I love how this recipe turns a simple bowl of oatmeal into something fragrant and calming. I like that it uses everyday pantry ingredients, comes together in about 15 minutes, and feels nourishing without being heavy. I also appreciate how flexible it is, since I can easily adjust the milk or toppings based on what I have.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup soy milk or plant based milk of preference
1 cup water
1 cinnamon stick or 1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 Earl Grey tea bag
1 cup rolled oats or clearly marked gluten-free rolled oats
1 small banana, mashed or cut into coins
1 tbsp ground flaxseed
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Directions
I start by adding the soy milk, water, cinnamon stick, and tea bag to a medium saucepan. I bring everything to a low simmer and let it infuse for about 2 to 3 minutes.
I remove the tea bag with a spoon and gently squeeze out the extra liquid back into the pan.
I add the rolled oats, banana, ground flaxseed, vanilla extract, and salt, then stir well. I let the oatmeal simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy. I serve it warm with my favorite toppings.
Servings and Timing
I get 2 servings from this recipe. I usually spend about 5 minutes prepping and around 10 minutes cooking, for a total time of roughly 15 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes swap the banana for grated apple or pear when I want a different sweetness. I also like adding a splash of maple syrup or a bit of orange zest to highlight the Earl Grey flavor. When I want extra richness, I stir in a spoon of nut butter just before serving.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or water and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring well to bring back the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make this oatmeal without banana?
I can replace the banana with maple syrup, honey, or another mashed fruit if I prefer a different sweetness.
Does the oatmeal taste strongly of tea?
I find the Earl Grey flavor gentle and aromatic, not overpowering, especially balanced with cinnamon and vanilla.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
I can use quick oats, but I reduce the cooking time since they soften much faster.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
I make it gluten-free by using oats that are clearly labeled gluten-free.
Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?
I often make it ahead and reheat it during the week, adding a little extra liquid to keep it creamy.
Conclusion
I enjoy this Earl Grey Oatmeal as a warm, comforting breakfast that feels both nourishing and a bit indulgent. I like how simple it is to prepare while still offering unique flavor, making it a recipe I come back to whenever I want something cozy and different.
