Sweet Coconut Milk Oatmeal Recipe
Coconut oats is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make breakfast packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness. Whether you prefer eating a warm bowl of oats with almonds or an overnight version, coconut oats can be customized to your taste. You can add Indian ingredients like jaggery, cardamom, saffron, and coconut milk to give this oatmeal dish a more Indian feel. This dish is both filling and satisfying. Follow the process to make this tasty Sweet Coconut Oatmeal recipe step by step.

Ingredients List
- 1 cup rolled oats (use old-fashioned oats for the best texture)
- 2 cups unsweet coconut milk (or water for a lighter version)
- Pinch Nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder for flavor
- Lemon for Lemon Zest
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (for added fiber and omega-3s)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (cashews, or walnuts for crunch)
- ¼ cup chopped fruits (banana, mango, or berries for extra taste)
- 1 tablespoon coconut flakes (for extra coconut flavor)
- 1 teaspoon jaggery powder or coconut sugar (alternative to honey)
How to Make Sweet Coconut Oameal
1. In a medium-sized pot, pour 2 cups of unsweetened coconut milk and place it on the stove over medium heat. Coconut milk gives the oatmeal a creamy texture and a light tropical flavor.
2. Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder, a pinch of nutmeg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and some grated lemon zest. These spices add a warm, aromatic flavor that makes this a perfect healthy breakfast recipe.
3. Stir in 1 cup rolled oats gradually to prevent clumping. Mix in a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Let the oats simmer in coconut milk on medium-low heat for 5 minutes. If the mixture gets too thick, add more coconut milk or water to keep it smooth and creamy.

4. Top with almonds, honey, or maple syrup for sweetness. For extra flavor, sprinkle more cinnamon or vanilla. Serve warm and enjoy this vegan oatmeal with coconut milk, a nutritious and filling breakfast that’s both dairy-free and gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions for Coconut Milk Oats
- You can choose Full-Fat Coconut Milk as it gives a richer and creamier texture. Add sliced banana, mango, pineapple, or papaya for a tropical twist.
- Toast the Coconut: Lightly toasting the coconut before adding it enhances the flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness in oats: Start with less sweetener and add more if needed. Drizzle with maple syrup, honey, or jaggery syrup. Serve with fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a tart contrast.
- Customize Toppings: Add seeds, nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom and fresh fruits in oatmeal to suit your taste.
- Make It Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey if you prefer a vegan version.
- Batch Cooking for Meal Prep: You can make multiple servings in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, oats can be cooked directly in coconut milk. However, using a mix of water and coconut milk helps prevent it from becoming too thick.
Rolled oats are ideal, you can also use steel-cut oats for a chewier texture or instant oats for a quick version.
Usually coconut milk thickens as it cools. You can add a splash of water or extra milk before serving to loosen the texture.
You can store coconut milk oats in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir well before eating and add a little liquid if needed.

Recipe Card

Sweet Coconut Milk Oatmeal Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Mixing spoon or spatula
- 1 Bowl or jar with lid (for overnight oats)
- 1 Measuring cup and spoons
- 1 Grater (for lemon zest)
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats old-fashioned
- 2 cups unsweetened coconut milk or water for lighter version
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup optional
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract optional
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts almonds, cashews, or walnuts
- 1/4 cup chopped fruits banana, mango, or berries
- 1 tbsp coconut flakes
- 1 tsp jaggery powder or coconut sugar
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, pour 2 cups coconut milk.
- Add cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and lemon zest.
- Gradually stir in oats while mixing continuously.
- Add salt and optional sweetener.
- Cook oats on medium-low for 5–7 minutes until creamy. Adjust consistency with more coconut milk if needed.
- Top Coconut Milk Oatmeal with nuts, fruits, maple syrup, and toasted coconut if desired.
Notes
- Creamier Oats: Use full-fat coconut milk.
- Vegan Version: You can use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Customizable: Add your favorite fruits and toppings.
- Keep it Fresh: Stays good for up to 3 days in the fridge.