How to Make Creamy Porridge
There’s just something super cozy about a hot bowl of porridge on a chilly morning, which is why this is my go-to winter breakfast! It’s simple, creamy, and guaranteed to keep me full way past lunchtime. Forget watery oats or gluggy lumps – this is how to make creamy porridge the right way!
👩🍳 Why I Make My Porridge This Way
I’ve been making porridge this way for years. Soaking the oats beforehand makes them super creamy, so I usually soak them while I go off and have a shower. When you get back, your oats are plump and soft, ready to be turned into a creamy porridge. Cook them low and slow with milk until they’re rich, velvety and perfectly delicious. I top it with sliced banana, maple syrup and a handful of my crunchy candied nuts, but honestly, the toppings options are endless! My Apple Pie Porridge is (almost) famous for it’s dessert-like breakfast vibe, so head over there for an extra treaty breakfast, using the same porridge base.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Creamy Porridge
- Basic ingredients, big payoff
- No cream, no fuss – just your favourite milk and my method
- Easily customisable with fun flavours (Biscoff, anyone?)
- Feels like a warm hug in a bowl
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 2/3 cup traditional rolled oats (not microwave or instant oats)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (or to taste)
- 1½ cups milk (full cream, low fat or your favourite milk)
- Toppings
🍯 How to Make Creamy Porridge – Step-by-Step
In a small saucepan, stir oats, cinnamon and water together. Let them soak for 5-10 minutes (or overnight if you’re super organised).
Place over medium-low heat and stir constantly. Cook for about 5 minutes until thick and creamy.
Divide between two bowls. Top with sliced banana, a drizzle of maple syrup, and chopped candied nuts for crunch.
🍌 Easy Porridge Variations
Once you’ve nailed the base, try these flavour twists:
🍪 Biscoff Porridge
Stir 1 heaped tablespoon of Biscoff spread into the porridge just before serving. Top with crushed Biscoff biscuits and sliced banana.
🍫 Cacao Porridge
Add 1 tablespoon unsweetened cacao powder when cooking the oats. Sweeten with a splash of maple syrup and top with chopped dark chocolate or cacao nibs.
🍌 Banoffee Porridge
Swirl 1 tablespoon caramel sauce into the hot porridge and top with banana slices, crushed digestive biscuits and whipped cream (or Greek yoghurt if you’re being good).
💡 Expert Tip
Soaking the oats first (even for 5 minutes) helps soften the grains and creates that ultra-creamy texture. Don’t skip this step!
🧊 Storage Suggestions
- Fridge: Store leftover porridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.
- Make ahead: Double the batch and portion into jars for breakfast-on-the-go.
🍽️ How to Serve Porridge
Serve creamy porridge warm with your favourite toppings. I love adding:
- A spoonful of peanut butter
- Caramel apple or pear
❓FAQ
Can I use instant oats?
Technically yes, but traditional rolled oats give a creamier, less mushy result.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Absolutely. Almond, oat, or soy milk work well. Just avoid anything too watery.
Is it gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats if required.
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How To Make Creamy Porridge
Ingredients
Porridge
- ⅔ cup Oats Traditional cut, not microwave oats
- ¼ tsp Cinnamon or a combination of cinnamon and nutmeg or your favourite spice blend.
- 1½ cups MIlk I use low fat milk
Suggested Toppings
- 1 tsp Maple Syrup to taste
- 2 tbsp Candied Nuts, chopped https://applecakeannie.com/how-to-make-quick-and-easy-candied-nuts/
- 1 Banana sliced
Instructions
Porridge
- Place the oats in a small saucepan, mix in the spices, then add enough water to cover the oats. Set aside to soak for 5 minutes or so (you can soak them overnight, if you'd prefer)
- Add the milk, then place the saucepan over low-medium heat and stir gently but constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken (it will continue to thicken as it cools in the serving bowl). It should take around 5-8 minutes on the stove.
Toppings
- Once the porridge has thickened to your liking, pour into bowls and top with candied nuts, maple syrup and banana (or your favourite toppings).
Nutrition
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