish not just filling but also nutritious. Their fat content can help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and provide long-lasting energy. If you want to boost the protein content, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the oats when cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry Almond Delight Oats are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with an assortment of toppings and side dishes. For an added sweetness, consider drizzling some extra maple syrup or honey over the finished bowl. Additionally, pairing it with a side of fresh fruit or a smoothie will round out your breakfast for a well-balanced meal.

If you enjoy a variety of textures in your meals, try toasting the sliced almonds beforehand. Toasting releases their natural oils and enhances their flavor, providing a warm, nutty aroma that complements the dish well. Simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for about 3-5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.

Making It Ahead

For those busy mornings when time is of the essence, preparing your Cherry Almond Delight Oats in advance can be a game changer. Cook a larger batch of oats and store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave and add your fresh toppings before serving. This meal prep approach ensures you have a quick breakfast option that doesn’t compromise on health or flavor.

Alternatively, you can prepare a batch of overnight oats using the same ingredients minus the almond milk. Combine rolled oats, cherries, and sliced almonds in a jar, then add almond milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Refrigerate overnight, and you’ll have a ready-to-eat breakfast for those who prefer a no-cook option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other non-dairy milk?

Yes, any non-dairy milk like oat or coconut milk will work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare the oats in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the oats the night before and simply reheat them in the morning.

→ What can I use instead of cherries?

Feel free to use other berries or fruits such as bananas, apples, or peaches for a different flavor.