Start your day off right with this warm and inviting Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal. This cozy stovetop recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a breakfast that is not only delicious but also simple to make. The sweetness of the apples, coupled with the warming spice of cinnamon, offers a comforting sensation, especially on those crisp mornings when you crave something cozy. What’s more, this breakfast bowl is entirely vegetarian and can easily fit into a healthy lifestyle.
Preparing Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a breeze! Just a few fresh ingredients come together to yield a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for any morning—whether you’re busy rushing to work or enjoying a leisurely Sunday brunch at home. The combination of creamy oats and sweet apples will keep you full and fueled throughout the morning, making this oatmeal a delicious and health-conscious choice.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy mornings.
- Rich in fiber and nutrients, this oatmeal is a wholesome start to your day.
- The sweet and spicy flavor combination will satisfy your taste buds.
- Versatile to personalize with your favorite toppings and mix-ins.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal, set up your kitchen space to ensure a smooth cooking process. Gather all your ingredients: old-fashioned rolled oats, milk, apples, butter, cinnamon, and maple syrup. It’s essential to have everything within reach, so you can focus on cooking without scrambling around the kitchen.
For tools, you will need a medium saucepan to cook the oatmeal. A cutting board and a sharp knife are also essential for chopping the apples. If you’d like to make clean-up easier, have a measuring cup for the oats and milk ready, and consider placing a spoon beside the stove for stirring. This setup will assist you in whisking everything together efficiently!
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- Pinch of salt
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into ½-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Begin by peeling, coring, and chopping the apples into ½-inch pieces. This step is crucial as the size of the apples greatly influences their texture in the oatmeal. Ensuring uniform pieces allows for consistent cooking, making them deliciously tender without turning mushy.
Step 2: Cook the Apples and Add Cinnamon
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped apples and the ground cinnamon to the pan. Stir occasionally to promote even cooking, allowing the apples to soften for about 4 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender but not overly soft, so they maintain a pleasant texture in the final dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the whole milk, followed by the rolled oats and a pinch of salt. Stir everything to combine well before turning up the heat slightly to bring the mix to a gentle boil. It’s important to watch carefully to prevent the mixture from boiling over. Once you notice bubbles forming, it’s time to reduce the heat to low.
Step 4: Simmer the Oatmeal
Allow the oatmeal to simmer for about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time, monitoring the consistency and ensuring that the oats absorb most of the liquid. When it reaches a creamy texture and the oats are tender, it’s ready!
Step 5: Sweeten and Serve
At the final step, stir in the pure maple syrup to add a lovely sweetness. You can serve the oatmeal warm immediately, or let it cool slightly if preferred. A sprinkle of additional cinnamon on top can amplify the flavor and aesthetic!
Variations
- Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost.
- Vegetables: Consider incorporating grated carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with nutmeg, allspice, or ginger for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For a creamier oatmeal, replace some of the milk with cream or half-and-half.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Add dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for an extra layer of sweetness.
Tips
- Feel free to substitute the maple syrup with honey or agave syrup if preferred.
- Mix in fresh berries or banana slices for added fruitiness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 8g per serving
- Sodium: 170mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the oatmeal in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat it with a bit of milk.
What kind of apples work best for oatmeal?
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work best, as they hold their shape nicely during cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely, substitute the whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or another non-dairy alternative, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
You can use honey, agave nectar, or brown sugar for sweetness instead of maple syrup.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal recipe is a delightful way to start your day, combining delicious flavors with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy morning or savoring a quiet weekend breakfast, it’s sure to warm you up from the inside out. The versatility of the oatmeal means you can easily customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Try it out and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who will appreciate a comforting and nutritious start to their day!
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Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal recipe is a delightful way to start your day, combining delicious flavors with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- Pinch of salt
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into ½-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Begin by peeling, coring, and chopping the apples into ½-inch pieces.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and the ground cinnamon to the pan.
- Pour in the whole milk, followed by the rolled oats and a pinch of salt. Stir everything to combine well.
- Allow the oatmeal to simmer for about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Stir in the pure maple syrup to add sweetness.
Notes
For a creamier oatmeal, replace some of the milk with cream or half-and-half.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Protein: 8 g