Overnight oats are the ultimate easy and healthy breakfast hack. They are perfect for busy mornings as you can make individual servings ahead of time, store them in the fridge and then enjoy them on the go. But what if you're in the mood for a warm and comforting bowl of oats instead of a chilled breakfast? The good news is that you can indeed heat your overnight oats, without loosing any of the taste, plus the added benefit of aiding digestion. In this guide we'll walk you through the steps to transform your cold oats into a warm and satisfying breakfast.

Ingredients:

• Overnight oats (prepared the night before) check out the perfect overnight oats method.
• Milk or water (if needed for desired consistency)
• Toppings of your choice (e.g., fruits, nuts, seeds, sweeteners)

How to Heat Your Overnight Oats

1. Choose the Right Container

Use a microwave-safe container or a small saucepan (if you prefer to heat on the stovetop). This ensures safe and efficient heating.

2. Add Liquid if Necessary:

Depending on your desired consistency, you might need to add a bit of milk or water to the oats before heating. This step prevents the oats from becoming too thick during the heating process.

3. Microwave Method:

• Place the container in the microwave.
• Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Keep an eye on it to avoid overflow, as oats tend to bubble when heated.

4. Stovetop Method:

• Transfer your overnight oats to a small saucepan.
• Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
• Once warmed through, remove from heat.

5.Adjust Consistency

If your oats become too thick after heating, simply add more milk or water until you achieve your desired consistency. This step allows you to customise the texture of your oats. All that is left to do is top with your favourite fruits, nuts and sweeteners and enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits of Heated Oats

Is there a decisive advantage between opting for cold or heated oats in the morning? Both variations offer their own benefits, but when it comes to heating overnight oats, there's a potential advantage for digestion. The process of heating oats breaks down complex starches, rendering them more easily digestible. This is wonderful news for individuals with sensitive digestive systems, promoting improved nutrient absorption.

The cooking process initiates the breakdown of various compounds in the food, contributing to enhanced nutrient absorption during digestion. Specifically, the application of heat can facilitate the absorption of minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus, which are naturally present in oats.

Get Creative with Overnight Oats

Explore exciting flavour combinations to enhance your heated overnight oats. Experiment with ingredients like cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a touch of nutmeg for added warmth and depth. Check out some of our favourite overnight oats recipes below for some more inspiration: