Anyone who knows me also knows I’m nothing without a good breakfast before I head to class in the morning. Unfortunately, it can be a hassle for students to worry about breakfast when we’re all busy getting ready, driving or walking to class, and doing that extra homework before it starts.
While all these concerns are valid, it’s so important to have all the nutrients you need first thing in the morning. By eating breakfast, your brain can function for a full day of class and work, and you won’t have to stress about getting hungry before lunchtime.
Luckily, I’ve collected plenty of options that’ve served me well since I started taking myself to school back in my junior year of high school. With these quick and easy breakfast meals, you too can be prepared for anything college life throws your way!
- Bagels
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As the daughter of a Long Islander, bagels are my absolute GOAT of all breakfast foods. They come in a variety of flavors, from the classic everything bagel to cinnamon raisin. If you’re in a sweet mood, you can try a jam, or if you’re a savory person, garden vegetable cream cheese might be for you.
I find myself gravitating towards blueberry or cinnamon raisin bagels, with a basic plain cream cheese on top, just because it’s so easy in the morning. I pop a bagel in the toaster while I wash my face and comb my hair, because multitasking is the way to go. After I’m ready, I spread cream cheese on my toasted bagel and head out.
Bagels are easily my go-to breakfast, and I can’t imagine living without one in the morning.
- Toaster Waffles
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Like my beloved bagels, I love to throw a waffle in the toaster and eat it on my way out the door. I’ll usually opt for a protein option, like the Kodiak Cakes Power Waffles, so I’m less likely to get hungry in the middle of class.
Waffles are also great without a topping, because even though syrup is delicious, it’s a little hard to eat on your waffles and walk at the same time. Thankfully, skipping syrup also saves time in your morning routine, so you can get to class faster. To add some extra flavor, try a blueberry or chocolate chip waffle so there’s something of interest without a topping.
- Breakfast Bars
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Probably the simplest of all the foods on this list, breakfast bars are also the most versatile. Ranging from granola bars to biscuits, there are so many options that you can find at nearly every grocery store. You can even grab a fruit to add more flavor and texture to your breakfast bar.
I tend to eat breakfast bars only if I’m in a big rush to get somewhere because they require absolutely no prep, which is great for busy college lives. If you’re someone who has trouble eating first thing after you wake up, it can also be helpful to pack a breakfast bar for later in the morning.
- Egg Cups
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This option is best suited for someone who likes to meal prep the night before and then quickly put their meal in the microwave while getting ready. So, a little more involved, but totally worth it in the morning.
Another great thing about egg cups is that you can put whatever you want in them, from vegetables to meat to cheese. That also means they’re packed full of protein and nutrients you need to start your busy day. There are so many recipes out there, so you can pick and choose a different flavor profile every time you make egg cups.
- Smoothies and Shakes
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Just like the egg cups, making smoothies and shakes the night before can save time (and your roommate’s ears) in the morning. Since these are cold drinks, you can put them right in your fridge and then grab one as you’re walking out the door.
There are also plenty of options for different tastes and lifestyles, whether you want fruit, protein, or caffeine in the morning. I don’t usually drink a smoothie or shake in the morning, but I know plenty of people who swear by them and have one every day.
Out of everything on this list, I know I’m interested in trying a smoothie for breakfast to get some fruit in before class. Hopefully, I’ve convinced you to try some new breakfast ideas or maybe expand your own tastes in the morning, too!
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