A plant-based drink that impresses with the combination of oats, berries and vanilla. The natural sweetness of the berries harmonizes with the creamy texture of the oats and the warm aroma of the vanilla. Perfect as a breakfast companion, dessert or simply to enjoy in between. Non-alcoholic but with depth – thanks to the right preparation.
And this is what you need for the Berry-Vanilla Oat Drink
80 g oats (rolled or steel-cut, not instant)
1 litre water
200 g mixed berries (fresh or frozen, e.g. raspberries, blueberries, strawberries)
2–3 tbsp maple syrup (to taste)
1 tsp vanilla extract (or ½ scraped vanilla pod)
1 pinch of salt (optional, enhances the flavours)
This is what matters
The trick lies in straining: if you blend the oats for too long or squeeze the residue, you extract bitter compounds into the drink. It’s better to let the liquid simply drip through – this keeps the drink velvety and mild. For an extra creamy texture, stir in 1 tbsp almond or cashew butter before adding the berries. This adds a nutty depth without overpowering the flavour.
Variations
- Chocolate-Berry Oat Drink — mix 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder with the oats. Replace the berries with 1 banana and add 1 tsp cinnamon. Particularly filling and perfect for cold days.
- Spiced Oat Drink — mix ½ tsp ground cardamom or ginger with the oats. Replace the maple syrup with 1 tbsp date syrup. Goes well with savoury breakfast dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the drink without a blender?
Yes, but the texture will be coarser. Soak the oats overnight in water, then bring to a boil with the berries and vanilla in a pot and blend with a hand blender. The taste remains similar, but the creaminess suffers.
How long does the drink keep in the fridge?
For a maximum of 2 days. The oat milk separates over time, and the berries lose freshness. Always stir well or blend briefly before serving.
Can I use other sweeteners?
Yes, honey, agave syrup or coconut blossom sugar also work. Maple syrup, however, has the advantage of blending well with vanilla and not dominating the flavour.
