Description
Creamy, cinnamon-scented oats inspired by the flavors of traditional Mexican horchata. This easy make-ahead breakfast blends rice milk, vanilla, and warm spices with rolled oats and a touch of almond butter for richness. A swirl of almond butter in the mix adds an original twist and keeps the oats extra creamy while deepening the horchata flavor.
Equipment
- Medium bowl or 16 oz mason jar
- Spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup rice milk (or almond milk)
- 1/2 cup plain or vanilla yogurt (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves or allspice
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flax
- Optional: sliced banana or chopped dates for added sweetness
Instructions
- In a medium bowl or mason jar, combine oats, rice milk, yogurt, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cloves, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir thoroughly until the almond butter is fully blended and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the chopped almonds and optional chia seeds or fruit if using.
- Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Add a splash of milk if you’d like it looser.
- Serve chilled, or microwave for 30–45 seconds if you prefer warm oats.
- Top with more almonds, fresh fruit, or a dusting of cinnamon if desired.
Notes
Adding almond butter to the base—not as a topping—makes these oats stand out from the rest. It enriches the texture, softens the bite of the oats, and deepens the horchata flavor with a subtle nuttiness that traditional recipes miss. This trick also boosts protein and satiety, making it a better option for busy mornings.
*To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats.
*For a vegan version, use plant-based yogurt and ensure your almond butter has no added dairy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: ~325 kcal
- Sugar: ~10 g
- Sodium: ~120 mg
- Fat: ~14 g
- Saturated Fat: ~2 g
- Carbohydrates: ~40 g
- Fiber: ~8 g
- Protein: ~10 g
