Wake up to a delightful morning treat that combines comforting oatmeal with the bright, zesty flavor of candied orange slices. This dish balances creamy textures with sweet, tangy accents, making your breakfast both nourishing and indulgent.
The toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch, while dried cranberries provide bursts of natural sweetness, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will brighten any day.
- The candied oranges add a unique, vibrant sweetness that transforms traditional oatmeal.
- This recipe is wholesome and vegetarian-friendly, using simple, nutritious ingredients.
- Combining creamy oats with crunchy almonds and tart cranberries offers an exciting texture contrast.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: Use 1 cup for a hearty, chewy base rich in fiber and whole grains.
- Milk or non-dairy alternative: 2 cups to create a creamy, smooth oatmeal suitable for all diets.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon to enhance the natural flavors and balance sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 teaspoon adds a warm, aromatic depth to the oatmeal.
- Medium orange, thinly sliced: Fresh slices to candy, infusing bright citrus flavor and sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: 1/3 cup to gently candy the orange slices until syrupy and translucent.
- Water: 1/3 cup to dissolve sugar and create the perfect candy syrup for the oranges.
- Dried cranberries: 1/4 cup adds tart bursts of sweetness and chewy texture.
- Sliced almonds, toasted: 1/4 cup to provide a crunchy, nutty finish.
- Honey or maple syrup (optional): 2 teaspoons for extra natural sweetness if desired.
Instructions
- Prepare the Candied Orange Slices
In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Then add the thinly sliced orange pieces and let them cook gently for 10-12 minutes. This slow simmer allows the oranges to become translucent and soak up the syrup, concentrating their natural sweetness.
- Cook the Oatmeal Base
Next, in a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat and cook on low for 5-7 minutes until the oats are thick and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract at the end for fragrant, comforting flavor.
- Assemble the Breakfast Bowls
Divide the creamy oatmeal evenly into two bowls. Top each portion with the candied orange slices along with a spoonful of the leftover orange syrup for extra zest. Sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted sliced almonds on top to add a delightful tartness and crunch. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if a sweeter taste is preferred.
- Be careful not to over-simmer the orange slices, as they can become too soft and lose their vibrant texture.
- Use non-dairy milk and maple syrup to keep the dish completely vegan without sacrificing flavor.
- Toasting almonds enhances their nuttiness, so don’t skip this step for the best crunch and aroma.
Storage Tips
Store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep candied orange slices separate in syrup to maintain texture and gently reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this oatmeal warm alongside a cup of fresh orange juice or herbal tea for a balanced breakfast. Add a dollop of yogurt if desired, for extra creaminess and protein.
- For easier slicing, chill the orange before cutting to make thinner, even slices.
- Use steel-cut oats if you prefer a chewier texture but increase cooking time accordingly.
- Experiment with other nuts like pecans or walnuts for different flavor profiles.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used but will require cooking or sweetening as they are tart and firm raw.
- How do I make the candied oranges in advance?
Prepare candied orange slices up to 3 days ahead and store them in their syrup in the refrigerator.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you ensure to use certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.
- Can this be made sugar-free?
Replace granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, adjusting quantities to taste.
- What milk alternatives work best?
Almond, oat, or soy milk are great options that provide creaminess and complement the flavors well.
- How can I increase protein content?
Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder or a spoonful of nut butter into the oatmeal before cooking.
Candied Orange Oatmeal Cranberries
Equipment
- 1 saucepan small, for candying orange slices
- 1 saucepan medium, for cooking oatmeal
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups milk or non-dairy alternative
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium orange thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds toasted
- 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup optional
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water, then simmer over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced orange pieces and cook gently for 10-12 minutes until translucent and syrupy, turning occasionally. Remove and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine rolled oats, milk, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat while stirring.
- Reduce heat to low and cook oatmeal for 5-7 minutes until thick and creamy, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Divide the cooked oatmeal between two bowls.
- Top each bowl with candied orange slices, a spoonful of orange syrup, dried cranberries, and toasted almonds.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup to taste.
- Use non-dairy milk and maple syrup for a vegan version.
- Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 2 days.
