How To Make Cream of Wheat Hot Cereal

One of the most popular hot breakfast porridges in the Slavic culture is mannaya kasha (Манная Каша), which is known as cream of wheat in English. This creamy cereal is a favorite with children but is enjoyed by many adults too.

Ah, Cream of Wheat—what a nostalgic dish! I fondly remember enjoying it throughout my own childhood, and it was a popular easy breakfast option growing up in Belarus. If you love oatmeal or rice pudding for breakfast, this hot cereal is one more you can try.

Cream of Wheat has always been one of those classic first foods for babies, and it quickly turns into a favorite! My boys loved it when they were younger. Even though I don’t whip it up for them that often anymore, whenever I do, they still gobble it up. Sometimes, they even request it themselves—it’s just one of those comforting meals that never gets old!

There's something so comforting about its smooth, creamy texture. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! A little melted butter and a sprinkle of sugar turn it into a delightful morning treat that keeps everyone coming back for more. Cream of Wheat is one of the easiest hot cereals to make, and I’m excited to share the recipe with you! It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for when you need to cook something up really fast.

What is Cream of Wheat or Mannaya Kasha? (Манная Каша)

Cream of wheat is a porridge or hot cereal that is made with ground wheat kernels, which is why it's called "cream of wheat". The tiny little wheat granules are cooked in water or milk, just for a few minutes, until they soften, thicken up and become a creamy consistency.

Mannaya Kasha (Манная Каша - labeled Манная Крупа on the package in European stores), that we are familiar with in the Slavic culture is actually a little bit different than the cream of wheat you can by in American grocery stores. It's a little bit lighter in color and may be a little bit smoother, although it's hardly noticeable when the cereal is cooked up and if you're not comparing it side by side.

Where To Buy The Cream of Wheat?

I prefer buying the Russian Манная Крупа at a local European store. We have both a Polish and a Russian store in our area. I'm not loyal to any particular brand, I usually just buy what is available.

However, if you don't have one, there are lots of other options. Most grocery stores sell different versions of cream of wheat, sometimes called farina.

You can even buy it online. I bought this one by Bob's Red Mill in bulk (4 of these packages in one box) on Amazon. *

Milk? Water? What Non-Dairy Alternatives Can You Use?

I personally use milk and water to cook the cream of wheat/mannaya kasha. You can use all milk or all water, if you want. In my opinion, it doesn't taste good with just water, but it's entirely up to you and your taste preferences.

You can also use any type of milk that you like - almond milk, coconut milk, cashew milk, goat milk, etc. However, use something you like the taste of in the first place.

How To Cook Cream of Wheat

There are two ways of cooking the cereal:

1. Mix the liquid with the uncooked cream of wheat/mannaya krupa in a saucepan or pot.
   • Turn on the heat on medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring frequently throughout that time. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for just 1-2 minutes, until the cereal starts to thicken.
   • Keep in mind that it will thicken even more as the cereal stands and cools off. It will be thicker in consistency than what it is right after coming to a boil and simmering for a few minutes. OR
2. Bring the liquid to a boil, THEN add the uncooked cream of wheat/mannaya krupa to the hot liquid.
   • Pour in the cream of wheat gradually, whisking consistently, until it's completely incorporated into the liquid.
   • Cook for 2-5 minutes, once again, just until the porridge thickens.

Make sure to consistently whisk the cereal as it is cooking, or lumps will form. This is important to note.

Can You Cook the Porridge in Advance? How To Reheat?

Yes and no:). Technically, you can make a large portion and then just reheat, but it's going to be much harder to have a smooth and even consistency. In most cases, it will become lumpy and thick as it stands and when you reheat it, it will continue to be lumpy. I suggest only making enough to serve and eat it all at once. It is so easy and quick to prepare, that it's simple enough to make, even it you make it every morning.

However, if you happen to have a bit leftover, you can reheat it in the microwave or in a saucepan on the stovetop. Add a bit of milk or water to thin it out, otherwise it will most likely be too thick. Use a whisk to mix it up as evenly as you can.

Serving the Cooked Hot Cereal

The best way to enjoy Cream of Wheat is warm, and I like to keep it simple with just a little butter, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of sugar.

But don’t stop there! You can really get creative by adding your favorite toppings. Think jam, crushed or fresh berries, nuts, or any fresh fruit you love—just like you would with oatmeal. There are so many delicious ways to customize it!

More Delicious Breakfast Ideas

• Instant Pot Oatmeal
• Green Smoothie For Kids
• Healthy Breakfast Ideas
• Instant Pot Rice Pudding

Print

*affiliate link - This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.