How to Make Cinnamon Roll Porridge with Cranberries

Did you know that nearly 65% of people skip breakfast at least once a week? That’s a huge missed opportunity—especially when breakfast can taste like a cinnamon roll in a bowl! So if your mornings have been rushed, repetitive, or uninspiring, we’ve got something cozy and quick that will instantly brighten your routine: Cinnamon Roll Porridge with Cranberries.

This creamy, spiced oatmeal tastes like your favorite pastry—without the hassle of baking or the sugar overload. In just 10 minutes, you can transform everyday ingredients into a nourishing breakfast that satisfies your sweet tooth and fuels your body.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Porridge with Cranberries

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 1 | Level: Easy

Ingredients

• • 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, oat, or soy)
  • 1/2 cup gluten-free quick oats
  • 1 banana, mashed (plus 1/4 banana, sliced for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon raw honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons almond butter

Instructions

Step 1: Heat and Combine

In your non-stick skillet, combine the non-dairy milk, quick oats, mashed banana, cardamom, and raw honey. Set the heat to medium-high. Stir occasionally using your silicone spatula to prevent sticking. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the oats are thick and creamy.

Step 2: Boost the Flavor

Remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer your warm porridge to a serving bowl. Add the dried cranberries and ground cinnamon. Stir everything together so the spices and fruit are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Top and Serve

Spoon almond butter right in the center and garnish with banana slices. Enjoy immediately for a warm treat, or refrigerate overnight and serve cold for a ready-to-go breakfast.

Tips, Variations, and Swaps

• Swap the Fruit. Try chopped apples, raisins, or dried cherries for a new twist.
• Add Protein. A spoonful of plant-based protein powder or hemp seeds blends in smoothly.
• Make It Nut-Free. Use sunflower seed butter or tahini in place of almond butter.
• Spice It Up. Add nutmeg or cloves for deeper spice.
• Make a Batch. Double or triple the recipe and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon Roll Porridge

This warm, cinnamon roll-inspired porridge is a nutrient powerhouse in a bowl. Oats bring the fiber and slow-burning energy to keep you full and fueled, while bananas naturally sweeten and thicken the mix without added sugar. Tart cranberries punch in with antioxidants, balancing the sweetness perfectly, and cinnamon does double duty with anti-inflammatory properties and blood sugar regulation. Add in cardamom for a digestion-friendly, warming spice and almond butter for a boost of healthy fats and plant-based protein that keeps you satisfied longer. Bonus? It’s completely vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free—so it fits right into your feel-good routine.

Make Your Own Cinnamon Roll Porridge Today!

So here’s the thing about this Cinnamon Roll Porridge—it’s not trying to be a five-star brunch centerpiece. It’s not fancy, it’s not complicated, and it’s not pretending to be anything it’s not. What it is, though, is warm, creamy, just-sweet-enough magic in a bowl. It’s your cozy robe, fuzzy slippers, and quiet morning all rolled into one comforting bite. And sure, you could swap in flax or hemp or drizzle it with a fancy maple glaze—but you don’t have to. Because this porridge? It already gets it right. It's simple, nostalgic, nutrient-packed comfort food that just feels good.

Other Kitchen Tools You Need for This Recipe

These tools from Zulay Kitchen will elevate your breakfast game and make prep a breeze:

• • Measuring Cups & Spoons – for perfect spice and sweetener ratios every time.
  • Rechargeable Milk Frother – froth your plant-based milk before pouring it for an extra-luxurious experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Porridge

Can I make this porridge ahead of time?

Absolutely! This porridge keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove. You can also enjoy it cold like overnight oats—especially refreshing in warmer months!

Can I make this with steel-cut oats or rolled oats?

You can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Steel-cut oats take about 20-25 minutes and need more liquid. Rolled oats will take 8-10 minutes. The texture will be heartier with either option, but still delicious. Quick oats are best when you need a fast breakfast without compromising creaminess.

How can I make this recipe 100% vegan?

Easy! Just swap the honey for maple syrup, agave, or date syrup. Everything else is already plant-based. Use your favorite non-dairy milk and you’re good to go. This porridge is a favorite among vegans because it's hearty, flavorful, and nutrient-rich.

What can I substitute for almond butter?

Any nut or seed butter will work. Try peanut butter, cashew butter, or tahini. For a nut-free version, sunflower seed butter is great. Each variation brings a slightly different taste, but the creamy texture and healthy fats remain.

Can I add protein powder to this porridge?

Yes, and it’s a great way to make this even more satisfying! Use an unflavored or vanilla plant-based protein powder. Add it during the cooking step with the oats and milk. You might need a bit more liquid to adjust for thickness.

Is this recipe good for kids?

Definitely! Kids love the banana and cinnamon flavor combo. It’s naturally sweet, soft in texture, and free of refined sugar. You can even portion it into jars for a fun grab-and-go breakfast or after-school snack. Just be mindful of nut allergies if sending to school.

What does cardamom taste like, and can I skip it?

Cardamom has a warm, slightly citrusy, floral flavor—it’s often found in chai and Scandinavian baking. It’s what gives this porridge that "bakery treat" vibe. If you don’t have it, you can leave it out or replace it with nutmeg or extra cinnamon, but it won’t have quite the same depth.