The Best Oatmeal Cereal for Babies
Medically reviewed and cowritten by Jamie Johnson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Lauren Braaten, Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT).
Ditch the box! And try this easy homemade Oatmeal for Babies recipe instead. Made with simple ingredients in less than 10 minutes, it’s perfect for your baby’s first bite or added to their favorite fruit or veggie puree. I’ll also show you how to serve oatmeal as a finger food for baby-led weaning. There is nothing this baby oatmeal won’t do, and it tastes so much better than the store-bought boxed version! Baby food for 6+ months – stage 1 baby food!
Oatmeal Cereal
Looking for a smooth and creamy oat cereal for your baby that doesn’t have to come from a box!
I’ve got you!
Oatmeal cereal was the third puree I introduced to both of my babies—behind apple and broccoli. And to this day, they both still LOVE oatmeal. Is it a coincidence? I’m not sure since there are only two test subjects in my study, but I’m going to go with it. Over the last 10 years and countless batches of this oatmeal recipe, I’ll have to say (humble brag ahead) that I have absolutely nailed this recipe.
We start by simmering some old-fashioned oats in a bit of water until they are nice and soft. I would highly recommend adding some cinnamon to the oats as well, but you do you. The key to making this oatmeal for babies is that you want it to be on the wetter side since you are going to puree it, and during that process, the oats will thicken up. If your blended cereal gets too thick, no worries, you can just add some additional water to it.
#momhack – to save time, make a double batch and freeze most of the oatmeal cereal in small portion so you can have a stash of oatmeal on hand for your baby.
But, let’s just be honest for a sec – plain oat cereal isn’t going to win any taste awards. In order for us to create oatmeal lovers, we are going to have to spice it up a bit. Here are some delish ways that I have served these oats to my little ones:
✔️ added some shredded apples and cinnamon after I blended the oats
✔️ mashed some blueberries and bananas into the simmering oats
✔️ added frozen peaches and a pinch of nutmeg to the simmering oats before blending
Nothing too fancy or time-consuming, just a bit of flavor and added fruits/veggies to up the flavor profile. You got this! And if you need more ideas, keep scrolling because there are six more ideas for you below.
Watch How to Make this Oatmeal Cereal
Ingredients
Make sure to read the recipe card below for the complete ingredient list and instructions!
- Oats: we are using rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) in this recipe. But below I have the directions for steel and instant oats as well.
- Chia & Hemp Seeds: are optional. I add them for a small boost of nutrients, but you can omit if you prefer.
Gluten-Free Oats: If you are looking to introduce your baby to gluten-free oats, then make sure you look for a brand that is labeled as Gluten-Free. This is my favorite brand of Gluten-Free Oats.
Health Benefits of this Oatmeal Recipe
This homemade oatmeal cereal is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals for a growing baby.
- packed with two different types of fiber
- great source of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for brain, eyes and organ development
- has antioxidants that are essential for eliminating the hazards of free-radicals
First time making homemade baby food? Then, I would suggest that you start by reading my very in-depth Guide on how to Make Homemade Baby Food! You can also check out my best-selling cookbook for even more information and recipes!
Let’s Get Cooking
How to Make Baby Oatmeal
There are several different ways to cook oats, depending on which type of oat you are using.
Old-Fashioned Oats
- Boil: bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add Oats: add in 1 cup of old-fashioned oats along with a pinch of chia seeds, hemp seeds and any spices you are using.
- Cook: turn down the heat to medium-low and cook the oats for 5 minutes or until all of the water is gone and the oats are soft. Let cool slightly.
- Blend: transfer the oats to a blender or food processor and puree for 1-2 minutes, adding water in 1/4 cup increments if needed, until completely smooth.
- Eat: serve to baby or freeze for later.
Steel-Cut Oats
- Boil: bring 3 cups of water to a boil.
- Add Oats: add in 1 cup of steel-cut oats along with a pinch of chia seeds, hemp seeds and any spices you are using.
- Cook: turn down the heat to medium-low and cook for 25-30 minutes or until all of the water is gone and the oats are soft. Let cool slightly.
- Blend: transfer the oats to a blender or food processor and puree for 1-2 minutes, adding water in 1/4 cup increments if needed, until completely smooth.
- Eat: serve to baby or freeze for later.
Instant Oats
- Boil: bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
- Add Oats: add in 1/2 cup of instant oats along with a pinch of chia seeds, hemp seeds and any spices you are using to a boil.
- Cook: turn down the heat to medium-low and cook the oats for 1-2 minutes or until all of the water is gone and the oats are soft. Let cool slightly.
- Blend: transfer the oats to a blender or food processor and puree for 1-2 minutes, adding water in 1/4 cup increments if needed, until completely smooth.
- Eat: serve to baby or freeze for later.
Oat Powder
- Grind Oats: Place 1 cup of old-fashioned oats in a coffee grinder or blender. Grind for 1-2 minutes or until you have a very fine oat powder.
- Add Hot Water: In a microwave-safe bowl, add in roughly 1 tablespoon of oat powder and 1-2 tablespoons hot or boiling water. Stir until smooth, adding more water if needed. Let sit until warm enough to eat.
Oatmeal Combination Purees
While Oatmeal is great by itself, it’s also super easy to mix and match with other nutrient-dense baby food purees. Give these fun Stage 2 Baby Food flavor combos a try!
How to serve Oatmeal for Baby-Led Weaning
Oats can be hard food for your baby to pick up and feed themselves (oh the mess!). A great way to serve oats as a finger food is by simply spooning a couple of strips or round shapes of cooked oats on a plate and then letting them cool off on the counter or in the fridge. Once cold, the oats will harden enough for your baby to be able to pick them up by themselves. I’m not saying there won’t be a mess.. but it will be less of a mess and easier for your baby to self-feed. Babies are usually ready for baby-led weaning around 6+ months of age.
6 Ways to Flavor Oatmeal
Once you get the basics of oatmeal down for your baby, you can have some fun and serve them some flavorful combinations. Here are some great options that baby, toddler, kids and even you will love!
- Apples + Cinnamon: add in a couple of heaping spoonfuls of grated apple and a big pinch of cinnamon to oats right before serving. Can add a touch of maple syrup or brown sugar into toddlers or kid’s bowls.
- Spinach + Pineapple: cook the oats with a handful of frozen pineapple. Add to a blender along with a handful of spinach, pulse or puree until spinach is incorporated.
- Blueberries, Cinnamon and Vanilla: add in a handful of frozen blueberries, a pinch of cinnamon and a drizzle of vanilla extract while cooking the oats. Serve whole or blend for baby.
- Banana + Peanut Butter: add in slices of a very ripe (lots of brown spots) banana to the oats while they are cooking. Mash the banana while it is cooking into small pieces. Spoon oats with banana into a bowl and add a swirl of peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter you prefer) right before serving. Serve whole or blend for baby.
- Carrots + Flax: add in a handful of grated carrots to the oats while they are cooking. Serve whole or blend for baby. Spoon the oats and carrots into a bowl and top with a sprinkle of ground flax seeds. You can also add finely chopped walnuts and raisins to toddlers and kid’s bowls.
- Mango with Coconut Milk: cook the oats in canned coconut milk (instead of the water) and then add in a handful of fresh or frozen cubed mango. While cooking, mash the mango with the back of a spoon. Serve whole or blend for baby.
Get the recipe: The Best Oatmeal Cereal for Babies (10 Minutes)
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- 1/2 tsp hemp seeds (optional)
- 1 /2 tsp chia seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Boil: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add Oats: add in 1 cup of old-fashioned oats along with the chia seeds, hemp seeds and any spices you are using.
- Cook: turn down the heat to medium-low and cook the oats for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until all of the water is gone and the oats are soft. Let cool slightly.
- Blend: transfer the oats to a blender or food processor and puree for 1-2 minutes, adding water in 1/4 cup increments if needed, until completely smooth. I had to add 1/2 cup of water to my oatmeal. You will want the oat cereal to be on the thinner side so it doesn't become sticky. The oats will continue to absorb liquid as they cool, so add more water, breast milk or formula as needed.
- Eat: serve to baby or freeze for later.
Notes
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Frequently Asked Questions
Baby can have oats as one of their first foods. When a baby can start on solids is determined by their own rate of development, which generally comes between 4-6 months of age. Some of the developmental milestones babies need to reach in order to start solids include: if your baby has solid control of their head and neck, if your baby has doubled in weight, and if your baby is reaching for or opening their mouth when you eat (see my guide here). Before you start your baby on purees, you should consult with your pediatrician to make sure your child is developmentally ready.
No, oatmeal is not a common allergen, however, as with any food, start with a small portion and be aware of any signs that might be an allergic reaction after introducing it.
No, oatmeal can actually help relieve constipation in babies due to the high fiber content that makes it easier on your baby to pass stools.
65 Comments on “The Best Oatmeal Cereal for Babies”
Wondering if you can add breast milk instead of water before it cools ??
Hi! I recommend adding breast milk while blending. xo, Michele
Thank you very much
Great recipe! My babe absolutely loves it! Question… once I reheat the oatmeal, it’s very gooey. Is this normal? Almost like glue . He still enjoys it but what can I do to change that? If I add breast milk, it becomes too watery
Thanks for reaching out – yes the oatmeal will become very thick once reheated. I find adding in a little liquid before heating helps it thin back out. But start with just 1-2 tablespoons of liquid for 4 ounces of oatmeal. Stir and add more if needed.
Perfect recipe! Oatmeal came out soft and it was easy to adjust the thickness.
So glad you enjoyed this recipe!
For the oat powder can I just mix it with cold breastmilk and feed to my baby?
I would use warm breastmilk, but yes, just add in the warm liquid, stir and serve.
Love this recipe. I have to add cereal to my son’s formula since he has reflux. Do you think I could add the puree oats instead?
Since this is a medical question and I don’t know your son’s case, I would recommend you ask your pediatrician for more information.
This recipe is a miracle worker. My daughter loves it so much, she eats it every day. It keeps her poop schedule very regular. Ever since I started feeding it to her daily, she poops anywhere from 3-5 times a day and has never been healthier. Highly recommend!!
So glad that your little one loves her oatmeal and that she is on a regular ‘bathroom’ schedule!
Hello,
I fed my baby organic steel cut oatmeal but I purée it in the beaba. She’s 6 months now. It was her second food I introduced her too and she loved it. I was wondering if it was okay to just give her steel cut oatmeal instead of baby oatmeal. I just noticed her bowel movement was way more then usual like 4 times a day.
Yes, you can serve baby just steal cut oatmeal instead of adding cereal to her diet. Just be sure she is getting iron in other forms and you will be fine.
Hi. Can I cook rolled oat with microwave instead in boiling water? I have grind it into powder oat.
Yes, that would work as well!
Awesome! Thanks!
Hi,
My baby is 8mo. I made the oatmeal powder but would really like to add hemp and chia to this… how could I add it to the pat powder? Could I blend hemp and chia into a powder to add?
Thank you! Love your recipes 🙂
You can blend the oats, hemp and chia seeds altogether and then add in the hot water to cook the oats.
Easy and simple plus my baby enjoyed it.
So glad your little one enjoyed this!
Love how easy you make the recipe to understand and follow
I had a couple of queries
If I do not have enough breast milk to blend and prepare big big stash of food :
I know we use water to blend out oats , veggies and fruits , can we add breast milk to the puree made with water?
Yes, you can add in any amount of breastmilk along with the water for any puree while blending. Or you can leave the breastmilk out completely and just use water.
Thank you for detailed and very informative recipes. Easy to follow and make home made baby food. We are only just starting our adventures with solids, so we are still at the stage of getting to know different tastes. You mentioned that stage 1 (4-6 months) is single food stuff (taste) and stage two (6+) is combination – do spices like cinnamon and nutmeg count as the second taste or can I include them in the first stage too?
So glad you are here and you found this guide informative. Spices do not count as an ingredient but you can leave them out if you prefer.
Can we use formula to make oatmeal?
You can add fresh formula to the oats while blending. I wouldn’t add any formula while cooking the oats as the nutrients in the formula will diminish while cooking.
So it’s ok to freeze after blending in the formula? Formula by itself I know you shouldn’t not freeze so I was wondering if it’s blended with food.
Yes, you can freeze formula once it’s mixed with a food. Good question:)
Hello! I was just wondering how long this can be stored for before it goes bad?
You can store the oatmeal in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months. I hope that helps.
Hi! Can’t wait to try this recipe! Question though: Are spices okay to add for Stage 1 baby food? Or should I just begin with nothing at all except the oats + chia & flax seeds for my 6 month old?
Thanks so much!
Yes, you can add spices to your baby’s food right from the start (read more here) but your baby has already been exposed to them through the food you ate. But you can always leave them out if you prefer.
Help! I recently tried the blending raw oats and adding it to hot water method you describe above. I ground the oats into a fine powder but when I added to the hot water It coagulated and was very chunky and separated from the water. Any advice on how to get it smoother?
This method is definitely more chunky than the cook/puree method. It’s hard to say, but it sounds like you need maybe a little more water and to stir it a little longer. How hot was your water?
Can I used rolled oats for this recipe?
Yes, rolled oats work for this recipe.
Hello!! I feed my baby gerber oatmeal thru out the day thru bottles and spoon. Bottles to make them thicker and more fulfilling. No where on the internet can I find a homemade oatmeal cereal that I can just add into his bottle and go without cooking it. Can you help? How would I make my own homemade oatmeal cereal to put into his bottle and go. I notice on gerbers oatmeal cereal box the Ingredients state “whole grain oat flour” . What is this ? Should I use rolled oats that are already precooked? Or instant oats that are precooked ? I’m trying to steer away from store bought oatmeal cereal as it has a lot of arsenic. Please help!
This recipe will be great to serve to your baby as a meal with other fruit or veggie purees. I would recommend only serving baby their formula in a bottle and keep the oatmeal to a meal, but you should consult your pediatrician if you have any more questions.
How would I cook a single serving of the oatmeal in the microwave from the oat flour that’s stored in the fridge?
I would start by cooking 1/4 cup of oat flour with 1/3 cup of water and microwave in 20-second intervals until warm. Since every microwave is slightly different, this may take some tweaking to get the perfect time and quanities.
Oh good point!! Thank you so much for letting me know 🙂
Can you make this with breastmilk instead of water?
Yes, you can add fresh breast milk to the oats while blending into a cereal. I would not recommend using breast milk to cook the oats as most of the nutrients would cook out with the heat.
Oh good point! Thanks for letting me know 🙂
This recipe sounds great! I would love to make this for my baby, but I was wondering what brand of oats do you personally use? I’m having trouble deciding which to buy
I usually buy gluten-free old-fashioned oats from Bob’s Red Mill (because I am gluten-free) but you can use any old-fashioned oats you prefer. If you can’t find Bob’s then I would recommend the organic generic brand from any store. Hope that helps.
How do I thaw this once frozen? Microwave? Also, can I add ground flax seed?
You can use this guide to thaw frozen purees. Yes, you can add a 1/2-1 tsp of ground flax seeds to this recipe.
Perfect oatmeal recipe! My baby loved it and finished it all. Thanks for sharing.
My twin babies love this recipe. I made 120ml and they finished all of it which is first time they ate a lot. love this.
So happy to hear this!
I followed this recipe to the t and just wondering is it supposed to be thick? I find it very gummy almost like glue. Baby doesn’t seem to care for it. He makes a face it spits it out.
If it’s too thick, you can add in more liquid or another puree that baby likes.
I have made this a few times for my daughter now and she loves it! But I am wondering how in the world you get the chia seeds to all blend down? I am always left with a lot of seeds still? Is it because of using your vitamix vs me using a ninja? I have tried using the blender and food processor but neither seem to be able to get all the seeds
Hi I was wondering if it was okay to substitute the Barleans Digestive Seed Blend for the chai. It has flax, chia coconut, pumpkin and quinoa in it?
Thanks!
I haven’t tried using this blend, but it sounds amazing and worth a try!
Hi there! This looks great! I was curious if you personally did the 3 day trial of each item separately before mixing them together?
My babe absolutely loves this cereal! Thank you for a great recipe, and for also working seasonings into it. I love that I have “permission” to expose my child to fun seasonings! One question: after it’s frozen, how do I go about thawing and heating it up? Currently, I have servings of this in my freezer, but want to feed tonight, if possible. Any advice? Thank you!
You can gently heat it up in the microwave in 30-second increments, leave it in the fridge overnight or heat in a small skillet over medium-low heat. You may need to add in a little liquid if it is too thick.
How long will this last in the fridge?
How long will this last in the fridge?
Hi! Thanks for your wonderful baby recipes!
I want to add some oomph to my son’s breakfast and he’s been having the Earth’s Best oatmeal for babies so they’re the instant ‘powdery’ just add water kind. Can I use that as a sub for the oatmeal in this recipe?
Hi! Thanks for your wonderful baby recipes!
I want to add some oomph to my son’s breakfast and he’s been having the Earth’s Best oatmeal for babies so they’re the instant ‘powdery’ just add water kind. Can I use that as a sub for the oatmeal in this recipe?