Is Oatmeal Better With Milk or Water? Tips For The Best Oatmeal

Are you lactose intolerant? Ever wonder if oatmeal is better with milk or water?

Oatmeal made with milk tends to be creamier and richer in flavor compared to oatmeal made with water.

However given that a proportion of the population is lactose intolerant, one of my main goals as a dietitian is to make food available and accessible for everyone- no matter what your dietary preferences are.

In this article, I will share my tips on how to make deliciously creamy oatmeal that is easy and delicious without milk.

If you're a dairy eater, you'll love my recipes for cottage cheese pudding and cottage cheese bagels.

How to make delicious oatmeal without dairy

picture of oatmeal before it is prepared

Choose non-dairy milk

If you have the time to make your own non-dairy milk at home, it is definitely a level up from the store bought versions. These non-dairy options can usually be found in a carton and stored at room temperature.

Soy Milk

Soy milk is my favorite choice for making creamy non-dairy oatmeal because it is high in protein and nutritionally the most similar to dairy milk.

It has a neutral taste which really allows the other flavors in your oatmeal to shine through.

Oat Milk

Oat milk, made from soaked oats, has a naturally sweet flavor and is another great option for making creamy oatmeal. It blends seamlessly with oatmeal, since it essentially has oats in it.

vegan baked oatmeal with blueberries — Single Serving Baked Oatmeal RECIPE (No eggs, High Protein)

The best Toppings and ingredients for creamy oatmeal

Mashed bananas

This is by far my favorite ingredient to add.

Mashed bananas not only add natural sweetness but also create a velvety and creamy texture in your oatmeal.

Nut butter

Almond butter, creamy all-natural peanut butter, or any nut butter of your choice can add a rich and creamy consistency to your oatmeal.

Applesauce

If you have some unsweetened applesauce, try throwing some into your oatmeal to add a natural sweetness and creaminess.

Chia Seeds

Combining chia seeds and water will help thicken the oatmeal and provide a unique gel-like texture.

Make sure to wait for the chia seeds to fully expand and thicken.

Protein powder

I love adding protein powder to my oatmeal not only for the protein boost but also because it creates a smooth and creamy texture.

If you want an even thicker texture, you can also try adding casein powder to your oatmeal.

blueberry overnight oats with cinnamon and frozen blueberries — Blueberry Overnight Oats with Protein Powder

Benefits of Oatmeal

Oats are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

They are an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full for longer.

Oatmeal is also rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, further contributing to a healthier heart.

infographic on the nutritional benefits of oats — Oatmeal Pros and Cons – Dietitian Reviews

Cooking Oatmeal with Water

Pros	- Simple and easy preparation
	- Neutral flavor of oats
	- Suitable for those on a low-fat diet
	- Vegan and lactose-free option
Cons	- May lack creaminess compared to milk
	- Fewer added nutrients
	- Less richness in taste compared to milk
	- Limited flavor enhancement
	- Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance

Cooking Oatmeal with Milk

Pros	- Creamy and indulgent texture
	- Adds extra nutrients (calcium, protein)
	- Provides richness and depth of flavor
	- Enhances the overall taste of oatmeal
	- Suitable for those who enjoy dairy-based options
Cons	- Potential allergens or intolerances
	- Not suitable for those on a low-fat or vegan diet
	- May not be ideal for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies

Impact on Blood Sugar

Oatmeal prepared with water tends to have a slightly lower glycemic index compared to oatmeal prepared with milk.

Water does not contain any carbohydrates, which means it won't contribute to any increase in blood sugar levels. On the other hand, milk contains some natural sugars (lactose) that can lead to a slightly higher glycemic response when combined with oatmeal.

The glycemic impact of oatmeal can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of oats used (steel-cut, rolled, or instant oats), the cooking method, and the additions or toppings included.

Tips for achieving your desired oatmeal consistency

Adjusting Liquid Ratio

For a creamier and thicker oatmeal, use a smaller amount of liquid.

I've found that a 2:1 ratio of liquid to oats results in a creamier consistency.

Conversely, if you prefer a lighter and runnier oatmeal, add a bit more liquid.

Start with the recommended liquid-to-oats ratio and adjust it based on personal preference.

Blending your oatmeal

If you've never tried blending your oatmeal before, it is a technique that produces creamy results.

Simply add your uncooked oats to a blender to produce oat flour, then cook with water as you normally would with oatmeal to get a creamy final product.

processed oatmeal into flour — What is Blended Oatmeal?

Cooking Time:

The cooking time can vary depending on the type of oats used and the desired texture.

For instance, steel-cut oats typically require a longer cooking time than rolled oats.

If you prefer a chewier texture, cook the oats for a shorter time. For a smoother and softer consistency, extend the cooking time.

Stir frequently

Regularly stirring the oatmeal while it's cooking can help prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensure even cooking.

Stirring also helps distribute the liquid and ensures a more uniform texture.

Lid On or Off

Keeping the lid on the pot traps more steam, resulting in softer and creamier oatmeal.

If you prefer a drier and less creamy texture, cook the oatmeal with the lid partially or completely off.

Soaking Oats:

For a quicker cooking time and softer texture, consider soaking the oats in milk or water for a few minutes before cooking.

coffee soaked oats — Protein Coffee Overnight Oats w/Collagen Powder

This can be particularly helpful when using steel-cut oats, which tend to take longer to cook.

Heat Control

Higher heat will result in a faster cooking time but may also lead to a stickier consistency.

Lower heat allows for a slower and more controlled cooking process, which can yield a smoother texture.

Resting Time

After turning off the heat, let the oatmeal rest for a few minutes before serving.

During this resting time, the oatmeal will continue to absorb the liquid, and the texture may become more cohesive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use water and milk together to cook oatmeal?

Absolutely! The milk-water hybrid method is a great combination that also results in a creamy final texture.

Is oatmeal a good breakfast option for weight loss?

Yes, oatmeal is an excellent breakfast choice for weight loss due to its high fiber content and ability to keep you feeling full for longer.

What are some natural sweeteners I can use in dairy-free oatmeal?

You can sweeten your oatmeal with natural options like maple syrup, agave nectar, coconut sugar, or mashed bananas for added sweetness.

How can I make my oatmeal more filling and satisfying?

To make your oatmeal more filling, add protein-rich ingredients like nuts, seeds, or nut butter. You can also incorporate fiber-rich fruits and vegetables to increase satiety.

Are there any specific brands of non-dairy milk that you recommend for oatmeal?

There are numerous reputable brands of non-dairy milk available in the market. My favorite store-bought brands for non-dairy milk are Califia Farms, Oatly, and So Delicious.

So what?

With these tips, you now know how to create a delicious bowl of creamy oatmeal without adding dairy.

Whether you prefer oatmeal with milk or water depends on your personal taste and dietary requirements.

Whichever method you choose, oatmeal is a nutritious and satisfying breakfast choice that can be easily customized to suit your preferences.

If you love oatmeal, you'll love these next recipes.

Is Oatmeal Better With Milk or Water? Tips For The Best Oatmeal

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