Breakfast Ideas # What to Have Instead of Oats for Breakfast Published: 12/08/2026 AuthorBy Nestlé Cereals Reading time: 5 min. Share it with your friends ![A bowl of go free corn flakes](/uk/sites/g/files/qirczx836/files/styles/1_1_768px_width/public/2022-08/A%20bowl%20of%20go%20free%20corn%20.jpeg.webp?h=dba1ec89&itok=9876cPwR) 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](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/brands/go-free) 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](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/brands/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®](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/brands/shreddies/original) 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. ![Mango Smoothie and Shredded Wheat topping](/uk/sites/g/files/qirczx836/files/styles/1_1_768px_width/public/2023-03/Mango%20smoothie%20.jpg.webp?itok=GsefC5oh) ### Smoothies & Smoothie Bowls with Cereals - **Vegan Berry Smoothie:** Ready in less than 6 minutes, this [Vegan Berry Smoothie Recipe](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/cereal-recipes/smoothies/vegan-berry) blends Shreddies® with the natural flavours of banana, juicy berries, maple syrup and a splash of plant-based milk. - **Coconut & Mango Smoothie:** Creamy tasting and fruity, this [Coconut & Mango Smoothie Recipe](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/cereal-recipes/smoothies/coconut-mango) blends juicy mango, ripe banana, and Shredded Wheat® Original for a deliciously different twist. With coconut water, a splash of vanilla, and flaxseed mixed in, it’s crisp, refreshing, and ready in minutes! - **Green Breakfast Smoothie:** Refreshing and tasty, this [Green Breakfast Smoothie Recipe](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/cereal-recipes/smoothies/green-breakfast) brings together mango, kiwi, avocado, and spinach for a naturally sweet and creamy textured mix. Add in almond milk alternative, a squeeze of lime, and a handful of [Shredded Wheat® Bitesize](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/brands/shredded-wheat/bitesize), and you’ve got a green way to brighten your day! ![Nesquik Cereal Breakfast Bar](/uk/sites/g/files/qirczx836/files/styles/1_1_768px_width/public/2025-09/Nesquik%20Cereal%20Breakfast%20Bar_0.png.webp?itok=RGAh21Ys) ### Ready-to-Eat Cereal Bars When mornings get busy, having convenient and delicious options is key. Our ready-to-eat breakfast bars are packed with flavour, made with whole grain, and are good to go when you are! Enjoy alongside a piece of fruit and a glass of water! - [Lion® Breakfast Cereal Bars](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/brands/lion-cereal/bar) - [Nesquik® Breakfast Cereal Bars](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/brands/nesquik-cereal/bar) - [Curiously Cinnamon® Breakfast Cereal Bars](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/brands/curiously-cinnamon/cereal-bar) ![Avocado and eggs on toast](/uk/sites/g/files/qirczx836/files/styles/1_1_768px_width/public/2023-04/Avocado%20toast.jpg.webp?itok=wFiMbM-4) ### Other Cereal-Based Breakfasts Looking for a breakfast that's packed with flavour and satisfying crunch? These cereal-based breakfasts will bring plenty of colour and texture to your mornings: - **Cranola:** for a unique twist on granola, try our [Caribbean Crunch Cranola recipe](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/cereal-recipes/on-the-go/caribbean-crunch) made with Curiously Cinnamon® as a delicious treat. This unique blend combines crunchy banana chips, peanuts, raisins, coconut flakes, and even popcorn. A touch of cinnamon and honey adds a sweet and spiced flavour. Enjoy it as a weekend breakfast treat or tasty snack to share. - **Cereal Rainbow Jars:** this colourful [Shreddies® Cereal Rainbow Jars recipe](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/cereal-recipes/balanced/rainbow-jars) layers Greek-style yogurt with juicy blueberries, mango, strawberries, kiwi, and sweet tangerines. Topped with a crunchy mix of Multigrain Cheerios® and Original Shreddies®, plus a drizzle of honey if you like, it’s a vibrant and refreshing way to brighten up your breakfast. - **Gluten-Free Avocado Toast Recipe:** crunchy, creamy and full of flavour, this [Gluten Free Avocado Toast recipe](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/cereal-recipes/gluten-free/avocado-toast) layers smashed avocado with Thai basil, red onion, and a splash of balsamic vinegar on slices of toasted gluten-free bread. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Go Free® Rice Pops for a light, crispy crunch, it’s a fresh twist on a savoury breakfast staple. ## 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. ## Articles you may like [![Mum and daughter eating an apple on a picnic](/uk/sites/g/files/qirczx836/files/styles/1_1_450px_width/public/2025-09/Picnic%20family_0.jpg.webp?itok=9-Oj5_P4)](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/blog/breakfast-ideas/picnic-food-ideas) Breakfast Ideas ### [Quick and Easy Picnic Food Ideas](/uk/blog/breakfast-ideas/picnic-food-ideas) [View more](/uk/blog/breakfast-ideas/picnic-food-ideas "View more - Quick and Easy Picnic Food Ideas") [![Bowls of Cheerios on the table with a pair of sunglasses, fruit and a star chart](/uk/sites/g/files/qirczx836/files/styles/1_1_450px_width/public/2025-09/Cheerios%20summer%20breakfast%20ideas-min_0.jpg.webp?itok=w0wqW7fC)](https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/blog/breakfast-ideas/summer-breakfast-ideas) Breakfast Ideas ### [Quick and Simple Summer Breakfast Ideas](/uk/blog/breakfast-ideas/summer-breakfast-ideas) [View more](/uk/blog/breakfast-ideas/summer-breakfast-ideas "View more - 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