Easy Homemade Instant Oatmeal Packets Recipe

Homemade instant oatmeal packets are a convenient and healthy breakfast solution. They are quick and easy to prepare, offering a warm and satisfying meal in minutes using wholesome ingredients. Compared to pre-packaged store-bought options, making your own instant oatmeal is more cost-effective, and you have complete control over the ingredients and flavors.

DIY Instant Oatmeal Packets for a Quick Breakfast

While I enjoy various oatmeal recipes like cinnamon spice oatmeal and overnight oats, these homemade instant oatmeal packets have become a personal favorite! They are incredibly convenient for busy mornings and taste delicious. I’ve opted for brown sugar and cinnamon in this recipe, but the flavor possibilities are truly endless.

Making these packets at home is not only budget-friendly (always a plus!), but it also allows me to control the amount of sugar I consume. The process is simple and customizable. Don’t just take my word for it – try it yourself and experience the convenience and flavor!

Essential Ingredients for Your Oatmeal Packets

• Quick-Cooking Oats: I recommend using Bob’s Red Mill quick-cooking oats, but store brands are also perfectly acceptable. It’s crucial to use quick-cooking oats rather than old-fashioned (rolled) oats. Quick-cooking oats are processed to be thinner, resulting in faster cooking times and a softer texture. If you prefer regular oats, be sure to try my brown sugar cinnamon oatmeal!
• Brown Sugar: I love the rich flavor of brown sugar in my oatmeal. However, feel free to substitute it with regular sugar or coconut sugar when preparing your oatmeal packets. If you’re not making packets in advance, you can also sweeten individual bowls with honey or maple syrup.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon is an optional ingredient, but it adds a wonderful warm spice to the oatmeal. During the fall season, consider using pumpkin pie spice for a festive twist.
• Kosher Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, even in oatmeal!

If you happen to have some old-fashioned oats on hand, don’t worry! I have plenty of delicious oatmeal recipes that you can use them for. Why not try my almond butter oatmeal or my almond butter energy balls?

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Instant Oatmeal Packets at Home

• Combine: In a large bowl, mix together all of the dry ingredients (oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt).
• Stir: Ensure all the ingredients are well combined. Then, divide the oat mixture into small ziplock baggies or airtight containers. Aim for a little more than ½ cup per packet.

• Store: Keep the prepared instant oatmeal packets in a cool, dry place within your pantry or in an airtight container. It is crucial to protect them from moisture.

Cooking Instructions: Making Oatmeal with Your Homemade Packet

• Empty: Pour the contents of one oatmeal packet into a medium-sized bowl.
• Heat: Heat ⅔ cup of water until it is very hot. You can adjust the amount of water based on your preferred consistency.
• Pour: Gradually pour the hot water over the oatmeal, stirring continuously until you achieve the desired consistency. You may not need to use all the water.
• Stir: The oatmeal will thicken as you stir and cool slightly.

Creative Flavor Combinations for Your Oatmeal

One of the best things about making your own oatmeal packets is the ability to easily customize them with your favorite flavors!

• Apple Cinnamon: Add chopped dried apples to the dry mixture. You can also shred some fresh apple into the oatmeal when you prepare your bowl.
• Chocolate: Add ½ cup of dutch cocoa powder to the dry mix and substitute the brown sugar with regular sugar.
• Peanut Butter & Jelly: Add peanut butter powder and chopped peanuts to the dry mixture. Top your cooked oatmeal with a dollop of your favorite strawberry jam.
• Carrot Cake: Add raisins and chopped pecans to the dry mix. Stir in some shredded carrots before enjoying your bowl of oatmeal.
• Banana Nut: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dry mix. Top your bowl of oatmeal with slices of fresh banana.
• Protein Boost: Add your favorite protein powder to the dry mixture for a protein-packed breakfast.

Delicious Oatmeal Toppings to Elevate Your Breakfast

When it comes to oatmeal toppings, your imagination is the only limit! If a combination sounds appealing to you, go ahead and try it out!

• Fresh Fruit: Sliced bananas, blueberries, quartered strawberries, raspberries, blackberries – the possibilities are endless. Bananas are always a classic choice!
• Nuts: Peanuts, roasted almonds, pecans, walnuts, sliced almonds, hazelnuts, or roasted pistachios will add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.
• Granola: Use your favorite store-bought brand or try making my homemade maple walnut granola!
• Nut Butter: A spoonful of almond butter, cashew butter, or peanut butter adds creaminess and protein.
• Freeze-Dried Fruit: Freeze-dried strawberries, raspberries, or pineapple offer a concentrated burst of flavor.
• Jam: A swirl of raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry jam adds a touch of sweetness and fruity flavor.
• Seeds: Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or pepitas provide added nutrients and texture.
• Sweetener: Drizzle a bit of honey, maple syrup, or light agave nectar on top for extra sweetness.

Storage Tips for Your Homemade Oatmeal Packets

• Homemade instant oatmeal packets can be stored in your pantry for up to 2 months (although mine never seem to last that long!).
• Feel free to double or triple this recipe if you have a large family or if you consume oatmeal frequently.

Other Recipes Using Instant Oatmeal

• Instant Oatmeal Cookies
• Overnight Oats with Instant Oatmeal Packets