Save Money by Making Your Own Healthy Instant Oatmeal Packets

To mimic the texture of instant oatmeal packets, you’ll want to grind some of the oats first. Place one cup of instant oats in a blender, food processor, or mini-chopper until it resembles a coarse powder.

Then combine the oat powder with the remaining two cups of instant oats in a bowl and stir to combine.

Portion the oats into bags or containers. I do 1/2-cup portions of oats in mine, but you can do smaller portions for young kids or those with smaller appetites. You can use zip-top baggies or opt for something reusable. Small plastic or glass containers, such as jelly jars, work well for this.

If you have dry toppings, add them in now. You can use a variety of things like dried fruit (such as raisins and dried cranberries), freeze-dried fruit (it works best if you chop it first), nuts or seeds (such as walnuts, slivered almonds, and ground flaxseed), spices and seasonings (such as cinnamon or brown sugar). You can also add a pinch of salt to each packet or container.

If you want to add toppings like fresh or frozen fruit, nut butter, honey, or maple syrup, don’t add those until you’re ready to cook your oatmeal.

You can customize these instant oatmeal packets however you like them! Use your packets within a few months for the best quality.

When you’re ready to cook your instant oatmeal packets, dump the contents into a deep bowl, add anything additional (such as fresh fruit or honey) plus 1/2 cup dairy or non-dairy milk, cover with a small plate, and microwave on HIGH for one minute. Stir and eat!

Questions about Instant Oatmeal Packets

What can you add to instant oatmeal packets?

Here are some combinations you can try:

• 1 teaspoon brown sugar + 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon + 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 tablespoon powdered peanut butter + 1/2 teaspoon cocoa power + 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries + 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts + 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 cup fresh blueberries + 1 tablespoon slivered almonds + 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter + 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips

Is instant oatmeal good for you?

Instant oatmeal–or “quick oats”–are just as nutritious as old-fashioned oats. The difference is that quick oats are cut into smaller pieces so they cook more quickly. Just like old-fashioned and steel-cut oats, quick oats are 100 percent whole grain and high in fiber. You can read more about the history of oats and their nutritional benefits here.

Is instant oatmeal gluten free?

Oats do not naturally contain gluten. But they’re often processed in the same facility as gluten-containing ingredients. So if you have celiac disease or are avoiding gluten for another reason, look for oats specifically labeled “gluten free”.

Can instant oatmeal lower cholesterol?

Yes! Oats contain a kind of fiber that can naturally help reduce your cholesterol levels. As it passes through, this kind of fiber actually binds to cholesterol-containing bile acids in the intestines and prevents them from being absorbed.

Why is instant oatmeal a good breakfast?

Besides being delicious and warming your insides on a cold day, instant oatmeal helps keep you fuller longer. That’s because it contains protein plus soluble fiber, which slows digestion.

More recipes using oats

• Peanut Butter Chocolate Oatmeal Cups
• Banana Oatmeal Cups
• Nut-Free Chocolate Chip Oat Bars
• Bread Machine Dinner Rolls With Oats
• No-Flour Peanut Butter Cookies