Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe

Start your day with this delicious and easy Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal recipe, a cozy breakfast packed with wholesome ingredients. Made with sweet apples, rolled oats, and warming cinnamon, this homemade oatmeal is naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey and can be customized with toppings like pecans, walnuts, or a drizzle of milk. Perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or a comforting weekend breakfast, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and hearty start to your day. Learn how to make this quick and nutritious oatmeal in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients

For the Oatmeal

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cups sweet apples, peeled and chopped (reserve ½ cup for topping)
• ¼ cup real maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup apple juice or water
• 2 ¾ cups water (see Notes)
• 2 cups rolled oats

Optional Toppings

• ½ cup reserved chopped apples
• Raw or toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
• Drizzle of honey or maple syrup
• 1 cup milk of choice, divided (¼ cup per bowl)
• Dusting of cinnamon and/or brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples
   Heat a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add butter and let it melt completely, swirling to coat the bottom. Add 2 ½ cups of chopped apples and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Add Flavor
   Stir in the maple syrup (or alternative sweetener), cinnamon, and salt.
3. Cook the Oats
   Pour in the apple juice and water. Increase the heat to bring the liquids to a low boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the rolled oats. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Optional Nuts
   If using pecans or walnuts, stir them into the oatmeal now and cook for another minute or two.
5. Serve
   Divide the oatmeal into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the reserved chopped apples, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, ¼ cup of milk, and a dusting of cinnamon or brown sugar, if desired. Serve warm.

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Tips

• Use sweet apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more water or milk if you prefer creamier oatmeal.
• For extra flavor, lightly toast the nuts before adding them to the oatmeal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Replace rolled oats with steel-cut oats for a heartier texture; adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Swap the apple juice for cider or almond milk for a different flavor profile.
• Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for additional sweetness and texture.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store the cooked oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water to restore its creamy texture.

What’s the best way to peel and chop apples?
Use a vegetable peeler to quickly remove the skin, then dice the apples into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the oatmeal with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast.
• Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for added nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm and Comforting: The perfect cozy breakfast for chilly mornings.
• Customizable: Easily adjust sweetness, toppings, and flavors to suit your taste.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and wholesome ingredients.