Pin This cherry pie breakfast pasta bowl transforms your morning routine with a delightful twist on traditional breakfast. The combination of tender pasta with sweet cherry compote, creamy yogurt and crunchy oat topping delivers all the comfort of cherry pie in a satisfying morning meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
I created this recipe during cherry season when I had an abundance of fresh cherries and was craving something different from my usual breakfast routine. My daughter initially gave me a skeptical look but after one bite declared it her new favorite special breakfast request.
Ingredients
- Small pasta like orzo or shells: provides the perfect base with a tender texture that absorbs flavors beautifully
- Fresh or frozen cherries: deliver natural sweetness and that classic cherry pie flavor
- Maple syrup: adds depth and complexity beyond regular sugar
- Greek yogurt: creates a creamy protein rich layer that balances the sweetness
- Rolled oats: transformed into a crunchy topping give that essential pie crust element
- Cinnamon and vanilla extract: provide warm aromatic notes that make this truly feel like dessert for breakfast
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package directions until just al dente usually about 7 to 9 minutes. You want the pasta to retain a slight firmness as it will continue to absorb moisture from the yogurt. Once done drain thoroughly and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cherry Compote:
- Combine pitted cherries maple syrup lemon juice and vanilla extract in a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer stirring occasionally. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes watching as the cherries soften and release their juices which will thicken slightly into a gorgeous ruby syrup. The compote should coat the back of a spoon but still have whole cherry pieces for texture.
- Create Oat Crunch Topping:
- Melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam. Add the rolled oats brown sugar cinnamon and salt stirring constantly to coat the oats evenly. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes golden and fragrant and the sugar has caramelized around the oats. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning and spread on a plate to cool completely which ensures maximum crunchiness.
- Assemble Your Breakfast Bowls:
- Start by dividing the cooled pasta between two bowls creating an even base layer. Gently spoon Greek yogurt over the pasta spreading it to create a creamy middle layer. If desired drizzle a small amount of maple syrup over the yogurt for added sweetness. Spoon the warm cherry compote over the yogurt allowing some of the juice to seep down into the layers below.
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the cooled oat crunch generously over the top of each bowl. Add chopped toasted almonds or pecans if using for extra protein and crunch. Garnish with a few fresh cherries if available. Serve immediately while the contrast between warm compote and cool yogurt is at its peak.
Pin The cherry compote is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered that adding just a tiny splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor tremendously making the cherries taste even more like themselves. My family has a tradition of making this with the first cherries of summer a ritual that marks the beginning of fruit season in our home.
Make Ahead Options
This breakfast bowl has several components that can be prepared in advance making your morning routine smoother. The pasta can be cooked up to two days ahead stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling. The cherry compote keeps beautifully for up to five days refrigerated and actually develops deeper flavor over time. Even the oat crunch topping can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week maintaining its crispness. With all components prepared simply assemble fresh bowls in the morning for a gourmet breakfast in minutes.
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring Version: Use strawberries and rhubarb instead of cherries. Add a touch of orange zest to brighten flavors. Incorporate fresh mint as a garnish.
Summer Version: Try a mix of stone fruits like peaches and plums. Consider adding fresh basil for an unexpected aromatic note. Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Fall Version: Substitute apples or pears sautéed with cinnamon and nutmeg. Add a sprinkle of cardamom to the oat topping. Incorporate dried cranberries for tart contrast.
Winter Version: Use frozen berry blends when fresh fruit is scarce. Add warming spices like ginger and cloves. Incorporate a tablespoon of orange marmalade into the compote.
Kid-Friendly Modifications
Children absolutely love this breakfast bowl with a few thoughtful adjustments. Try using star or alphabet pasta shapes to make it more playful and engaging. Consider creating a build your own breakfast bowl bar where kids can choose their own toppings and layers. For pickier eaters blend the cherries smooth if texture is an issue or substitute with more familiar fruits like strawberries. Adding a small sprinkle of mini chocolate chips to the topping makes this feel like an extra special treat while still being nutritious. My son particularly enjoys helping make the oat crunch topping watching carefully as it transforms in the pan.
Pin Enjoy this delightful breakfast bowl that combines the best of breakfast and dessert. It's a perfect way to make any morning feel special and satisfying.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, both fresh and frozen cherries work well. If using frozen, add them directly to the pan without thawing.
- → What pasta shapes are best?
Small shapes like orzo, small shells, or ditalini are ideal for an even bite and easy scooping.
- → Is it possible to make this vegan?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free yogurt and coconut oil in the oat crunch for a vegan option.
- → How can I add more texture?
Top with chopped toasted nuts or a handful of granola for an extra crunch and nutty depth.
- → Can I prepare the components in advance?
Yes, the cherry compote and oat crunch can be made ahead and stored separately in airtight containers.
- → What other fruits work well?
Try blueberries, strawberries, or diced peaches for a different flavor twist in the compote.