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    Home » Recipes » Breakfast

    Oatmeal Vs Cream Of Rice

    Published: Jun 12, 2023 · Modified: Feb 19, 2025 by Amy Sandidge · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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    Are you wondering about the difference between oatmeal vs cream of rice, keep reading to find out more. Oatmeal and cream of rice are two popular breakfast options that provide essential nutrients to start the day. While they may seem similar, there are distinct differences between these two dishes. Either type of cereal is easy to find in most grocery stores.

    I wrote another post all about the differences between Cream of Wheat and oatmeal if you are looking for the differences between these 2 kinds of cereal as well. Just like the oatmeal and Cream of Rice, there are also major differences between these 2 as well.

    Homemade cream of rice cereal in white bowls with butter and chopped walnuts on top.

    Differences between Cream of rice and oatmeal

    • The first, and main difference is they are made from 2 different grains. Oatmeal comes from oat groats, while the cream of rice comes from
    • The texture of the two cereals is also very different. Cream of rice has a smoother texture that is more creamy. The texture of oatmeal on the other hand is a chewier texture.
    • Additionally, oatmeal has a light nutty flavor, while the cream of rice has a more neutral taste.
    Cream of rice cereal with berries on top.
    Creamy oatmeal in a ceramic bowl.

    Similarities between Cream of Rice and Oatmeal

    Oatmeal and cream of rice have some notable similarities. Both are whole-grain breakfast cereals that are commonly eaten for breakfast.

    • • Both oatmeal and cream of rice are gluten-free, making them suitable options for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
    Gluten-free cream of rice cereal in a white bowl.
    Brown sugar oatmeal in a white bowl with a spoon in it.

    What is Cream of Rice and how is it made?

    Cream of Rice is a hot cereal that is made from finely ground rice grains. This cereal is a popular breakfast option and is known for its smooth and creamy texture.

    Cream of wheat dry in a metal bowl.

    The rice grains used to make cream of rice are generally short-grain white rice, but other varieties of rice can also be used. The process of pre-cooking the rice grains involves steaming under pressure, which gelatinizes the starch in the rice and makes it more easily digestible.

    The rice is then dried and milled into rice flour or powder, which can be cooked into a creamy hot cereal by adding liquid and heating on the stove or in the microwave. It is often fortified with vitamins and minerals, such as iron and niacin, to enhance its nutritional value.

    How to serve Cream of Rice

    One of the great things about Cream of Rice is its versatility. It can be served as a sweet or savory dish, depending on the toppings and flavors used.

    Some people prefer to sweeten their cream of rice with brown sugar or honey. I also like to add brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup.

    Dried fruit is also a great topping, my favorites are dried cranberries, figs, and currants.

    For higher levels of protein, peanut butter or other nut butter are options too. Chia seeds are also a good choice.

    If you are on a vegan diet, be sure to use plant-based milk like almond milk and plant-based butter.

    Others enjoy adding savory toppings like cheese, bacon, or eggs.

    Water heating up in a pan to cook cereal.
    Cream of rice in a stainless steel pan.
    Cream of rice cereal with berries on top.
    Homemade cream of rice cereal in white bowls with butter and walnuts on top.

    Types of oats and how to use them

    Oats are a versatile ingredient that can be found in a variety of dishes, including oatmeal, granola, and baked goods. They are also one of the most popular grains on the market. We are all familiar with them.

    There are several different types of oats available, each with its own unique texture and cooking time.

    Steel-cut oats are a popular option for those who enjoy a chewy texture and nutty flavor, while oat groats are the least processed type of oats and take the longest to cook.

    Old-fashioned oats, also known as rolled oats, are another popular type of oatmeal. They are made by flattening oat groats with large rollers and have a slightly softer texture than steel-cut oats.

    Quick-cooking oats, on the other hand, are made by cutting old-fashioned oats into smaller pieces before steaming and rolling them. They cook even more quickly than old-fashioned oats and have a softer texture.

    However you choose to eat them, this popular breakfast food is one of those staple foods we can all love.

    Check out some of my favorite recipes below.

    • Baked berry oatmeal in a white baking dish.
      Easy Baked Berry Oatmeal Recipe
    • Chocolate baked oatmeal in a white baking dish.
      Chocolate Baked Oatmeal Recipe
    • Creamy Oatmeal Recipe
    • Creamy Blueberry Breakfast Oatmeal Recipe

    How to make homemade cream of rice cereal

    Making your own cream of rice is an alternative to traditional white carbs, as brown rice can be used to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the cereal. I will include the recipe for making your own cream of rice brown cereal in the recipe box below.

    To make your own cream of rice, simply blend the rice of your choice in a blender or food processor is broken up and blended. Cook the blended rice with liquid and salt on the stove, stirring occasionally until it reaches a creamy, smooth texture.

    Adding sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can also enhance the flavor of the cream of rice.

    Just remember that if you are making your own cream of rice to use for infant cereals, do not add honey as a sweetener until your baby is at least a year old.

    A woman holding a small ceramic bowl of brown rice.
    Woman cooking homemade cream of rice in a stainless steel pan.
    Homemade cream of rice cereal in white bowls with butter and walnuts on top.

    A new recipe to my site that needs a place in our oatmeal/cream of rice discussion, is my apple cinnamon oatmeal recipe. It is rich, and delicious and can be made ahead of time.

    Homemade cream of rice cereal in white bowls with butter and chopped walnuts on top.

    Homemade Cream of Rice Cereal Using Brown Rice

    Amy Sandidge
    Did you know you can easily make your own cream of rice cereal at home? This is a no-preservative creamy breakfast that you will love!
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 12 minutes mins
    Total Time 17 minutes mins
    Course Breakfast
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4 servings

    Equipment

    • 1 blender or food processor
    • 1 Saucepan

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup long grain brown rice
    • 4 cups liquid I like to use a blend of water and almond milk. 2 cups of water, 2 cups of almond milk.
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • toppings of choice

    Instructions
     

    • Place the brown rice in your blender or food processor. Pulse for about a minute until the brown rice is broken up and in really small pieces.
    • Bring the liquids to a boil over medium-high heat.
    • Add the rice and salt to the liquids and reduce heat to medium-low.
    • Cook, stirring frequently until it thickened and the rice is softened.
    • Serve and top as you like. My favorite way is to top it with a little butter and pure maple syrup. If not this, then with plenty of fresh berries!

    Notes

    One of the great things about Cream of Rice is its versatility. It can be served as a sweet or savory dish, depending on the toppings and flavors used.
    Some people prefer to sweeten their cream of rice with brown sugar or honey. I also like to add brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
    Dried fruit is also a great topping, my favorites are dried cranberries, figs, and currants.
    For higher levels of protein, peanut butter or other nut butter are options too. Chia seeds are also a good choice.
    If you are on a vegan diet, be sure to use plant-based milk like almond milk and plant-based butter.
    Others enjoy adding savory toppings like cheese, bacon, or eggs.
    Keyword brown rice, cream of rice
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    Hi, I'm Amy! I am a culinary school graduate creating a comprehensive collection of recipes, with a focus on incorporating whole grains. My goal is to craft dishes that resonate with the whole family. 

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