Looking for a hearty, filling breakfast option? My Date Nut Oatmeal is a simple and satisfying choice. The natural sweetness of dates and the richness of pecans pair perfectly with the creamy oatmeal. Give it a try and start your day off right.
Oatmeal has long been a classic morning go-to, but sometimes it deserves a little upgrade. If you want to take your oatmeal game up a notch, I’m here to help!
My Date Nut Oatmeal is a warm, comforting hug for your taste buds, blending the sweetness of dates, the crunch of pecans, and the creaminess of cooked oats. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and will have you looking forward to morning.
Whether you’re an oatmeal connoisseur or just learning to cook breakfast on your own, I’ve got your back. I’ll walk you through the process, from choosing the right oats to cooking them and even how to store leftovers (or “planned overs”!) for those busy mornings when time is short.
Recipe Snapshot
Cuisine: American
Cooking Method: Stovetop
Total Time: 12 Minutes
Servings: 4
Primary Ingredient(s): Rolled oats, pecans, dates
Skill Level: Easy
What You’ll Like About This Recipe
- It’s ready in just 15 minutes, so you can have a hot breakfast even on busy mornings.
- The dates have their own sweetness, so you can add less sugar to your bowl.
- You can make it with your favorite nuts and spices to give it your own signature touch.
- It can be made ahead and stored for no-stress breakfast time.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING …
“This is precisely the recipe that I wanted! A sugar-optional hot morning oatmeal. The dates and pecans add just the right amount of sweetness during cooking”
— D. F.
Ingredient Notes
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- Rolled Oats — I recommend using either old-fashioned rolled oats, quick oats, or steel-cut oatmeal. Regardless of which one you choose, be sure to check the cooking time as I’ve written this recipe with the cooking time for old-fashioned rolled oats. I’d also advise you to steer clear of instant oats as they will result in a less satisfying consistency.
- Pecans — Chopped pecans add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to the oatmeal.
- Dates — Choose either Medjool dates (in the fresh produce section at your grocery) or dried dates (found with the dried fruit and usually more budget-friendly). Make sure the pits are removed and the dates chopped into small pieces before adding them to the oatmeal.
- Salt (Optional) — While salt is optional, a small pinch will enhance the overall flavor.
- Brown Sugar or Turbinado Sugar: Either is a perfect finishing touch. They add a hint of caramel-like sweetness that complements the natural sugars in the dates.
- Milk or Half and Half — For a creamy touch, add a splash of milk, half and half or cream.
The complete ingredient list with detailed measurements is included in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
What You Need to Know About Oats
As anyone who’s ever been to the grocery store to purchase oatmeal knows, there are loads of different choices available in the oatmeal section of the cereal aisle. How do you know which to buy? I’m here to explain!
Regardless of which type of oats you purchase, they are all a naturally gluten-free whole grain. However, you should always check the label to make sure there’s nothing added that could be a problem.
- Rolled (or Old Fashioned) Oats — My choice for the most versatile type of oats. Rolled, also called “old fashioned” oats, are probably the most popular type. These are oats that have been steamed and flattened between rollers (thus, the name “rolled”). They are often used for morning oatmeal but also in baking cookies and making toppings for fruit crumbles. Depending on the brand, they typically take 5 to 10 minutes to cook. However, some brands require 10 to 20 minutes of cooking time so be sure to check the package directions.
- Quick Oats — Quick oats are made the same way as rolled oats but are rolled to be quite a bit flatter, and they cook faster. Cooking time is from 1 to 5 minutes.
- Steel Cut Oats — Also known as “Irish Oats,” are not steamed nor rolled. They’re simply cut into small pieces (similar to the size of a grain of rice), and they require a good bit more time to cook, 25 to 30 minutes total. They are my favorite for a bowl of oatmeal when I have plenty of time on weekend mornings. They have a very chewy, nutty flavor.
- Instant Oats — Instant oats have been cooked and dehydrated. They typically come in single-serve packets that can be reconstituted with water and microwaved in about a minute. They have a very mushy texture, and I simply don’t recommend them for much of anything.
How to Make Date Nut Oatmeal
- Start by bringing the water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Stir in the oats, pecans, and dates.
- Reduce the heat to medium.
- Cover, and cook for about 5 minutes stirring once or twice.
- Remove the oats from the heat and let them stand for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar (or turbinado sugar if you like), add a splash of milk or cream.
- Sprinkle over a few additional dates and pecans as a pretty garnish.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If your oatmeal turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit more water or milk.
- If your oatmeal is too thin, continue cooking it uncovered for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally.
- To prevent oatmeal from sticking to the pot during cooking, make sure to stir it occasionally and keep the heat at a low simmer.
Menu Options
- Simple Weekday Breakfast — Date Nut Oatmeal, orange juice, and coffee.
- Leisurely Weekend Breakfast — Date Nut Oatmeal, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a fresh fruit platter.
- Kids’ Favorite Breakfast — Mini Date Nut Oatmeal bowls with a side of apple slices and hot chocolate.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Experiment with different nuts to vary the flavors and textures. Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios can be good alternatives.
- While old-fashioned rolled oats are recommended for this recipe, you can use steel-cut oats or quick oats if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of the cooking time and adjust accordingly.
- Get creative with additional fruit toppings. Sliced bananas, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of berry compote can add loads of flavor.
- Consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom.
- If you’d like to increase the protein content, stir in some Greek yogurt (honey-vanilla is really good!) or a scoop of your favorite protein powder after cooking.
How to Store
I often make enough oatmeal for two or three mornings and reheat it as needed. To store oatmeal, allow it to cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. This method is perfect for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying breakfast.
Surprisingly, oatmeal can be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container or measure individual portions into freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for one to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
When reheating oatmeal, add a little milk or water to loosen the consistency, as it will thicken while stored. Warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring between each one until warmed through.
Questions About Date Nut Oatmeal
Oats themselves are naturally gluten-free. However, oatmeal may be processed in a facility that handles other grains where there is the possibility of some cross-over. Several companies, including Bobs Red Mill and Quaker, now offer certified gluten-free oatmeal products.
While this recipe is not specifically for overnight oats, you can adapt it by mixing the ingredients and letting them sit in the refrigerator overnight for a no-cook option.
I prefer to cook oatmeal in water. You’d think that cooking in milk would produce a creamier oatmeal texture, but it more often creates a sticky, thick, gummy texture.
Of course! You can add in any type of nuts you have on hand. I’d go for walnuts over almonds, but whatever you prefer is fine.
Have a question or thought to share?
If you have a question about the recipe or if you’ve made it and want to share how it turned out, I would truly enjoy hearing from you. Just scroll down to leave a comment or add your star rating.
Thank you for stopping by. It means a lot to have you here.
Recipe
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Date Nut Oatmeal
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups water
- ½ teaspoon salt optional
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ⅔ cup chopped pecans
- ⅔ cup chopped dates
Instructions
- Bring the water and salt to a boil.
- Stir in the oats, pecans and dates.
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes, stirring once or twice.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve with a sprinkle of brown sugar or turbinado sugar and a splash of milk or half and half.
- Sprinkle over additional dates and pecans if desired.
Notes
- To store leftovers, cool completely and then place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- May be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container or measure individual portions into freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for one to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- When reheating, add a little milk or water if needed to loosen the consistency. Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring between each one until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information is calculated by software based on the ingredients in each recipe. It is an estimate only and is provided for informational purposes. You should consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian if precise nutrition calculations are needed for health reasons.
— This post was originally published on February 7, 2012. It has been updated with new photos and additional information.
I’m Lana Stuart, an award-winning cookbook author, food blogger, and lifelong cook raised deep in Southwest Georgia. I started Lana’s Cooking in 2009 to share the tried-and-true recipes I grew up with. Around here, the food is full of flavor, the traditions run deep, and there’s always room at the table.
I don’t generally eat dates, which one would you recomend?
If you’re asking for a brand recommendation, I usually purchase Sunsweet chopped dates.
So yummy! I’m 39 weeks pregnant and was looking for date recipes on the internet. (They say dates encourage labor!) I cooked the oatmeal with half milk half water as I like it a bit creamy. I added a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon to my bowl. Thank you for sharing! :)
I had no idea that dates encourage labor! How interesting. And I’m glad you enjoyed the oatmeal :-)
This is precisely the recipe that I wanted! A sugar-optional hot morning oatmeal. The dates and pecans add just the right amount of sweetness during cooking
Yes, you hardly need any sweetener with the dates! Glad you like the recipe.
Looks like a healthy way to start the day!! Can’t wait to try this out – I bet it is filling as well – love all the ingredients so together they ought be a real winner!
oooh this sounds so good. i love oatmeal, and i love dates. why not put them together??
Oh this is delicious! It’s breakfast time here – and I’m following your recipe!
Mary x
We’ve been having oats every morning during this cold weather….
Ooh, this looks like a yummy way to start the day on a chilly morning! I love the sweetness of dates!
Lana, I love this healthy and wholesome oatmeal! It looks yummy :)
I’m glad I came here now and not at 10:30 last night when I was hungry but reading in bed. Now…I will have oatmeal and dates on in a flash. Well, maybe not dates because I’m not even sure I have any, but leaving my desk now to check. In any event there will be oatmeal and some form of fruit and nut. Thanks for a visual reminder of how much I love this for breakfast!
You’re welcome, Barb. Enjoy.
Mmmm, I need this to start my day everyday. I make something similar but I haven’t added dates, lovely addition :D
This look delicious, Lana! I can’t wait to make this for my husband – he adores oatmeal and this looks like something he would love!
Mmm….sounds like a great start to the day!
I love any oatmeal, it really is a perfect treat for breakfast, lunch or dinner! I wish my hubby liked it more, I would make it more often. Oh well:-) Hugs, Terra
Try as I may, I can not sleep past 7am. This oatmeal sounds like the perfect thing for a gotta-get-going morning.
It really is great for a quick and filling breakfast. Gets you going and on your way!
Ah, a fellow oatmeal lover – I have ’em every morning for breakfast! I definitely am going to have to try the dates in it – great boost of fiber and flavor!!
Hope you enjoy it, Nancy!