Whether it's for work or classes, many people find themselves skipping breakfast because—let’s face it—those extra few minutes of sleep are worth it. But, there is nothing worse than that pang of midmorning hunger. So to find a perfect middle ground, here are a few recipes for quick and easy breakfasts that will allow you to still hit snooze while not letting your stomach go empty in the morning.


Photo: Ryan McLaughlin


For the Sweet Tooth: French Toast Mug

Batter–based breakfasts can take a long time to prepare. Instead, try a classic French toast with a time–saving twist. 

What You Will Need

1 Teaspoon of butter

3 Tablespoons of milk

1 Teaspoon of maple syrup

1/4 Teaspoon of cinnamon

1/4 Teaspoon of vanilla extract

1 Large egg

1 Cup bread pieces

Directions

  1. Place butter in a microwavable mug for about 20 seconds, or until it is melted. 
  2. Add the milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and egg to the mug and whisk until everything is well mixed.
  3. Stir in the bread pieces until all the pieces are coated with the liquid mixture (let the bread sit and absorb the liquid for about 1 minute if you have time so the bread can absorb as much flavor as possible).
  4. Microwave the mug for 60–90 seconds, or until the mixture is solid. Top off with berries, whipped cream, or extra syrup to your liking.

Extra Time Saving Tip: Cut up a cup’s worth of your favorite bread the night before so you don’t have to in the morning. 


Photo: Ryan McLaughlin


For the Protein Lover: Instant Microwave Frittata

Looking to cut some time and carbs at the same time? This easy–to–make frittata will give you some of the best tasting scrambled eggs, and you’ll love how much time you’ll be saving.

What You Will Need

2 Eggs

3 Tablespoons of Milk

Pinch of Salt

Pinch of Pepper

1 Tablespoon and a pinch of Shredded Cheese

1 Tablespoon of Bell Pepper, finely chopped

1 Tablespoon of tomatoes, finely chopped

Directions

  1. Crack two eggs into a microwavable mug or mason jar and whisk together with the milk until well combined.
  2. Add salt, pepper, the tablespoon of cheese, peppers, and tomatoes and lightly whisk together.
  3. Microwave for 60–90 seconds until all the liquid has cooked through and solidified. Finish with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top and enjoy!

Extra Tasty Tip: Customize your frittata with a tablespoon of any topping, from diced ham to onions, or even salsa.


Photo: Ryan McLaughlin


For the Aspiring Pastry Chef: Pancake Mix Crepe Wrap

While this recipe may take a little bit of extra time, enjoy this traditional French treat in the morning for a portable and delicious breakfast.

What You Will Need

1 cup of pancake mix (Krusteaz, Bisquick, etc.)

1 ½ cups of milk

1 egg

1 teaspoon of vanilla

1 tub of Cool Whip

2 cups of diced strawberries

Directions

  1. Coat a non-stick medium size pan with non-stick cooking spray and set on the stove at medium heat.
  2. Whisk together pancake mix, milk, egg, and vanilla until well combined and there are no lumps left in the batter.
  3. Pour ⅛ cup of batter into the pan and tilt the pan to ensure that the whole pan is coated in a thin layer of batter. Cook for 1–2 minutes or until all the batter on the top has cooked.
  4. Remove crepe from the pan and spread a spoonful of Cool Whip to cover the crepe. Add ¼ cup of strawberries all around the crepe and roll up.
  5. Repeat the process until all the crepe batter has been used or until you've made enough to be satisfied (recipe will make about 8 crepes)

Extra Time Saving Tip: Make the crepe batter the night before and store it up for 2–3 days

Extra Tasty Tip: Feel free to switch up toppings by using ¼ cup of Nutella instead of Cool Whip or bananas instead of strawberries. You can also make savory crepes using shredded cheese, sliced avocado, and ham.

So whether you wake up in the mood for something sweet or something savory, don’t skip out on breakfast. Instead, take the 5 extra minutes and get ready to take on the day with a full and happy stomach.