Oatmeal vs. Cream of Wheat — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on November 18, 2023
Oatmeal is made from ground or rolled oats, while Cream of Wheat is made from ground wheat kernels. Both are popular breakfast cereals but come from different grains.
Difference Between Oatmeal and Cream of Wheat
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Oatmeal is a cereal dish made by boiling ground, steel-cut, or rolled oats. The main ingredient, oats, is a grain that's rich in fiber, especially soluble fiber called beta-glucan. Cream of Wheat, on the other hand, is a creamy hot cereal made from ground wheat kernels. Its main ingredient is wheat, which offers a different texture and nutritional profile compared to oats.
Oatmeal's consistency can vary, ranging from thick and chewy to creamy, depending on how the oats are processed and cooked. Cream of Wheat, due to its fine texture, tends to have a consistently smooth and creamy consistency. Oatmeal has a more distinct grainy texture, while Cream of Wheat offers a smoother mouthfeel.
Nutritionally, Oatmeal stands out for its fiber content, particularly the heart-healthy soluble fiber. This type of fiber has been linked to reduced cholesterol levels and better heart health. Cream of Wheat, while not as high in fiber as Oatmeal, is often enriched with vitamins and minerals, especially iron, making it a good choice for those needing an iron boost.
Oatmeal, being derived from oats, is naturally gluten-free, although one should be cautious about cross-contamination if sensitive to gluten. Cream of Wheat, being derived from wheat, contains gluten. Thus, for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, Oatmeal might be the preferable option unless a gluten-free version of Cream of Wheat is chosen.
The flavors of Oatmeal and Cream of Wheat also differ. Oatmeal has a nuttier, earthy flavor, while Cream of Wheat tends to have a mild taste, often enhanced with added flavors or toppings. Both cereals can be sweetened or flavored with a variety of ingredients like fruits, nuts, and spices, making them versatile breakfast options.
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Comparison Chart
Grain Source
Oats
Wheat
Texture
Grainy, can be creamy or chewy
Smooth and creamy
Nutritional Highlight
High in soluble fiber
Often enriched with vitamins & iron
Gluten Content
Naturally gluten-free (watch for cross-contamination)
Contains gluten
Flavor Profile
Nuttier, earthy
Mild, often enhanced with additives
Compare with Definitions
Oatmeal
Ground or rolled oats used for porridge or in baking.
I added Oatmeal to my cookie recipe for added texture.
Cream of Wheat
A hot cereal made from ground wheat kernels.
I love starting my day with a warm bowl of Cream of Wheat.
Oatmeal
A hot cereal made by boiling ground or rolled oats.
For breakfast, I made a bowl of Oatmeal topped with fresh berries.
Cream of Wheat
A breakfast dish often enriched with vitamins and minerals.
My Cream of Wheat was fortified with extra iron and calcium.
Oatmeal
Oats that have been cleaned, toasted, hulled, and ground.
The Oatmeal in this store is organic and free from additives.
Cream of Wheat
Wheat processed into a fine consistency suitable for a porridge.
When cooked, Cream of Wheat has a comforting, creamy consistency.
Oatmeal
A meal made from oats, often consumed with toppings.
Maple syrup and nuts add flavor to my morning Oatmeal.
Cream of Wheat
Finely ground wheat used to make a creamy porridge.
Cream of Wheat has a smoother texture compared to other cereals.
Oatmeal
A dish consisting of oats soaked in milk or water.
Oatmeal can be enjoyed cold or hot depending on one's preference.
Cream of Wheat
A brand of wheat-based hot cereal known for its creamy texture.
Cream of Wheat is often a favorite among children due to its mild flavor.
Oatmeal
Meal that is made from oats; rolled or ground oats.
Oatmeal
A porridge that is made from rolled or ground oats.
Oatmeal
Meal made from rolled or round oats.
Oatmeal
A breakfast cereal made from rolled oats, cooked in milk and/or water.
Oatmeal
A light greyish brown colour, like that of oatmeal.
Oatmeal
Of a light greyish brown colour, like that of oatmeal
Oatmeal
Meal made of oats.
Oatmeal
A plant of the genus Panicum; panic grass.
Oatmeal
Porridge made of rolled oats
Oatmeal
Meal made from rolled or ground oats
Common Curiosities
Which cereal is high in soluble fiber?
Oatmeal is known for its high soluble fiber content.
Is Cream of Wheat good for iron intake?
Yes, Cream of Wheat is often enriched with iron and other vitamins.
How does the texture of Oatmeal compare to Cream of Wheat?
Oatmeal has a grainy texture, while Cream of Wheat is smooth and creamy.
Can those with gluten sensitivities eat Oatmeal?
Oatmeal is naturally gluten-free, but one should be cautious of cross-contamination.
Which cereal is creamier in consistency?
Cream of Wheat typically has a creamier consistency than Oatmeal.
Is Cream of Wheat a brand name?
Yes, Cream of Wheat is also a brand name for wheat-based hot cereal.
Which has a nuttier flavor, Oatmeal or Cream of Wheat?
Oatmeal has a nuttier, earthy flavor.
What's the main difference between the two cereals?
Oatmeal is made from oats while Cream of Wheat is made from wheat.
What is the main ingredient in Cream of Wheat?
Cream of Wheat is made from ground wheat kernels.
What is Oatmeal made from?
Oatmeal is made from ground, steel-cut, or rolled oats.
Can you add toppings to both cereals?
Yes, both Oatmeal and Cream of Wheat can be enhanced with fruits, nuts, and spices.
Is Cream of Wheat gluten-free?
No, Cream of Wheat contains gluten as it's derived from wheat.
Which is better for a heart-healthy diet?
Oatmeal is often recommended for its heart-healthy soluble fiber.
Can you use Oatmeal in baking?
Yes, Oatmeal can be used in baking for cookies, muffins, and more.
Is Oatmeal considered a porridge?
Yes, Oatmeal is a type of porridge made from oats.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
