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There is nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of cinnamon apple pie oatmeal on a crisp morning. Each spoonful tastes like apple pie for breakfast with soft apples, creamy oats, and warming spices. This easy recipe is perfect when you want something nourishing and nostalgic to start the day.
I first whipped this up on a snowy weekend and it instantly reminded me of my grandmother's kitchen. Now it is my go-to when I want to treat myself without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: These cook up creamy and hearty and are less processed than instant oats. Choose oats with a fresh date for the best texture
- Milk or unsweetened plant-based milk: Makes the oatmeal creamy and rich. Use whole milk for extra flavor or your favorite oat or almond milk for dairy free
- Water: Helps thin the mixture so it is not too thick
- Vanilla extract: Lends a delicate sweetness and aroma. Try to use pure vanilla for best results
- Large apple: Choose crisp and tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best contrast to the sweetness. Fresh apples will stay slightly firm after cooking
- Unsalted butter: A little bit ensures the apples caramelize gently and adds richness
- Brown sugar: Brings caramelly depth and a bit of indulgence. Light or dark brown sugar both work
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for that apple pie flavor. Always use a fresh batch for maximum spice
- Pinch of salt: Makes every other flavor pop just a little bit more
- Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts: Add satisfying crunch and nuttiness. Toast your nuts in a dry skillet for best flavor
- Extra cinnamon: For sprinkling on top and giving warmth in every bite
- Maple syrup or honey: Adds extra sweetness at the end if desired. Choose real maple syrup for deeper flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Apples:
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for about four minutes until the apples become soft, golden, and very fragrant. Remove from the heat and set aside
- Simmer the Oats:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, water, and vanilla extract. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir from time to time so the oats do not stick
- Cook Until Creamy:
- Lower the heat to low and keep stirring every couple of minutes. Let the oats cook for about seven to ten minutes until they are creamy and plump. Taste to check if you want them softer
- Add the Apples:
- Stir in half the cooked cinnamon apples into the oatmeal. Let it warm together for another minute or so to blend the flavors. Remove from the heat
- Assemble and Top:
- Spoon the oatmeal into two bowls. Top each with the leftover cinnamon apples, a scattering of toasted nuts, a shake of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey if you love things extra sweet
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You Must Know
Some of my favorite memories are making this with my kids. They love to help sprinkle the cinnamon on and it always makes our mornings feel special. The buttery apples are the secret to making this bowl a little love note to everyone at the table.
Storage Tips
Keep any leftover oatmeal refrigerated in a covered container for up to three days. Add a splash of milk before reheating to bring it back to creamy perfection. Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring well so it heats evenly.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of rolled oats, you can use quick oats but the final texture will be a bit softer. For a nut-free version, simply skip the pecans or walnuts and try pumpkin seeds or roasted sunflower seeds. Swap the butter for coconut oil to keep everything dairy free. Both maple syrup and honey make great finishing touches.
Serving Suggestions
This oatmeal loves toppings. Try a spoonful of your favorite yogurt or a handful of granola for crunch. If you have leftover apples from fall picking, dice a couple kinds for a blend of flavors. Pair with black tea, chai, or even hot cocoa. This bowl is beautiful for brunch when you want to impress.
A Little History
Apple pie has long been a staple comfort food in American homes and translating those flavors into oatmeal is a classic move in cozy cooking. Cinnamon is one of those spices that immediately says home and warmth no matter where you are.
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Common Questions
- → Can I use any type of oats?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for creaminess, but steel-cut oats may be used with a longer cooking time and extra liquid.
- → Which apples work best for this dish?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples provide a balanced sweet-tart flavor and hold their shape well during cooking.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply substitute plant-based milk for dairy and coconut oil for the butter to enjoy a fully dairy-free bowl.
- → Is this suitable for a nut-free diet?
Yes, just omit the nuts for topping and check all other ingredient labels to ensure they’re nut-free.
- → How can I add extra sweetness?
Try stirring in raisins or dried cranberries or drizzling additional maple syrup or honey at serving time.
- → What beverages pair well with this?
This oatmeal pairs beautifully with a hot cup of chai or classic black tea for a comforting meal.