What Do You Put on Your Cereal Besides Sugar?

When it comes to cereal, sugar is often the default addition, but it doesn’t have to be. There are numerous ways to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your cereal without relying on added sugars. Whether you prefer cold or hot cereal, there are plenty of options to try.

Tasty and Nutritious Toppings

Here are some popular choices to sprinkle on your cereal:

Fruits

Fresh fruits like bananas, berries, apples, and peaches can add natural sweetness and vitamins to your cereal. These options not only taste great but also provide essential nutrients to boost your health.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats and protein. Options like almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds can add a delightful crunch and a boost of nutrition to your breakfast.

Milk Alternatives

For a change in flavor, try milk alternatives such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. These can add a unique twist to your cereal and are also great for those following a dairy-free or plant-based diet.

Natural Sweeteners

Honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural alternative to sugar. These options add a different kind of sweetness and have various health benefits compared to refined sugar.

Spices

Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor of your cereal without adding extra sugar. These spices are not only tasty but also have potential health benefits, such as aiding in blood sugar regulation and digestion.

Coconut Flakes

Unsweetened coconut flakes can add texture and flavor to your cereal. They are a great option for those who enjoy something a little different and can provide a tropical twist to your breakfast.

Sweet Indulge with Chocolate

For a sweeter, indulgent twist, you can use chocolate chips or cocoa powder. These options add a rich, chocolatey flavor to your cereal, making it a tasty treat without the need for added sugar.

Your Personal Cereal Preferences

While there are many options to choose from, the type of cereal you prefer will also play a role in what toppings you add. For instance, if you are having cold cereal, you might prefer to go with full-fat milk and berries. In contrast, hot cereal might call for different additions such as brown sugar, crushed toasted walnuts, berries, butter, or a drizzle of peanut butter.

Personal Experiences and Insights

Some people have specific preferences when it comes to their cereal. For example, one individual mentioned that they do not add table sugar to their cereal and instead opt for full-fat milk and berries, or berries and yogurt with porridge. They also suggested adding eggs to porridge, especially with soft yolks, as an interesting variation.

Another user shared their favorite cereal, Honey Bunches of Oats, topped with organic cranberry granola, thinly-sliced bananas, and raisins. They reminisced about some of their earliest memories of sitting around the kitchen table with their mother while eating Rice Krispies, sliced bananas, and sugar. This nostalgic reminder of a healthier alternative, unsweetened almond milk, with uncooked oats, a small sliced banana, a sprinkle of raisins, complements their endorsement of unsweetened fresh fruits as a natural sweetener. Similarly, they enjoy slices of peach for their breakfast.

Ultimately, the idea is to choose toppings that align with your personal health goals and taste preferences. Too much refined sugar is indeed detrimental to health, so it is best to avoid overly sweetened cereals and instead opt for natural cereal alternatives like rolled oats or any other natural product.