This apple cinnamon oatmeal bowl is the perfect healthy breakfast to start your day with a warm, cozy hug in a bowl. Packed with tender apples, aromatic cinnamon, and hearty oats, this recipe is wholesome, filling, and ready in just 15 minutes.
I remember the first time I made this oatmeal on a chilly fall morning. The smell of cinnamon and apples filled the kitchen, and my kids couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s become a family favorite, especially when we’re craving something comforting yet nutritious.
Whether it’s a busy weekday or a lazy weekend, this oatmeal bowl hits the spot every time.
What’s Inside This Recipe?
My Take on This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bowl
- What I love most about this apple cinnamon oatmeal bowl is how simple yet satisfying it is. The combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon makes it feel like a treat, but it’s packed with healthy ingredients to fuel your day.
- I often use instant oats for this recipe because they cook so quickly, but you can easily swap in rolled oats or even steel-cut oats if you prefer.
- The best part? You can completely customize this dish with your favorite toppings, from nuts to seeds, or even a drizzle of maple syrup.
- This recipe is also a great way to use up apples that might be sitting in your fridge. Plus, the natural sweetness from the apples means you don’t need to add a lot of sugar, making it a fantastic choice if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Ingredients for Your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bowl
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy breakfast. Don’t worry, it’s all simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- 1 cup instant oats (or rolled oats, if preferred)
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based, like almond or oat milk)
- 1 medium apple, diced (any variety works, but Honeycrisp or Fuji are especially delicious)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), raisins, chia seeds, or a dollop of yogurt
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Making this apple cinnamon oatmeal is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, delicious breakfast ready in no time.
Cook the apples:
Start by adding the diced apple to a small saucepan with a splash of water. Sprinkle in the cinnamon and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until the apples are soft and fragrant. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Prepare the oatmeal:
In a separate saucepan, combine the instant oats, milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and cooked through.
Combine and sweeten:
Stir the cooked apples into the oatmeal, along with the brown sugar or maple syrup. Mix well to combine and let everything warm through for another minute.
Serve and top:
Divide the oatmeal into bowls and add your favorite toppings. I love adding a handful of chopped walnuts, a sprinkle of chia seeds, and an extra dash of cinnamon for a little extra texture and flavor.
How to Serve Your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bowl
- This apple cinnamon oatmeal is best served warm, straight from the pot. For a little extra indulgence, drizzle a touch of maple syrup over the top or add a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.
- Want to make it a more complete meal? Pair it with a side of scrambled eggs or a smoothie for a breakfast that will keep you full and energized all morning.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
- If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry, this oatmeal stores beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Give it a quick stir, and it’ll taste just as good as when it was freshly made.
Top Tips for Customizing Your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Here are a few ways you can make this recipe your own:
- Swap the apple for pears or berries if you’re in the mood for something different.
- Use rolled oats for a chewier texture or steel-cut oats for an extra hearty option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add protein by stirring in a spoonful of nut butter or a scoop of protein powder before serving.
- Sprinkle in some ground nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
Your Questions About Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Answered
Can I make this oatmeal vegan?
Yes! Simply use a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk, and swap the brown sugar for maple syrup if needed.
Can I prepare this oatmeal ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can cook a batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat with a splash of milk or water to bring back the creamy texture.
What kind of apples work best for this recipe?
Any apple variety works, but I love using sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. They hold their shape well and add a natural sweetness.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of instant oats?
Yes, but keep in mind that steel-cut oats take longer to cook. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, and add the apples and cinnamon toward the end of cooking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.
Let’s Get Cooking!
This apple cinnamon oatmeal bowl is everything you want in a breakfast, quick, easy, and packed with flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own with your favorite toppings and customizations.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below, or tag me on social media with your oatmeal creations. And don’t forget to check out more comforting breakfast ideas right here on WandaRecipes.com.
Happy cooking!
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup instant oats or rolled oats, if preferred
- 2 cups milk dairy or plant-based, like almond or oat milk
- 1 medium apple diced (any variety works, but Honeycrisp or Fuji are especially delicious)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup adjust to taste
- Pinch of salt
Optional toppings:
- chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, raisins, chia seeds, or a dollop of yogurt
Instructions
Cook the apples:
- Start by adding the diced apple to a small saucepan with a splash of water. Sprinkle in the cinnamon and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until the apples are soft and fragrant. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Prepare the oatmeal:
- In a separate saucepan, combine the instant oats, milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and cooked through.
Combine and sweeten:
- Stir the cooked apples into the oatmeal, along with the brown sugar or maple syrup. Mix well to combine and let everything warm through for another minute.
Serve and top:
- Divide the oatmeal into bowls and add your favorite toppings. I love adding a handful of chopped walnuts, a sprinkle of chia seeds, and an extra dash of cinnamon for a little extra texture and flavor.
