Why You’ll Love Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe

Oats bring fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the table, making this a nourishing breakfast.
The combination of apple and cinnamon gives an instantly comforting flavor profile.
Super quick: you’ll have breakfast ready in around 10 minutes.
It’s customizable—swap milk liquids, add toppings, or boost protein to fit your dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

old fashioned rolled oats
water or non-dairy milk
maple syrup (or brown sugar / coconut sugar)
ground cinnamon
vanilla extract
sea salt
fresh apples (diced)
chopped pecans (or walnuts / almonds / pepitas)

Directions

In a small saucepan, combine diced apples, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon. Sauté for a few minutes until the apples are soft and resemble baked apples.
In a separate saucepan, add oats, water or non-dairy milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Bring to a low boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Transfer the oatmeal to a bowl. Top with the sautéed apples, chopped pecans, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and additional sweetener if desired.
(Optional) For a microwave version: combine all oatmeal ingredients in a large microwave-safe bowl, microwave for 1 minute, stir, then microwave in 30-second increments until it reaches your desired consistency.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1
Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 7 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder after cooking to increase protein.
Use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats (note: cooking time will be longer).
Change up the toppings with banana slices, raisins, shredded coconut, almond butter, date caramel, or hemp seeds.
Spice it up further with a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice.
Swap out the pecans for other nuts or seeds, such as walnuts, almonds, cashews, or pepitas for a nut-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Add a splash of water or non-dairy milk to loosen the texture as needed.
Although it’s best enjoyed fresh, reheated portions still taste great. The apples may soften more, but the flavor holds up well.

FAQs

What type of oats should I use?

Old fashioned rolled oats are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly and provide a creamy texture without turning mushy.

Can I use steel-cut oats instead?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid amount and increase the cooking time. Steel-cut oats take longer to become tender.

What kind of apples work best?

Firmer apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith are best since they hold their texture when sautéed.

Is this recipe vegan and dairy-free?

Yes, it’s completely vegan and dairy-free when made with plant-based milk and maple syrup.

How sweet is it?

The recipe has a mild natural sweetness from maple syrup and apples. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can make a larger batch and store it in the fridge. Reheat with extra liquid to revive the creamy consistency.

What toppings go well with this oatmeal?

Try chopped nuts, extra cinnamon, banana slices, coconut flakes, nut butter, raisins, or hemp seeds to switch things up.

Can I make a bigger batch to store for multiple breakfasts?

Absolutely. Double or triple the ingredients, then portion and store in the fridge. Reheat as needed throughout the week.

Will the texture change when refrigerated?

Yes, it will thicken as it sits. Add water or milk when reheating to bring it back to a creamy texture.

Can I skip the sautéed apples?

Yes, but they add flavor and a soft texture that makes this oatmeal extra comforting. You can also replace them with raw apple slices or another fruit.

Conclusion

Apple cinnamon oatmeal is a nourishing and flavorful way to start the day. With tender apples, warm spices, and the heartiness of oats, it hits that sweet spot between comfort food and clean eating. Whether made fresh or meal-prepped in advance, it’s a go-to breakfast that satisfies every time.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

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This apple cinnamon oatmeal is a warm, comforting, and nourishing breakfast packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Quick to make and easily customizable to suit different dietary needs.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Category: Breakfast
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1/2 cup old fashioned rolled oats
1 cup water or non-dairy milk
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or brown sugar / coconut sugar)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
1 small fresh apple, diced
2 tablespoons chopped pecans (or walnuts / almonds / pepitas)

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Instructions

In a small saucepan, combine diced apples, 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Sauté over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until the apples are soft and resemble baked apples.
In a separate saucepan, add oats, water or non-dairy milk, remaining maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Bring to a low boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Transfer the oatmeal to a bowl. Top with the sautéed apples, chopped pecans, an extra sprinkle of cinnamon, and more sweetener if desired.
(Optional) For a microwave version: combine all oatmeal ingredients in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then continue microwaving in 30-second increments until desired consistency is reached.

Notes

Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder after cooking to boost protein content.
Use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats for a heartier texture (increase cooking time).
Customize toppings with banana slices, raisins, shredded coconut, almond butter, or hemp seeds.
Swap pecans for other nuts or seeds to accommodate allergies or preferences.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days and reheat with a splash of liquid for best texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 310
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg