Breakfast Ideas

What to Have Instead of Oats for Breakfast

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A bowl of go free corn flakes

Oats are a staple for many morning routines, but they're not the only option! This article explores delicious and convenient alternatives to oats, perfect for those seeking variety, managing dietary needs, or simply looking for a change. We'll dive into the range of Nestlé Cereals, creative breakfast recipes like smoothies and homemade cereal bars, and tips for boosting your breakfast with flavourful toppings. Plus, we'll share time-saving strategies for busy mornings, ensuring you can enjoy a tasty breakfast, even on the go.

Why People Love Oats (and Why You Might Want a Change)

Oats often make a familiar appearance at the breakfast table, thanks to their soft texture and neutral taste that works well with different foods. However, if you're in the mood for something with a bit more crunch, a burst of flavour, or simply looking to mix things up, there are plenty of other delicious ways to start your day.

Nestlé Cereals: Delicious Alternatives to Oats

If you're looking to add some variety to your breakfast routine or simply fancy something different from porridge or overnight oats, Nestlé Cereals offer a wide range of delicious and convenient options.

For those seeking gluten-free option, our Go Free® Breakfast Cereals offer an inclusive option. Enjoy  the subtly sweet and nutty flavour of Go Free® Gluten Free Honey Nut Corn Flakes, or the classic Go Free® Gluten Free Corn Flakes.

If fibre is a key consideration, Shredded Wheat® Original is an excellent choice for those looking for a high fibre breakfast cereal. Made from one single ingredient, 100% whole grain wheat, it provides a naturally delicious start to your day. Original Shreddies® are also a classic and much-loved option, packed with fibre and fortified with vitamins and minerals to help you get ready for the day ahead.

Whether you're enjoying them at breakfast or looking to mix things up, Nestlé Cereals offer plenty of delicious ways to diversify your diet.

Creative Breakfast Ideas: Beyond Oats

Who says skipping oats means skipping variety? With Nestlé Cereals, you can whip up fun, flavour-packed breakfasts that suit your lifestyle—whether you're easing into the day or grabbing and going.

Boosting Flavour for Your Oat-Alternative Breakfasts

Give your cereal bowl a glow-up with toppings that bring colour, crunch, and serious flavour:

  • Fresh fruit: Bananas, berries, apples, or mango add a juicy burst of natural sweetness.
  • Nuts and seeds: Add crunch with almonds, walnuts, chia, or pumpkin seeds.
  • Yoghurt or plant-based swaps: Great for layering and adding creaminess.
  • Nut butters: A spoonful adds a rich, velvety twist.
  • Dried fruit: Raisins, cranberries, chopped dates are a great chewy, sweet and delicious addition to your bowl.

Mix, match, and make it your own, whatever you’ve got in the kitchen can turn your morning bowl into something you can look forward to.

Top Tips for Busy Mornings

With a little prep and the right on-the-go options, breakfast doesn’t have to slow you down. From night-before hacks to grab-and-go favourites, here’s how to keep your mornings smooth—and your breakfast tasty:

 

  • Prepping the Night Before: A few minutes in the evening can set you up for a stress-free start. Pour your cereal into a container or bowl, chop fruit and store it in the fridge, blend your smoothie ingredients, or layer your cereal, yogurt, and fruit in a jar to create a breakfast parfait. You could even set out your bowl and spoon ready for the morning, this way, your breakfast is ready to roll when you are.

  • Grab-and-Go Breakfasts: For those mornings when time is tight, having a ready-to-go breakfast is essential. Consider these options:

  • Cereal & Dried Fruit Mix: Pack a tub with your favourite cereal and dried fruit to enjoy dry and why not take it to work and add milk or yogurt when you arrive.
  • Pre-Made Smoothie: Blend a smoothie (using one of our recipes mentioned above) the night before and store it in a travel bottle for a nutritious and easy-to-drink breakfast.
  • Cereal Bars: Our pre-packaged Nestlé cereal bars mentioned above are another option.
  • Yogurt Pot with Cereal Topping: Prepare a yogurt pot and pack a small Tupperware container of cereal to sprinkle on top just before eating.

Skipping oats doesn’t mean sacrificing variety, flavour, or convenience. With so many tasty alternatives, from multigrain cereals and fruity smoothie bowls to homemade and ready-to-eat cereal bars, it’s easy to shake up your routine and still enjoy a tasty start to the day.

Discover our cereals

Golden GRAHAMS Cereal 375g

Golden Grahams® Cereal

Box of Cheerios Multigrain cereal

Cheerios®

Box of Shreddies Original cereal

Shreddies®

Shredded_Wheat

Shredded Wheat®

KitKat Cereal Clean Pack Shot 1

KitKat® Cereal

Curiously Cinnamon Clean Pack 2023

Curiously Cinnamon®

Golden_Nuggets

Golden Nuggets®

Go Free Cornflakes

Go Free® Cereal

Lion packshot

Lion® Cereal

Nesquik chocolate cereal 2023 pack shot

Nesquik® Breakfast Cereal