Baby oatmeal recipe: how to make oatmeal for babies

This baby oatmeal recipe is a fantastic, nutritious first food for babies, offering a gentle introduction to solid foods. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it one of the best oatmeal for babies. Whether you’re starting your baby on solids at 4-6 months or looking for a nutrient-rich meal option for older infants, this easy-to-make oatmeal is perfect.

One of the best parts about this baby porridge recipe is how customizable it is. You can prepare it plain for your little one’s first bites with just a few simple ingredients, or mix in their favorite fruits and vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. It’s incredibly versatile and can be blended to a smooth texture for younger babies or left thicker for older ones. You can even sprinkle in mild spices like cinnamon for extra taste.

If you’re looking for a best organic baby oatmeal, this recipe can be made with organic oats, ensuring your baby gets the highest quality nutrients. Additionally, it’s meal prep-friendly, meaning you can easily make a large batch, store it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat as needed. The oats thicken as they cool, so you can adjust the consistency by adding breast milk, formula, or water before serving, keeping it creamy and easy for your baby to eat.

This baby oatmeal recipe is not only quick and easy to make in under 10 minutes but also a great option for busy parents looking to provide a healthy, homemade meal. Plus, it’s perfect for batch cooking—store the leftovers for future meals without hassle, making it a fantastic addition to your baby’s diet.

In this Easy Baby Oatmeal Recipe we’re covering 

Why this is the best organic baby oatmeal recipe 

Here are several reasons why this homemade baby oatmeal recipe is considered the best oatmeal for babies:

1. Nutrient-Dense

This oatmeal babies recipe is made with old-fashioned oats, which are packed with essential nutrients. They provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients are critical for a baby’s growth, development, and overall health. Opt for organic oats and organic apples to make this a healthy meal without artificial ingredients or heavy metals.

2. Easy to Digest

Oatmeal is a gentle food that is easy on a baby’s developing digestive system. When cooked properly, oats become soft and creamy, making them easy for babies to chew and swallow. This makes healthy baby oatmeal one of the great options for babies. Whether you add a little fruit or berries for safe early allergen introduction or serve it as is, this baby oatmeal can be adapted into any flavored cereal recipes you want.

3. High in Fiber

Oats are rich in soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which aids digestion and helps maintain regular bowel movements. This can be particularly beneficial in preventing constipation in babies. 

4. Customizable Flavor

This oatmeal recipe can be easily customized with various purees, fruits, and spices, allowing parents to introduce a wide range of flavors and nutrients. This variety helps in developing a baby’s palate and encourages a love for different foods. You can add fruits or berries to the homemade oatmeal cereal a little bit at a time to get your little one used to eating different things.

5. Supports Healthy Weight

The fiber content in oats can help keep babies feeling full for longer, which can prevent overeating and support healthy weight management as they grow.

6. Energy Source

Oatmeal is a complex carbohydrate, providing a steady release of energy that is essential for active babies. It fuels their daily activities and growth spurts.

More reasons why this is the best oatmeal recipe for babies

7. Versatile Preparation

This oatmeal can be prepared in various ways, such as on the stovetop or in the microwave, making it a convenient option for busy parents. Additionally, it can be made in batches and stored for quick, easy meals throughout the week. It cuts down on delivery time. Now you can quickly make a batch of the best baby cereals and have something to give to your hungry babies in less than 10 minutes.

8. Potential for Allergens

Unlike some grains or cereals, oats are gluten-free (if labeled as such), making them suitable for babies with gluten sensitivity. This makes them a safe first grain option for many families. It also cuts down on the risk of childhood food allergies and your baby getting severe eczema.

9. Promotes Heart Health

The soluble fiber in oats can help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health, setting a strong foundation for lifelong healthy eating habits. You can feed only baby cereal and mix in a bit of formula on a daily basis.

Overall, this oatmeal recipe stands out as the best choice for babies due to its nutritional benefits, ease of digestion, versatility, and the ability to customize flavors. It provides essential nutrients and supports healthy growth, making it a wholesome and delightful first food for little ones.

Best oatmeal for babies 

Are you searching for a creamy and smooth oat cereal for your baby that doesn’t come from a box? Look no further—I’ve got the perfect solution for you! You don’t need store-bought baby oatmeal to feed your baby healthy food. 

Oatmeal cereal was the go-to puree that my mom and grandmother prepared for babies, and it’s a recipe that has stood the test of time! Even today, kids who grew up on this oatmeal continue to adore it. During her 30 years as a nurse while raising her children, my grandmother made countless batches of this beloved oatmeal. It’s one of the easiest oatmeal recipes to make!

To start, we simmer some old-fashioned oats in a bit of water until they become soft and tender. I highly recommend adding a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor, but feel free to customize it to your liking. The secret to making this oatmeal suitable for babies is to keep it on the wetter side since you’ll be pureeing it; the oats will thicken up during blending. If your cereal ends up too thick, don’t worry—you can simply add a little more water to achieve the desired consistency.

Additionally, I’ve included a quick hack to prepare this recipe in the microwave for added convenience.

Baby Oatmeal Cereal Recipe ingredients 

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients in this easy baby oatmeal recipe and the key nutrients they contribute:

1. Oats (Old-Fashioned Oats)

– Nutrients: 

  – Fiber: Helps with digestion and prevents constipation.

  – Iron: Essential for healthy blood and energy levels.

  – B Vitamins (especially B1, B5, and folate): Important for energy metabolism and brain development.

  – Magnesium: Supports muscle and nerve function, as well as bone health.

  – Protein: Provides essential amino acids needed for growth and development.

2. Water (or Breast Milk/Formula)

– Nutrients: 

  – Hydration: Water is crucial for maintaining hydration, especially when introducing solid foods.

  – Additional Nutrients: Using breast milk or formula adds fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals that are important for a baby’s growth.

3. Chia Seeds (Optional)

– Nutrients: 

  – Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Beneficial for brain development and function.

  – Fiber: Aids digestion and helps keep baby feeling full.

  – Calcium: Supports bone health.

  – Antioxidants: Help protect cells from damage.

4. Fruit or Vegetable Purees (if added)

– Examples: Apples, bananas, sweet potatoes, or spinach.

– Nutrients: 

  – Vitamins: Many fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which are vital for immune function, skin health, and vision.

  – Minerals: Various fruits and vegetables provide potassium, magnesium, and iron.

  – Fiber: Additional fiber to support digestive health.

5. Spices (if added)

– Examples: Cinnamon or vanilla.

– Nutrients: 

  – Antioxidants: Spices like cinnamon contain antioxidants that can contribute to overall health.

  – Flavor Enhancement: While spices do not contribute significant nutrients, they enhance flavor and may help develop a baby’s palate.

This baby oatmeal recipe is a well-rounded meal that provides a variety of essential nutrients crucial for a baby’s growth and development. The combination of oats, water (or milk), optional chia seeds, and fruit or vegetable purees ensures that the meal is not only nutritious but also flavorful and satisfying.

Baby oatmeal recipe tips and tricks 

Time-Saving Mom Hack

To streamline your meal prep, consider making a double batch of oatmeal cereal. After cooking, divide the oatmeal into small portions and freeze them. This way, you’ll always have a convenient stash of oatmeal ready for your baby whenever you need it. Just thaw a portion in the fridge overnight or warm it up in the microwave for a quick and nutritious meal!

Enhance the Flavor

To elevate the taste of your baby oatmeal, experiment with various flavor additions. Here’s a few ideas for adding extra flavor to the baby oatmeal recipes during the cooking process:

    Shredded Apples and Cinnamon: After blending the oats, mix in some finely shredded apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a naturally sweet and aromatic twist to the baby oat cereal.

    Mashed Fruits: For a burst of flavor and nutrients, mash in some blueberries and bananas while the oats are simmering. This not only adds deliciousness but also provides additional vitamins and minerals.

    Frozen Peaches and Nutmeg: Incorporate frozen peach slices and a pinch of nutmeg into the simmering oats before blending. This combination creates a delightful and comforting flavor profile that babies love.

HOW TO MAKE BABY OATMEAL

You can make this easy oatmeal for babies with any type of oats. Here’s a quick guide for how to make homemade babies food with different types of oats.

OLD-FASHIONED OATS — how to make oatmeal for babies with old fashioned oats:

1.     Boil: Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2.     Add Oats: Stir in 1 cup of old-fashioned oats along with a pinch of chia seeds, some shredded apples, and any spices you’d like to include.
3.     Cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the oats cook for about 5 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed and the oats are soft. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4.     Blend: Transfer the oats to a blender or food processor and puree for 1-2 minutes. If necessary, add water in 1/4 cup increments until the mixture is completely smooth.
5.     Serve: Once blended to your desired consistency, serve the oatmeal warm.

STEEL-CUT OATS — how to make baby oatmeal with steel cut oats:

1.     Boil: Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
2.     Add Oats: Add in 1 cup of steel-cut oats along with a pinch of chia seeds and any extra fruits or spices you prefer.
3.     Cook: Lower the heat to medium-low and let the oats simmer for 25-30 minutes until the water has evaporated and the oats are soft. Let cool slightly.
4.     Blend: Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and puree for 1-2 minutes, adding water in 1/4 cup increments until smooth.
5.     Serve: Serve the steel-cut oatmeal warm and enjoy.

INSTANT OATS — how to make instant oatmeal for babies:

1.     Boil: Start by boiling 1 cup of water in a saucepan.
2.     Add Oats: Stir in 1/2 cup of instant oats along with a pinch of chia seeds and any spices you wish to add.
3.     Cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the oats for 1-2 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the oats are soft. Allow to cool slightly.
4.     Blend: Pour the oats into a blender or food processor and puree for 1-2 minutes, adding water as needed until completely smooth.
5.     Serve: Serve the instant oats warm.

OAT POWDER

1.     Grind Oats: Place 1 cup of old-fashioned oats in a coffee grinder or blender. Grind them for 1-2 minutes until they become a fine oat powder.
2.     Add Hot Water: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine about 1 tablespoon of oat powder with 1-2 tablespoons of hot or boiling water, or baby formula. Stir the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency. Let it sit until it cools to a safe temperature for your baby to eat.

Baby Oatmeal recipe 

This Baby Oatmeal recipe is a wholesome and easy-to-make meal perfect for little ones. Made with old-fashioned oats and optional chia seeds for an added nutritional boost, it’s creamy, versatile, and customizable with spices like cinnamon. You can prepare it in batches, store it in the fridge or freezer, and quickly reheat it for a nourishing meal. It’s a simple, healthy choice for growing babies!

This Baby porridge recipe is quick and easy to prepare, using wholesome, nutrient-packed ingredients in under 10 minutes. It’s ideal for your baby’s first solid food or can be mixed into their favorite fruit or vegetable puree. Perfect for babies 4-6 months and older.

Best Organic Baby Oatmeal ingredients:

• 2 cups water (or 1 cup water + 1 cup breast milk or milk formula): 480 ml (or 240 ml water + 240 ml breast milk or formula)
• 1 cup old fashioned oats: 90 g
• 1/2 tsp chia seeds (optional): 2 g

How to make the best oatmeal for babies 

How to make Creamy Baby Oatmeal recipe on the stovetop:

1.     Boil: In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil.
2.     Add Oats: Stir in 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, chia seeds (if using), and any desired spices.
3.     Cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the oats for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid has been absorbed and the oats have softened. Allow to cool slightly.
4.     Blend: Pour the cooked oats into a blender or food processor. Blend for 1-2 minutes, adding water in 1/4 cup increments as needed to reach a smooth consistency. I found that adding 1/2 cup of water worked best for me. Aim for a thinner consistency since the oats will thicken further as they cool. Adjust with more water, breast milk, or formula as necessary.
5.     Serve: Serve immediately to your baby, or freeze for future use.

Microwave baby oatmeal recipe:

Here’s how you can make baby oatmeal in the microwave:

1.     Combine Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, 2 cups of water (or 1 cup water + 1 cup breast milk/formula), and 1/2 tsp chia seeds (optional).
2.     Microwave: Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as microwaves vary in power, and you don’t want it to overflow.
3.     Stir & Cook Again: Stir the oatmeal after the initial cooking time, then microwave for another 1-2 minutes, or until the oats are soft and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4.     Let It Cool: Allow the oatmeal to cool slightly before serving or blending.
5.     Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, transfer the oatmeal to a blender or food processor and puree for 1-2 minutes. Add water, breast milk, or formula in small increments (1/4 cup at a time) until it reaches the desired consistency.
6.     Serve: Serve immediately, or freeze for later meals.

This method is quick and convenient, making it perfect for a fast, homemade baby meal!

Baby porridge recipe variations 

4 Tasty Baby Oatmeal Combinations

    1.    Apples + Cinnamon: Stir in a few generous spoonfuls of grated apple along with a nice pinch of cinnamon just before serving. For toddlers or older kids, you can add a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of brown sugar for extra sweetness.

    2.    Spinach + Pineapple: Cook the oats with a handful of frozen pineapple chunks. After cooking, transfer to a blender and add a handful of spinach, then pulse or puree until the spinach is fully mixed in.

    3.    Blueberries, Cinnamon, and Vanilla: While cooking the oats, mix in a handful of frozen blueberries, a pinch of cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract. You can serve the oats whole or blend them for a smoother consistency for your baby.

    4.    Banana + Peanut Butter: As the oats cook, add slices of a very ripe banana (look for plenty of brown spots). Mash the banana into the oats while they cook. Once done, spoon the mixture into a bowl and swirl in some peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter of your choice) right before serving. You can serve this as is or blend it for younger babies.

Health benefits of oatmeal cereal for Babies 

Here are some health benefits of this oatmeal recipe for babies:

1. Rich in Nutrients

Oatmeal is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It contains B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc, which are important for a baby’s growth and development.

2. High in Fiber

Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which can aid digestion and help maintain healthy bowel movements. This is beneficial for babies as it can help prevent constipation.

3. Supports Heart Health

The soluble fiber in oats can help reduce cholesterol levels, which is beneficial even for infants. Starting them on heart-healthy foods early sets a foundation for a balanced diet.

4. Promotes Healthy Weight

Oatmeal can keep babies feeling fuller for longer due to its fiber content, which may help prevent overeating. This helps establish healthy eating habits from a young age.

5. Easy to Digest

Oatmeal is gentle on the stomach and can be easily digested, making it a suitable option for babies transitioning to solid foods. Cooking the oats softens them, ensuring they are easy for babies to chew and swallow.

6. Customizable Flavor Profiles

This oatmeal recipe can be easily customized with various fruits, vegetables, and spices, allowing parents to introduce a variety of flavors and nutrients. This variety can help develop a baby’s palate and encourage acceptance of different foods.

Even more health benefits of oatmeal

7. Gluten-Free Option

If using certified gluten-free oats, this oatmeal recipe can be a great option for babies with gluten sensitivity, providing a nutritious grain alternative that’s safe for them to consume.

8. Energy Source

Oats are a complex carbohydrate, providing a steady source of energy for active babies. This helps fuel their growth and exploration as they learn to crawl, walk, and engage with their environment.

Incorporating this oatmeal recipe into a baby’s diet offers a range of health benefits that support their overall growth and development.

5 ways to flavor baby oatmeal 

Here are five delicious ways to flavor baby oatmeal while keeping it nutritious and appealing:

1. Fruit Purees

Options: Apples, pears, bananas, peaches, or berries  

How to Use: Blend fresh or cooked fruits into a smooth puree and mix it into the oatmeal. You can also use store-bought fruit purees if you prefer convenience. This adds natural sweetness and essential vitamins.

2. Vegetable Purees

Options: Sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, or pumpkin  

How to Use: Steam and blend the vegetables into a puree, then stir them into the oatmeal. This not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional content with added fiber and vitamins.

3. Spices

Options: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract  

How to Use: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and sweetness without any added sugar. If using vanilla extract, a drop or two can give a lovely aroma and flavor. These spices are safe and healthy for babies over six months.

4. Nut Butters

Options: Almond butter or peanut butter (ensure no allergies)  

How to Use: Stir in a small spoonful of smooth nut butter to add creaminess and healthy fats. Make sure the nut butter is smooth and free from added sugars or salt. This adds flavor and can help keep your baby fuller for longer.

5. Yogurt Swirl

Options: Plain full-fat yogurt or Greek yogurt  

How to Use: Stir in a dollop of yogurt after cooking the oatmeal to add creaminess and a slight tang. This can also increase protein and probiotics, promoting good digestion. Be sure to use plain yogurt without added sugars.

These flavoring ideas will make baby oatmeal exciting and delicious while ensuring it remains nutritious!

How To Serve Oatmeal For Baby-Led Weaning

Oatmeal can be a challenging food for babies to grasp and feed themselves (and yes, it can get messy!). A great way to present oats as a finger food is to spoon out some cooked oats into strips or small round shapes on a plate and allow them to cool on the counter or in the fridge. Once cooled, the oats will firm up enough for your baby to pick them up easily. While some mess is inevitable, this method will help minimize it and make self-feeding more manageable for your little one. Typically, babies are ready to start baby-led weaning around 6 months of age.

Baby porridge Meal prep and storage 

Here’s a detailed guide for baby porridge meal prep and storage for this recipe:

Meal Prep for Baby Porridge:

1. Batch Cooking: You can easily double or triple this baby oatmeal recipe to make enough for several days. This is perfect for busy parents who want to ensure their baby has a nutritious meal ready at any time.

2. Customizing for Variety: Prepare a plain batch of oatmeal, then portion it out. You can mix in different fruit or vegetable purees like apples, pears, carrots, or sweet potatoes as you go, offering variety for your baby’s meals throughout the week. This makes meal prep even more efficient and reduces prep time later.

3. Portioning: After cooking, allow the porridge to cool slightly, then divide it into small portions. You can use baby food storage containers or silicone ice cube trays to create perfectly sized servings. This way, you can easily thaw just the right amount when needed.

Storage Instructions:

– In the Fridge:  

  Store prepared baby porridge in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve mixed in fresh fruit or vegetable purees, it’s best to consume it within 48 hours to maintain freshness.

– In the Freezer:  

  For longer storage, freeze the oatmeal in small, individual portions for up to 3 months. Silicone ice cube trays or freezer-safe baby food containers work well for this. Just make sure to freeze in a sealed container. Once frozen, transfer the cubes into a freezer bag to save space. Label with the date so you can keep track of when it was made.

Reheating Baby Porridge:

1. Thawing:  

   If frozen, transfer the portion you need to the fridge the night before, or if you’re in a rush, defrost it in the microwave or by placing the container in warm water.

2. Reheating:  

   Reheat on the stovetop or microwave. Warm the porridge gently, stirring occasionally. Add water, breast milk, or formula as needed to thin the oatmeal, as it will thicken while cooling. Adjust the consistency to make it creamy again, ensuring it’s easy for your baby to eat.

3. Serving:  

   After reheating, test the temperature to ensure it’s safe for your baby. You can add in fresh fruit or vegetable purees before serving to change up the flavor.

By prepping in advance and using proper storage techniques, this **baby oatmeal recipe** becomes an incredibly convenient and healthy option for feeding your baby throughout the week!

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Baby oatmeal recipe FAQs

Baby oatmeal add-ins and storage FAQs

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