Stirring cocoa powder or zero-sugar hot chocolate into porridge makes it tastier and creamier without adding sugar, and it costs less than pre-made flavoured sachets. The simple DIY recipe uses regular porridge oats and a chocolatey powder of choice, offering a healthier and cheaper alternative to shop-bought versions.
Simple recipe with health benefits
According to The Family Food Kitchen, chocolate porridge works well because it is full of various health benefits but the powder adds no refined sugar. The recipe involves stirring porridge oats with milk in a saucepan and adding three tablespoons of cocoa powder, with roughly double the amount of milk as porridge in a 2:1 ratio. Continuous stirring prevents burnt porridge from sticking to the pan.
For a lower-calorie option, milk can be swapped for water and cocoa powder for zero-sugar hot chocolate, such as Options hot chocolate. The same ratios apply: double the amount of water as oats and three tablespoons of hot chocolate. This version has no added sugar or fat and no calories in the water, producing a super skinny porridge that retains all the goodness of the oats.
Better than store-bought options
They said: “When it comes to fast and yummy breakfasts this chocolate porridge is unbeatable. It's ideal on cold mornings and really does heat you from the inside out.”
“Porridge is also great for gut health. Plus it's full of fibre and protein so keeps you fuller for longer.”
“Yes, it may be chocolate flavored - but this homemade porridge still contains a lot less sugar and salt than lots of ready mixed porridge you can buy in the store.”
Whether using quick oats, Scottish oats or a cheap porridge oat bag, the results are similar, making this a versatile and economical breakfast choice.
