You don’t have to worry about making a hot breakfast when you put this porridge in the slow cooker before bed. You’ll awaken to a cinnamon-laced, slightly sweet pot of comfort food. It’s easy to store in the refrigerator to reheat and keeps for several days. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter to boost the protein, if desired.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 7 hours, 10 minutes

Slow Cooker Oat Porridge With Berries

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240ml) apple juice
• 3 cups unsweetened soy milk
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp allspice
• 1/2 cup steel-cut oats
• 1/2 cup millet
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

Directions

In a slow cooker, whisk together the apple juice, soy milk, cinnamon, and allspice. Add the steel-cut oats and millet and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 7 hours, or until thick.

Remove the lid and stir well to redistribute the grains, then top with the raspberries and blueberries. Serve warm.

Serves: 5 | Serving Size: 1 cup porridge and berries

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 236; Total Fat: 4g; Saturated Fat: 1g; Monounsaturated Fat: 1g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 53mg; Carbohydrate: 40g; Dietary Fiber: 6g; Sugar: 10g; Protein: 9g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 21%; Iron: 13%; Potassium: 423mg; Vitamin C: 36%

Originally published: February 16, 2020; Updated May 2026

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Calling all savory breakfast fans! Make these easy do-ahead breakfast sausage patties and you’ll wonder why you ever went with the store-bought variety. With a touch of sweetness from maple syrup, a bit of savory sage, and 21 grams of protein per serving, they’re just the thing to fuel your morning. Plus you can freeze the unused patties for future breakfasts.

Pair this with some fruit and whole grain toast for a complete meal.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes

Turkey Breakfast Sausage

Ingredients

• 1 lb (454g) ground 85/15 turkey
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseeds
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground sage
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
• Cooking spray

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, maple syrup, parsley, flaxseeds, salt, sage, garlic powder, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Stir until combined.

Using a 1/4-cup measuring cup, portion the mixture and form into patties about 1/2-inch thick.

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray. Cook the patties for about 3 minutes per side, or until browned, crusty, and no longer pink in the center with an internal temperature of 165°F. Reduce the heat if the patties begin to brown too quickly.

To freeze, arrange the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, turning occasionally, for 10–12 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (73°C).

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 2 patties

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 272; Total Fat: 18g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 0g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 85mg; Sodium: 660mg; Carbohydrate: 5g; Dietary Fiber: 1g; Sugar: 3g; Protein: 21g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 3%; Iron: 14%; Potassium: 73mg; Vitamin A: 7%; Vitamin C: 9%

Originally published November 2020; Updated May 2026

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This vibrant soup made in an Instant Pot is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. Sweet beets, ripe tomatoes, and tender carrots puree into a silky bowl that’s as nourishing as it is beautiful. Fragrant rosemary and garlic round out the flavor for a soup that feels anything but ordinary.

Active time: 20 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes

Pressure Cooker Beet and Tomato Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 whole cloves
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, halved
• 2 medium beets, peeled and diced into 1 inch cubes
• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the onion, rosemary, cloves and sauté for 3–5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Add the tomatoes, beet, carrot, and water. Lock the lid and cook at high pressure for 15–20 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then puree and strain into a medium pot.

Add the salt and black pepper and simmer for 5 minutes. Serve hot.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: About 1 cup

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 77; Total Fat: 2g; Saturated Fat: 0g; Monounsaturated Fat: 1g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 354mg; Carbohydrate: 15g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 9g; Protein: 2g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 4%; Iron: 5%; Potassium: 585mg; Vitamin A: 401%; Vitamin C: 39%

Originally published: October 26, 2018; Updated May 2026

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These mini vegan pumpkin pies are proof that plant-based desserts can be just as satisfying as the classic version. Silken tofu stands in for eggs and dairy to create a silky smooth, custard-like filling that is naturally high in protein and completely dairy-free. Warm pumpkin spices and a touch of maple syrup make these as fragrant and flavorful as any traditional pumpkin pie — and at a fraction of the effort.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes

Mini Vegan Pumpkin “Pies”

Ingredients 

• 1/2 package (6 oz./170g) firm silken tofu
• 1 cup (244g) canned pumpkin
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp almond butter
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/4 cup (79g) maple syrup

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat four 3/4- to 1-cup (96–122g) ramekins with cooking spray and place them on a sheet pan.

Place the silken tofu in a food processor and process until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Add the pumpkin and process until smooth and well combined. Add the arrowroot, almond butter, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice and process to combine. Add the maple syrup and continue processing until the mixture is smooth.

Divide the mixture evenly among the ramekins, about 1/2 cup (64g) per ramekin, smoothing the tops.

Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the edges begin to pull away from the sides.

Let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes. Serve warm, or cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 ramekin

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 164; Total Fat: 6g; Saturated Fat: 0g; Monounsaturated Fat: 3g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 17mg; Carbohydrate: 25g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 15g; Protein: 5g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 9%; Iron: 9%; Potassium: 319mg; Vitamin A: 636%; Vitamin C: 4%

Originally published October 2020; Updated June 2026

The post Mini Vegan Pumpkin “Pies” appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

With a buttery whole-grain shortbread crust and a crunchy, sweet-salty fruit-and-nut topping, these little gems are a perfect treat to share during the holidays. Dried cranberries are a good source of fiber (4g per 1/2 cup) but because they are naturally tart, many brands are loaded with added sugar (1). Fortunately, there are brands of dried cranberries that contain less added sugar or are sweetened with apple juice. Read labels carefully and you can cut the added sugar.

Active time: 25 minutes | Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes, plus cooling time

Cranberry-Walnut Bar Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup (142g) white whole-wheat flour
• 2 tbsp coconut sugar
• 3/4 tsp salt, divided
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cut into 1 inch cubes
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp ice cold water
• 1/2 cup (118g) maple syrup
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (113g) walnuts, chopped
• 1 cup (115g) dried cranberries, chopped

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two opposite sides to create a sling for easy removal.

To make the crust: In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Pulse a few times to blend. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with butter pieces no larger than a lentil, about 20 pulses.

Add the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of water. Pulse 5 times, or just until the dough begins to clump together. The mixture should hold together easily when pressed between your fingers. If it feels too dry, add more water, 1 teaspoon at a time, pulsing briefly after each addition.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press firmly into an even layer. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

To make the filling:In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Stir in the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries.

Pour the filling evenly over the warm crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the nuts are lightly browned.

Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares before serving.

Serves: 16 | Serving Size: 1 bar

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 190; Total Fat: 11g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Monounsaturated Fat: 2g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g; Cholesterol: 28mg; Sodium: 123mg; Carbohydrate: 23g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 10g; Protein: 3g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 2.5%; Iron: 3%; Potassium: 74mg; Vitamin A: 12%

Originally published December 2020, Last Updated September 2025

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This low-sugar avocado smoothie is rich, filling and chocolatey thanks to avocado, protein powder and unsweetened cocoa. Adding little cinnamon, vanilla and a pinch of cayenne pepper gives this unique shake a flavor reminiscent of Mexican hot chocolate.

Active time: 5 minutes | Total time: 5 minutes

Mexican Chocolate Avocado Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 medium ripe avocado
• 1 1/2 cup (366g) unsweetened plain soy milk
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 serving whey or plant-based protein powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 cup ice cubes

Directions

Combine the avocado flesh, almond or rice milk, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, protein powder, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt in a blender. Blend until smooth.

Add the ice cubes and blend again until creamy and smooth. Serve immediately.

Serves: 2 | Serving Size: 1/2 of the recipe, about 1 1/2 cups

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 314; Total Fat: 17g; Saturated Fat: 3g; Monounsaturated Fat: 8g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g; Cholesterol: 28mg; Sodium: 300mg; Carbohydrate: 22g; Dietary Fiber: 7g; Sugar: 11g; Protein: 24g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 10%; Iron: 8%; Potassium: 822mg; Vitamin A: 1%; Vitamin C: 13%

Originally published September 18, 2018; Updated June 2026

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This lightly sweetened breakfast porridge uses short-grain brown rice, giving it a pleasant nutty bite. Brown rice contains fiber and antioxidants, so it’s a good item to keep in your pantry for this recipe and beyond (1). Top this creamy coconut milk porridge with Greek yogurt for additional protein.

Active time: 5 minutes | Total time: 1 hour

Pressure Cooker Brown Rice Breakfast Porridge

Ingredients

• 1 cup (180g) short-grain brown rice, rinsed
• 1 14-oz. can (440ml) unsweetened light coconut milk
• 3 tbsp (60g) pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted, roughly chopped
• 1 green apple, very thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions

In the bowl of a pressure cooker, add the brown rice, coconut milk, maple syrup, salt, and 2 cups of water. 

Secure the lid and pressure cook on Manual for 30 minutes at high pressure. Make sure the pressure valve is sealed.

When the cooking program ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes, then move the pressure release valve to venting to release any remaining steam.

Remove the lid and stir the porridge. Scoop into bowls, top with Greek yogurt and garnish with toasted walnuts, and apple. Dust with cinnamon and serve.

Serves: 6 | Serving Size: About 3/4 cup porridge, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt + toppings

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 257; Total Fat: 9g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 1g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 3mg; Sodium: 226mg; Carbohydrate: 39g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 13g; Protein: 9g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 9%; Iron: 2%; Potassium: 182mg; Vitamin C: 3%

Originally published February 2021; Updated May 2026

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Quiche is divine, but the crust can be time consuming and high in saturated fat. In this recipe we skip the pastry crust and use sliced sweet potatoes to line the pie pan for a slightly sweet, tender vessel for the savory egg and kale filling.

The sweet potato crust adds some fiber and vitamin A while putting a fun twist on traditional quiche (1).

Active time: 25 minutes | Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Kale Egg-White Quiche With Sweet Potato Crust

Ingredients

• Cooking spray
• 1 5-inch (13cm) sweet potato, sliced into 1/8 inch thick rounds
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 cups (84g) kale, roughly chopped
• 8 large egg whites
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (20g) shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 6 tsp chipotle pepper sauce, or preferred hot sauce, to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375ºF (190ºC).

Spray a 9-inch, deep-dish pie pan with cooking spray, then place a single layer of sliced sweet potatoes in the pan, lining it as well as you can. There will be overlaps and gaps.

Place a square of foil on top of the sweet potato and press it on the surface of the slices, wrapping the foil around the rim of the pan. Bake for 20 minutes, until the slices are tender when pierced with a paring knife. Gently press down any slices that are not lying flat, then remove the foil. Let cool on a rack.

In a large sauté pan, drizzle the olive oil and place over medium-high heat.

Add the onion and thyme and stir, and reduce the heat when it starts to sizzle. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the onion is softened. 

Add the kale and stir for 4–5 minutes, until the kale is softened and shrunken. Let cool.

In a medium bowl, whisk the egg whites and eggs, and when well-mixed, whisk in the Parmesan and pepper.

Add the cooled kale, folding the mixture together with a spatula. Scrape into the sweet potato crust and smooth the top.

Bake for about 35 minutes, until a paring knife inserted in the center of the quiche comes out dry. The quiche should be just set with a slight wobble at the center. Let cool on a rack for 5 minutes before cutting into four wedges. Serve with hot sauce, optional.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1/4 quiche

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 168; Total Fat: 7g; Saturated Fat: 2g; Monounsaturated Fat: 3g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 108mg; Sodium: 335mg; Carbohydrate: 13g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 4g; Protein: 14g

Originally published June 30, 2020; Updated January 2026

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