Cinnamon Apple Pie Oatmeal (Printable Page)

# What You Need:

→ Oats & Liquid

01 - 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
03 - 1/2 cup water
04 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Apples

05 - 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced
06 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
07 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
08 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
09 - Pinch of salt

→ Toppings (optional)

10 - 2 tablespoons chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
11 - Extra cinnamon, for sprinkling
12 - Maple syrup or honey, to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the apples are soft and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 - In a separate medium saucepan, combine oats, milk, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
03 - Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for 7–10 minutes until the oats are creamy and tender.
04 - Stir in half of the cooked cinnamon apples. Cook for 1–2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
05 - Divide the oatmeal between two bowls. Top with the remaining cinnamon apples, toasted nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey if desired.

# Helpful Tips:

01 - For added texture, use half rolled oats and half steel-cut oats (increase liquid and cooking time if using steel-cut).
02 - Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work particularly well.
03 - Substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free version.
04 - Stir in raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
05 - Excellent paired with a hot cup of chai or black tea.