Using a simple slow decomposition method of nitrate precursors, high-surface area platinum-doped ceria with a crystallite size of 9 nm can be prepared. The catalytic performance of the compound can be tuned by changing the reduction temperature under hydrogen (300 degrees C, 500 degrees C and 700 degrees C). The catalyst treated at 300 degrees C shows the best catalytic performance, being active at room temperature. The materials were analysed using a combination of structural characterization methods (X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen physisorption, high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM)), surface sensitive methods (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), H-2-chemisorption and H-2-temperature-programmed reduction (TPR)) and X-ray absorption fluorescence spectroscopy (XAFS). HAADF-STEM and XAFS analysis suggests successful doping of platinum in the ceria lattice. After pretreatment at 300 degrees C, the situation is slightly different. While no defined platinum nanoparticles can be identified on the surface, some platinum is in a reduced state (XPS, H-2-chemisorption).