Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is the ultimate comfort food. The warm apples and cinnamon create a delightful aroma, making your kitchen smell like fall. The oatmeal itself is creamy, filling, and perfectly balanced with the sweetness from the apples and the spice from the cinnamon. It’s a nutritious breakfast that keeps you full and energized, thanks to the fiber in the oats and apples. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can add extra toppings like nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of honey to make it your own.

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups milk (or non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk)
1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Chopped nuts, raisins, or seeds (optional, for topping)
Extra maple syrup or honey (optional, for drizzling)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the oats:

In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are soft and the liquid has mostly absorbed. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a little more milk as it cooks.

2. Caramelize the apples:

While the oats are cooking, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften. You can add a little water to the pan if the apples start to stick.
Sprinkle the apples with the ground cinnamon and stir to coat the apples evenly. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, until the apples are tender and caramelized. Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness, if desired.

3. Combine the oatmeal and apples:

Once the oatmeal is cooked, stir in the vanilla extract (if using) and the caramelized apples. Mix well to combine, and let the oatmeal cook for an additional minute to warm the apples through.

4. Serve:

Spoon the oatmeal into bowls, and top with any additional toppings you like, such as chopped nuts, raisins, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Drizzle with extra maple syrup or honey for added sweetness if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal!

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Total time: 15 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes

Variations

Use different fruits: Swap the apples for other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Adjust the cooking time based on the fruit’s firmness.
Add protein: Stir in some chia seeds, hemp seeds, or a scoop of protein powder to boost the protein content.
Add nuts or seeds: Top your oatmeal with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and healthy fats.
Vegan version: To make this oatmeal vegan, simply use a non-dairy milk and sweeten with maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use steel-cut oats, but you’ll need to cook them for longer (about 25-30 minutes) and adjust the liquid ratio (use 3 cups of water or milk for every cup of steel-cut oats).

Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the oatmeal in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave with a little extra milk or water to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

Can I make this recipe without added sweetener?

Yes, the apples themselves provide natural sweetness, especially when caramelized with cinnamon. Feel free to skip the added maple syrup or honey if you prefer a less sweet version.

How can I make my oatmeal extra creamy?

For extra creaminess, you can use full-fat coconut milk, add a spoonful of nut butter (like almond butter), or stir in some yogurt after cooking.

How do I store the leftover apples?

If you have leftover caramelized apples, store them in a separate container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or stovetop to add them to your next bowl of oatmeal.

Conclusion

Warm Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is the ultimate cozy breakfast. With the rich flavors of cinnamon, caramelized apples, and the heartiness of oats, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s quick, easy to make, and perfect for those chilly mornings when you need something filling to kickstart your day. Plus, it’s versatile—add your favorite toppings or swap in different fruits to make it your own. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this oatmeal is sure to become a go-to comfort food!