A bowl of warm, comforting Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is the perfect way to start your day, especially when the mornings are chilly. Made on the stovetop, this cozy breakfast combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that will keep you fueled throughout the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is the ultimate breakfast for those who want something wholesome and comforting without spending much time in the kitchen. The combination of rolled oats, fresh apples, and cinnamon creates a naturally sweet and flavorful meal. It’s not only delicious but also quick to make, taking just 12 minutes from start to finish. You can also customize it with your favorite toppings like chopped nuts or raisins, making it a versatile and nutritious start to your morning.
Ingredients
-
1 cup rolled oats
-
2 cups water or milk of choice
-
1 apple, peeled and diced
-
1 teaspoon cinnamon
-
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
-
Pinch of salt
-
Chopped nuts or raisins for topping (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
In a medium saucepan, bring water or milk to a boil over medium-high heat.
-
Stir in the oats, diced apple, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
-
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are cooked and the oatmeal has a creamy consistency.
-
Once cooked, stir in maple syrup (if using) for added sweetness.
-
Serve hot and top with your favorite toppings, like chopped nuts or raisins.
Servings and timing
-
Servings: 2 servings
-
Prep Time: 5 minutes
-
Cooking Time: 7 minutes
-
Total Time: 12 minutes
Variations
-
Milk alternatives: You can use any type of milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, for a dairy-free version.
-
Sweetener options: Swap maple syrup with honey, agave, or a sugar substitute to suit your preference.
-
Add-ins: Add a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for some crunch, or raisins for added sweetness. You could also stir in some ground flaxseeds or chia seeds for extra fiber.
Storage/Reheating
-
Storage: Leftover oatmeal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
-
Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this oatmeal ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat with a little extra milk or water in the morning.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different, and the cooking time will be reduced to about 2-3 minutes.
How can I make this oatmeal creamier?
To make your oatmeal creamier, use milk (instead of water) or a combination of milk and cream. You can also stir in a tablespoon of yogurt or nut butter after cooking for added richness.
How can I make this oatmeal sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, you can add extra maple syrup, a bit of brown sugar, or a sprinkle of stevia or cinnamon sugar.
Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Yes, you can use other fruits like pears, berries, or bananas in place of apples. You can also mix different fruits together for a delightful variation.
Can I add protein to this oatmeal?
Yes, to boost the protein content, you can add a scoop of protein powder, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or some nut butter after cooking.
How do I know when the oatmeal is done?
The oatmeal is done when the oats are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, resulting in a creamy texture. If the oatmeal is too thick, you can add a little more water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this oatmeal gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this oatmeal gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but you may want to thaw and chop them before adding them to the oatmeal. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add spices to this oatmeal?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or ginger to complement the cinnamon and add a warm, spiced flavor.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a simple yet satisfying breakfast that brings warmth and comfort to your morning routine. With its natural sweetness from apples and maple syrup, and the cozy flavors of cinnamon, it’s a perfect start to a busy day. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a way to use up some apples, this oatmeal will leave you feeling nourished and ready to tackle whatever the day brings. Enjoy!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal on the Stove
This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is the ultimate comfort food for breakfast. Made with rolled oats, fresh apples, and a hint of cinnamon, it’s naturally sweet and full of wholesome ingredients. Ready in just 12 minutes, this warm, hearty oatmeal is customizable with your favorite toppings and perfect for a cozy, energizing start to your day.
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
2 cups water or milk of choice
1 apple, peeled and diced
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
Pinch of salt
Chopped nuts or raisins for topping (optional)
Instructions
-
In a medium saucepan, bring water or milk to a boil over medium-high heat.
-
Stir in the oats, diced apple, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
-
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are cooked and the oatmeal has a creamy consistency.
-
Stir in maple syrup (if using) for added sweetness.
-
Serve hot and top with your favorite toppings like chopped nuts or raisins.
Notes
-
Milk Alternatives: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
-
Sweetener Options: Swap maple syrup with honey, agave, or a sugar substitute.
-
Add-ins: For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds, or stir in chia seeds for extra fiber.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Vegan, Gluten-Free (with certified oats)
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian