How to Make Oats with Cocoa Powder and Milk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Oats with Cocoa Powder and Milk is a modern Singaporean breakfast beverage that’s quickly gaining popularity in both trendy cafes and traditional kopitiams. This comforting drink is a beautiful blend of wholesome oats, rich cocoa powder, and creamy milk—creating a fusion that represents the multicultural, evolving food scene of Singapore. Inspired by our love for kopi and malted drinks, this recipe brings together international influences with local flair, making it a familiar yet innovative choice for health-conscious Singaporeans. In the bustling hawker centres of Singapore, beverages like Milo Dinosaur and Teh Tarik are classics. Oats with Cocoa Powder and Milk draws on this beverage tradition, offering a heartier, more nutritious twist that caters to modern lifestyles. It’s perfect for busy mornings, post-workout recovery, or a mid-day snack, especially when you’re looking for something filling yet light. With the addition of local ingredients like gula melaka (palm sugar) and a dash of sea salt, this drink becomes a true reflection of Singapore’s fusion food culture—delicious, nourishing, and uniquely ours. Best of all, this recipe is easily adaptable for different dietary needs, making it suitable for families, office workers, and students alike. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, Oats with Cocoa Powder and Milk provides a smooth, chocolatey comfort that fits right into Singapore’s fast-paced, food-loving lifestyle.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · In a bowl
In a bowl, combine rolled oats with hot water. Let it soak for 10 minutes until the oats soften.
Step 2 · Transfer the soaked oats to a small saucepan
Transfer the soaked oats to a small saucepan. Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 3 · Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and sea salt until well combi...
Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and sea salt until well combined and smooth.
Step 4 · Add gula melaka and stir until completely dissolved
Add gula melaka and stir until completely dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 5 · Optional: Add chia seeds
Optional: Add chia seeds, cinnamon powder, and vanilla essence for extra nutrition and aroma.
Step 6 · Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the oats are fully cooked and ...
Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the oats are fully cooked and the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 7 · Pour into mugs and serve hot
Pour into mugs and serve hot. For an iced version, let cool slightly, pour over ice cubes in tall glasses, and stir well.
Why this recipe is healthy
Choosing Oats with Cocoa Powder and Milk means opting for a nourishing, low-calorie breakfast option that keeps you full and energised. The use of whole grains and natural sweeteners aligns with modern Singaporean dietary trends. By skipping refined sugars and using low-fat milk, this recipe helps manage calorie intake while still satisfying chocolate cravings. High fibre from oats and chia seeds supports gut health, making this drink an excellent choice for weight management, heart health, and sustained energy throughout the day.
A note on tradition
In Singapore, oat-based drinks are a staple at local kopitiams and hawker centres, especially among health-conscious diners seeking a nutritious start to the day. While oats are a newer addition to our breakfast repertoire, they have been embraced due to their versatility and health benefits. This recipe draws inspiration from beloved local drinks like Milo and Horlicks, blending them with modern superfoods to create a beverage that’s both familiar and innovative. It’s especially popular during busy mornings before work or school, and is sometimes enjoyed as a light supper (supper) after a long day.