Name: Vegan Breakfast Lentil and Oat Porridge with Apple, Cocoa, and Yogurt Recipe
Prep time: 4 h 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1/3 cup dried split red lentils; 1/3 cup rolled oats; 1/3 cup water (or unsweetened nondairy milk), plus extra for soaking and cooking; 1 apple, grated; 1 tablespoon date syrup (or maple syrup); 1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon (optional); 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon unsweetened peanut butter (or nut or seed butter); 1/4 cup unsweetened Greek-style vegan yogurt (or yogurt of choice)

If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, let me introduce you to this fantastic Vegan Breakfast Lentil and Oat Porridge with Apple, Cocoa, and Yogurt Recipe. It’s a hearty, nourishing start to your day with the gentle sweetness of grated apple, the richness of cocoa, and the creamy tang of plant-based yogurt. This porridge combines wholesome lentils with oats for a unique texture and protein boost that keeps you energized all morning long. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, comforting, and loaded with flavors that are both familiar and delightfully surprising.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear plastic jar with a white lid, filled with two distinct layers of food. The bottom layer is made up of small, round, orange lentils tightly packed. The top layer consists of uncooked rice grains, pale off-white in color, filling the rest of the jar above the lentils. The jar is placed on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting ready to make this porridge is a breeze because the ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the earthiness of lentils to the fresh brightness of apple, every component contributes to this unique breakfast treat.

1/3 cup dried split red lentils: These cook quickly, adding protein and a creamy texture to the porridge.
1/3 cup rolled oats: The classic breakfast staple for softness and heartiness.
1/3 cup water or unsweetened nondairy milk: A gentle cooking liquid that keeps the porridge creamy and moist.
1 apple, grated: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely fresh texture.
1 tablespoon date syrup or maple syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the apple’s fruity notes.
1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon (optional): Warms up the flavors with subtle spice.
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Brings a fragrant, cozy aroma to the dish.
1 teaspoon unsweetened peanut butter or any nut/seed butter: Adds creaminess and a slight nutty depth.
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder: For a rich chocolatey twist that’s both earthy and indulgent.
1/4 cup unsweetened Greek-style vegan yogurt or yogurt of choice: Provides tangy contrast and silky creaminess as a finishing touch.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Vegan Breakfast Lentil and Oat Porridge with Apple, Cocoa, and Yogurt Recipe

Step 1: Soak Lentils and Oats

Start by combining the dried split red lentils and rolled oats in a bowl. Cover them with water so that it rises about an inch above the grains, then pop it in the fridge to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. This soaking step softens the lentils and oats, speeds up cooking, and makes the porridge easier to digest—plus it helps bring out a naturally creamy texture.

Step 2: Rinse Thoroughly

Once soaked, drain and rinse the lentils and oats using a fine mesh strainer. This step helps wash away any residual bitterness from the lentils and refreshes the grains, setting the stage for a clean, bright flavor in the porridge.

Step 3: Cook the Base

Transfer the soaked lentils and oats to a saucepan and add just enough water or your preferred unsweetened nondairy milk to cover them. Gently simmer over medium-low heat for around 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This careful cooking ensures the mixture begins to soften and meld as a cohesive porridge base.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in grated apple, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and date syrup. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, keeping an eye on consistency, and add more liquid as needed. This step layers in the natural sweetness and warm spices that make this Vegan Breakfast Lentil and Oat Porridge with Apple, Cocoa, and Yogurt Recipe feel like a cozy morning treat.

Step 5: Finish with Cocoa and Nut Butter

Remove from heat and allow the porridge to cool slightly. Next, gently fold in the unsweetened cocoa powder and your choice of nut or seed butter. Adding these ingredients off the heat protects delicate cocoa flavanols and ensures the nut butter blends smoothly without separating, delivering rich, indulgent flavor and creaminess.

Step 6: Serve with a Yogurt Topping

Spoon the warm porridge into a bowl and generously top with the unsweetened Greek-style vegan yogurt or your favorite plant-based yogurt. This final touch provides a cool, tangy contrast and make your breakfast feel luxurious without any dairy.

How to Serve Vegan Breakfast Lentil and Oat Porridge with Apple, Cocoa, and Yogurt Recipe

A clear glass jar shows thick layers of creamy white yogurt and rich brown chocolate, swirled together with a light sprinkle of powdered cinnamon or cocoa on top. A gold spoon rests inside the jar, angled towards the upper left, with a woman's hand holding it. The jar sits on a white marbled surface, and soft shadows stretch out from the jar and spoon under bright light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh toppings can elevate your porridge to new heights. Try sprinkling toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds for crunch, a few fresh apple slices for brightness, or a drizzle of extra date syrup if you love it sweeter. Shaved dark chocolate or a dusting of cinnamon can add pretty and flavorful accents.

Side Dishes

Keep your breakfast balanced with simple sides like a fruity smoothie, fresh berries, or warm whole-grain toast. A cup of your favorite herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee pairs beautifully with the comforting flavors of this porridge.

Creative Ways to Present

This porridge looks stunning layered in a glass jar for a grab-and-go breakfast option or served in a rustic ceramic bowl for an inviting homemade feel. Swirl extra yogurt and a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for an elegant finish if you’re serving guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover vegan porridge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It thickens overnight, so just add a splash of water or nondairy milk and gently reheat to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing

Freezing this porridge is possible, though it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. If freezing, portion into individual containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove with a bit of liquid to loosen the texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently. Add a little water or nondairy milk as needed to avoid drying out, and finish with a fresh swirl of plant-based yogurt or nut butter to revive that fresh-from-the-pot creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use different types of lentils for this recipe?

Red split lentils are preferred as they cook quickly and become soft and creamy without overpowering the dish. Other lentils, like green or brown, may take longer to cook and alter the texture, but with adjustments, you can experiment.

Is the cocoa powder really necessary?

The cocoa powder adds a rich, chocolatey depth that complements the sweetness of apple and the earthiness of lentils, but if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely.

Can I make this without soaking the lentils and oats?

Soaking helps the lentils and oats soften faster and improves digestibility. While you can cook them without soaking, expect longer cooking times and possibly a firmer texture.

What kind of yogurt works best as a topping?

Unsweetened Greek-style vegan yogurts offer a creamy, tangy element that balances the sweetness of the porridge well. Coconut or almond-based yogurts are excellent alternatives as long as they are unsweetened to keep the flavors harmonious.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The naturally sweet apple, cocoa, and creamy texture make it an appealing breakfast option for kids, and the plant-based protein supports energy and growth. Just adjust any spices if you prefer milder flavors for little ones.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Breakfast Lentil and Oat Porridge with Apple, Cocoa, and Yogurt Recipe has become a beloved morning ritual for me, combining nutritious ingredients with warm, inviting flavors that feel like pure comfort. It’s perfect for those chilly mornings when you want something more satisfying than a basic bowl of oats. Give it a try and welcome a wholesome, delicious change to your breakfast table—you might just find your new favorite way to start the day.