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Bircher Muesli
Breakfast

Bircher Muesli

A carefully crafted dish that blends traditional and modern cooking techniques to deliver comforting flavors for every occasion.

⏱️

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Difficulty

Medium

📂

Category

Breakfast

Recipe Details

Bircher Muesli

By Yossy Arefi

Updated Oct. 23, 2024

Basic Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Chilling Time: At least 1 hour

  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

  • Servings: 4

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Rating: 4.0 (1,338 reviews)

  • User Comments: 142

Historical Context

Bircher muesli traces its origins to the early 1900s, when Swiss physician Maximilian Bircher-Benner developed it as a nutrient-dense, fiber-rich breakfast. The original formula featured rolled oats, grated apple, nuts, lemon, condensed milk, and honey—created to support digestive health and balanced nutrition. Over time, it has evolved into a versatile base for culinary innovation, with modern versions adapting ingredients like yogurt, nut butters, and seasonal fruits while retaining its core philosophy of wholesome, make-ahead convenience.

Recipe Overview

This iteration reimagines the classic with a creamy, tangy profile:

  • Moisture: Greek yogurt replaces traditional fruit juice/applesauce to enhance creaminess and fiber.

  • Depth: Tahini (or nut butter) adds umami richness; nuts and dried fruits are customizable.

  • Brightness: Fresh lemon and optional maple syrup balance sweetness, while fresh fruit toppings elevate texture.

Ingredients

For 4 servings

Base Mix:

  • 2 cups rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)

  • 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt (strained for creaminess; regular Greek yogurt works)

  • 2 tbsp tahini (or 2 tbsp nut butter, e.g., almond butter)

  • 1 lemon: zest + 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

  • ½ cup mixed nuts (chopped: walnuts, almonds, or cashews)

  • ½ cup dried fruit (chopped: dates, figs, cranberries, or raisins)

  • 1–2 tbsp honey/maple syrup (optional, for sweetness; omit if using sweet dried fruit)

  • Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)

Toppings:

  • Fresh fruit: sliced banana, blueberries, strawberries, or peaches

  • Extra nuts: hazelnuts, pistachios, or sunflower seeds

  • 1–2 tsp maple syrup (for final sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix oats, chopped nuts, and dried fruit. Stir to distribute evenly.

  2. Add Wet Components: Pour Greek yogurt into the oat mixture. Stir in tahini (or nut butter), lemon zest, lemon juice (if using), honey/maple syrup (if using), and salt. Mix until oats are fully coated.

  3. Chill to Infuse Flavor: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 48 hours) to let oats soften and absorb moisture.

  4. Serve & Top: Scoop into bowls. Add fresh fruit, extra nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup (if desired). Enjoy cold and creamy!

Pro Tips

  • Texture Control: Reduce chilling time to 30 minutes for a crunchier texture; extend to 2 hours for extra creaminess.

  • Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Refresh with a splash of milk or yogurt if dry.

  • Customization: Swap nuts (e.g., pine nuts, Brazil nuts) or dried fruit (apricots, mango) for personal preference.

This recipe balances tradition with flexibility, ensuring a delicious, nourishing breakfast that adapts to your taste.