Ecuadorian Colada
I grew up drinking colada de avena, but I drank it the most while breastfeeding both of my girls. This creamy Ecuadorian oatmeal drink (colada de avena) with apples and cinnamon became my go to, and it’s the recipe I’ve sent to five of my girlfriends who were struggling with their milk supply. Every one of them came back saying this magic drink did the trick. Oats are one of the most popular foods moms turn to when trying to increase milk supply, and this is my favorite way to enjoy them.
It’s not only delicious, it’s warm, filling, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup. So whether you want something cozy for your kiddos or yourself during the fall and winter, or you’re a breastfeeding mom looking for lactation snacks and foods that increase milk supply, this is the recipe you need in your life.
Why You’ll Love This Colada de Avena
- Cozy and Nourishing: Oats, apples, and milk make a filling drink for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
- Naturally Sweetened: A little maple syrup is all it needs.
- Warm or Chilled: It’s delicious both ways, and kids especially love it cold.
- Great for breastfeeding moms: Oats are a classic lactation food, and this is the drink I relied on while nursing both of my girls.
Ingredients Needed to Make Ecuadorian Colada
You only need a few pantry staples to make this creamy oat-based drink:
- Water: Simmered with the cinnamon sticks to make a fragrant base.
- Cinnamon Sticks: For that warm, cozy spice.
- Oats: Soaked in water until expanded. Rolled or traditional oats work best.
- Apples: Sliced and cooked until soft.
- Milk of Choice: Almond milk works well, or use any milk you like.
- Maple Syrup: Sweetens the colada naturally.
How to Make Colada de Avena
Follow these easy steps to create a smooth, creamy, cinnamon-infused drink:
Step 1: Simmer the Cinnamon
In a medium pot, add the water and cinnamon sticks. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the liquid turns deep brown and fragrant.
Step 2: Remove the Cinnamon Sticks
Take out the sticks or strain them from the pot.
Step 3: Cook the Apples
Add the sliced apples and let them cook on medium heat until soft.
Step 4: Add the Soaked Oats
Stir in the soaked oats along with their soaking water. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick.
Step 5: Add the Milk
Pour in your milk of choice. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then remove from heat. Let it cool for 15–20 minutes.
Step 6: Blend Until Smooth
Transfer to a blender, add the maple syrup, and blend until silky and creamy. Serve warm or chilled. Both ways are delicious.
What to Serve With Ecuadorian Colada
This colada pairs beautifully with savory Ecuadorian breakfast favorites. Try it alongside a warm tortilla de yuca with mozzarella or a plate of mote pillo for a cozy morning meal.
Is Colada de Avena Good for Breastfeeding Moms?
Oats are one of the most well known foods to increase milk supply, and many breastfeeding moms swear by them, including me. This colada is warm, filling, and easy to sip throughout the day, which makes it a perfect lactation snack when you’re busy feeding a baby. It also keeps you hydrated, which matters when you’re nursing. Every body is different, so if you’re worried about increasing milk supply, talk with a lactation consultant or your doctor for personalized support.
What People Ask About Colada de Avena
Does this colada really help increase breast milk supply?
It worked for me and for the girlfriends I shared it with, and oats are a classic food many moms rely on to support milk supply. Results vary from person to person, though. If you’re having trouble with your supply, a lactation consultant can help you find what works best for you and your baby.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Almond, oat, or coconut milk all work beautifully.
Can I sweeten it differently?
Absolutely. Honey, panela, brown sugar, or agave can be used instead of maple syrup.
How should I serve it?
You can enjoy it warm, room temperature, or chilled. Kids especially love it cold.
How long does it keep?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake or stir before serving, since it naturally thickens as it sits.
More Recipes to Try
- Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
- Best Roasted Carrots
- Arroz Con Menestra Y Carne Asada
- Pollo Tropical Cilantro Garlic Sauce
Ecuadorian Colada
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium pot, combine the water and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer until the water turns a deep brown and fragrant, about 15–20 minutes.
- Remove or strain out the cinnamon sticks.
- Add the apple slices to the pot and cook on medium heat until the apples soften
- Stir in the soaked oats along with the soaking water. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the milk, let it come to a boil and then remove from heat. Let it cool for 15- 20 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender, add maple syrup, and blend until smooth.
