In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1.5 cups water, 1/2 cup milk, and a pinch (1/4 tsp) salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

Simmer

Once it reaches a boil, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently, stirring every 30 seconds, until the oats are tender and most liquid is absorbed—about 6–8 minutes for rolled oats. For a creamier texture, simmer up to 10 minutes, adding a tablespoon of milk if mixture becomes too thick.

Flavor & Sweetening

Sweeten and season

When oats are nearly done (1 minute remaining), stir in 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.

Creaminess & Texture

Finish with butter and yogurt

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon unsalted butter until melted and incorporated. If you want extra creaminess, stir in 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt until smooth. Let sit 1 minute to thicken slightly.

Toppings

Assemble and garnish

Spoon the oats into a serving bowl. Top with 1/2 sliced banana, 2 tablespoons toasted chopped almonds, and 1/4 cup fresh berries. Finish with a small drizzle of extra maple syrup if desired and a pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance flavor.