Loaded cereal bowl trend on TikTok: the breakfast hack gone viral

What is the loaded cereal bowl trend?

The loaded cereal bowl trend encourages you to transform ordinary cereal into a customised masterpiece. Popular combinations include fresh fruit, nut butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a nutritious spin, or more indulgent options like crumbled brownies and whipped cream for a sweet treat.

The trend’s charm lies in its versatility – you can create a bowl tailored to your tastes and dietary goals. TikTokers often share their creations under hashtags like #LoadedCerealBowl and #BreakfastGoals, inspiring millions to experiment in their own kitchens.

How did it start?

The trend began with TikTok influencer Lauren Hoffman, who shared her pregnancy-inspired bowl featuring honey nut cereal, bananas, strawberries, peanut butter, crumbled brownie, and milk. Her post struck a chord with TikTok users, quickly gaining over 1.4 million views.

Since then, people have put their own spin on the trend, from high-protein bowls packed with Greek yoghurt and seeds to dessert-inspired creations featuring chocolate chips and marshmallows.

Why is it so popular?

Parents love the trend as a way to make breakfast more engaging for children. Letting kids choose their toppings not only sparks creativity but also encourages them to eat more fruit or try new flavours.

The NHS offers guidance on creating healthier breakfasts, which parents can apply to the loaded cereal trend:

• Fibre: Opt for high-fibre cereals such as Weetabix, Bran flakes, or porridge oats. Fibre supports digestion and keeps kids fuller for longer.
• Sugar: Choose low-sugar cereal varieties and consider adding dried fruit for sweetness instead of sugar.
• Whole grains: Wholemeal cereals and unrefined grains like oats or shredded wheat are excellent choices.
• Iron: Iron-fortified cereals can help, particularly when paired with Vitamin C-rich fruit like oranges or strawberries to boost absorption.

Healthy twists for kids

If you’re looking to embrace the trend while keeping it nutritious, here are some NHS-inspired ideas for kids’ loaded cereal bowls:

• Classic and fruity: Unsweetened porridge or low-sugar cereal topped with fresh fruit and milk.
• Wholesome treat: Wholewheat biscuit cereal with stewed apple and plain, unsweetened yoghurt.
• Protein-packed: Lower-sugar cereal with a dollop of Greek yoghurt and a sprinkle of chia seeds.

These options not only follow NHS recommendations but also give parents peace of mind that their children are starting the day with a balanced meal.

Keep an eye on sugar

The NHS highlights the importance of limiting added sugar in children’s diets to prevent tooth decay. While it’s tempting to include sweet toppings like chocolate or honey, try to use these sparingly or as an occasional treat. Encourage kids to embrace naturally sweet ingredients like berries, banana slices, or a handful of raisins instead.

How to make your own loaded cereal bowl

Here’s how to join the trend while staying mindful of health:

1. Pick a healthy base: Choose a high-fibre cereal, like porridge oats, Weetabix, or Shreddies.
2. Add fresh or dried fruit: Try bananas, strawberries, or even a handful of raisins for natural sweetness.
3. Incorporate protein: Nut butter, plain yoghurt, or a sprinkle of seeds can help make the meal more satisfying.
4. Go easy on extras: A small amount of dark chocolate chips or a dash of cinnamon can add excitement without overloading on sugar.
5. Top with milk or yoghurt: Pour your favourite option and enjoy!

Whether you’re shaking up your morning routine or looking for a fresh way to engage your kids, the loaded cereal bowl is a simple but effective way to elevate breakfast. Why not give it a go and let your imagination (and taste buds) run wild?

Read more:

• Chancellor announces £1 billion for SEN and tripled breakfast club budget
• Dinosaur and squid pancakes? Dad cooks educational breakfasts
• Healthy toddler breakfast ideas to start the day