About the Recipe
Bircher Muesli will always hold a special place in my heart—it’s one of those timeless Swiss staples that feels as nourishing as it is nostalgic. While most people think of it strictly as a breakfast dish, growing up in a Swiss household, we’d often have a good “Birchi” for supper on hot summer nights when no one felt like cooking. Just like my Baked Apples, it’s one of those recipes that proves how comforting simple, wholesome ingredients can be.
Made with soaked oats, grated fruit (apple is a must!), and a mix of nuts, yogurt, or cream, this muesli is endlessly flexible. Sometimes, I swap part of the oats for a bit of my Homemade Granola to add extra texture and a hint of crunch. It’s a subtle twist, but it brings that cozy, toasty flavor I love, and other times I mix in whatever fruit I have on hand—plums, of course, reminding me of my Swiss Plum Tart (Wähe), which is another late summer favorite.
Whether you’re enjoying it chilled on a sunny morning or as a light evening meal, Bircher Muesli is one of those quietly perfect recipes—healthy, easy, and filled with little moments of joy in every bite.
No cooking required – Perfect for summer mornings or evenings when you want something fresh without turning on the stove.
Customizable – Use whatever fruits, nuts, or dairy/non-dairy options you have on hand. It’s endlessly adaptable!
Naturally nutritious – Full of fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins to start (or end) your day with energy and balance.
Great for meal prep – Make a big batch and enjoy it for days. It only gets better as the flavors meld together.
A nostalgic Swiss favorite – Rooted in tradition, this recipe brings a bit of alpine comfort to your kitchen.
What You'll Love
Can I adjust the sweetness? Yes! The recipe includes 3 tablespoons (35g) of sugar, which gives it a gentle sweetness that complements the fruit without overpowering it. If your fruit is very ripe or naturally sweet (like bananas or summer berries), you might want to reduce the sugar slightly. Prefer a sweeter version? Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup just before serving instead.
Do I have to use whipped cream? Not at all. While whipped cream gives a rich, traditional texture, plain yogurt (dairy or non-dairy) works beautifully and adds a tangy contrast. You can also use a mix of yogurt and cream if you’d like to lighten it up without losing that creamy feel.
Can I prepare it ahead of time? Yes! Bircher muesli is ideal for overnight prep. Simply mix everything together (except very delicate fruit like bananas or berries), refrigerate, and give it a quick stir before serving. Add soft fruits just before eating to keep them fresh.
What fruits work best? Crisp apples are the classic choice, but plums, apricots, oranges, and berries all shine here. Use what’s in season or what you love. A mix of textures and flavors makes the bowl extra satisfying.
Can I make it dairy-free? Absolutely. Swap whipped cream for coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt, and use your favorite plant-based milk. It’s just as creamy and satisfying!
Frequently asked Questions
Ingredients
150g rolled oats (1½ cups)
100g hazelnut meal or almond meal (1 cup)
35g granulated sugar (3 tablespoons)
180g whipped cream – or plain yogurt for a lighter option (¾ cup)
120ml milk (½ cup)
300–400g mixed fresh fruit, chopped (about 2 cups) – apples, plums, apricots, berries, bananas, oranges, or whatever’s in season
Juice of ½ lemon, freshly squeezed
Preparation
Making a Bircher Muesli is so straight forward and easy, there is really nothing to it.
Combine the dry baseIn a large mixing bowl, stir together:
1½ cups (150g) rolled oats
1 cup (100g) hazelnut meal (or almond meal)
3 tablespoons (35g) granulated sugar
Add the liquids
Pour in:
¾ cup (180ml) whipped cream or plain yogurt
½ cup (120ml) milk
Stir well until everything is fully combined and the oats are well-coated.
Rest and hydrate
Cover the bowl and let the mixture rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best texture. The oats will absorb the liquid and soften into a creamy consistency.
Add the fruit
Right before serving, fold in:
2 cups (about 300–350g) chopped fruit of your choice(e.g., apples, plums, apricots, berries, bananas, oranges, or a mix)
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and prevent browning of fruits like apples and bananas.
Taste and adjust
Give your muesli a taste. Add a touch more milk if it feels too thick, or a drizzle of honey/maple syrup if you'd like it sweeter.
Serve and enjoy
Spoon into bowls and enjoy immediately—or refrigerate for a cool, satisfying breakfast, snack, or even a light supper.
I personally like to eat it when it is freshly made, but if you do make it ahead of time, just be aware that it will thicken slightly. If you like a smoother texture, just add a little more milk and give it another stir.
I certainly hope you enjoy this as much as I do! Word of warning, it is hard to stop eating once you start!
Bon ap!
