Mornings can be hectic, but that doesn't mean you have to skip breakfast or settle for something bland. With a little planning and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying start to your day, even when you're short on time. Here are some quick breakfast ideas to help you power through busy mornings, including a clever way to make bottled cold brew part of your routine.
Overnight oats are a classic make-ahead breakfast that saves precious minutes in the morning. Simply combine rolled oats with your choice of plant-based beverage, a spoonful of nut butter, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Add in chia seeds, a pinch of cinnamon, and your favourite fruits or berries. Mix everything in a jar or container, refrigerate overnight, and grab it on your way out the door.
Tip: For an extra boost, try adding a splash of bottled cold brew to your oats before refrigerating. This gives you coffee and breakfast in one easy step, perfect for mornings when you need a little extra energy.
Smoothies are a fast and versatile option for breakfast. Blend together a banana, a handful of berries (fresh or frozen), a scoop of nut butter, and a plant-based beverage for a creamy, delicious drink. Toss in a tablespoon of flax or chia seeds for extra texture. If you're looking to combine your morning coffee and breakfast, blend in a shot of bottled cold brew for a refreshing twist.
Quick recipe:
Blend until smooth and pour into a to-go cup for a breakfast that's ready in minutes.
Toast is a quick and endlessly customizable breakfast. Start with whole grain bread or an English muffin and top with your favourite spreads -- think nut butter and banana slices, hummus and sliced veggies, or avocado and a sprinkle of seeds. For a more filling option, add a hard-boiled or fried egg, or layer with plant-based cheese and roasted vegetables.
Make-ahead tip: Prepare a batch of breakfast sandwiches on the weekend, freeze them, and reheat in the toaster or microwave for a grab-and-go solution.
Layer plant-based or regular yogurt with granola and fruit in a jar or cup for a breakfast that's both quick and portable. Add a handful of nuts or seeds for crunch, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for sweetness. Parfaits can be made the night before and kept in the fridge, making them ideal for busy mornings.
For those mornings when you need something you can eat on the move, breakfast cookies and muffins are a great choice. Bake a batch of oatmeal breakfast cookies or banana muffins ahead of time and store them in the freezer. In the morning, just warm one up in the microwave for a few seconds and you're good to go.
If you have leftover waffles or pancakes from the weekend, freeze them with pieces of wax paper in between. On a busy morning, pop one in the toaster and top with nut butter, fruit, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a breakfast that feels special with minimal effort.