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This creamy apple cinnamon oatmeal is the perfect way to start a chilly morning. It combines tender cooked apples, fragrant cinnamon, and natural sweetness in a satisfying bowl that warms you from the inside out. The rolled oats cook gently on the stovetop, soaking up milk and flavors for a wholesome breakfast that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
I first made this recipe on a brisk weekend morning when I needed something comforting but not too heavy. Now it’s a staple when I want a breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: creates creamy texture and balanced richness& opt for full-fat or 2 percent for best results
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: hearty and chewy, they hold up well during cooking for a satisfying bite
- Pinch of salt: enhances the natural flavors and balances sweetness
- Medium apples: choose firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for a good balance of tartness and sweetness& peel and chop evenly for even cooking
- Butter: adds richness and helps soften the apples while boosting flavor
- Ground cinnamon: warms the dish and pairs beautifully with apples& look for a fresh jar with a deep aroma
- Pure maple syrup: naturally sweetens the oatmeal with subtle caramel notes& adjust sweetness to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel and core the apples, then chop them into half-inch pieces or your preferred size to ensure even cooking and tender bites without mushiness.
- Cook Apples with Cinnamon:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and cinnamon, stirring to combine. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften but still hold their shape, about four to five minutes. This step builds the flavor base and keeps the fruit pleasant to bite into.
- Add Milk and Oats:
- Pour in the milk, then add the rolled oats and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together evenly. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Watch carefully as milk can foam and boil over quickly – keeping an eye here avoids cleanup and burning the bottom.
- Simmer Oatmeal:
- Reduce the heat to low once boiling and let the oatmeal simmer. Stir occasionally as the oats absorb the milk and soften. This takes about six to eight minutes. You want creamy oats with most of the liquid absorbed but still a little loose so the final texture is smooth and comforting.
- Sweeten and Serve:
- Stir in the maple syrup to your taste. Serve warm for a comforting breakfast that feels both nourishing and delicious.
My favorite ingredient here has to be the cinnamon. It so perfectly elevates the apples and turns this simple oatmeal into something truly comforting. I remember my grandmother making a similar dish on cold mornings, and that memory always makes this breakfast feel extra special.
Storage Tips
Let leftover oatmeal cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Milk can be substituted with any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy for a dairy-free version. Adjust cooking time slightly as some non-dairy milks behave differently. Butter can be swapped with coconut oil for a different but tasty richness.
Serving Suggestions
Top with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of nut butter adds protein and creaminess. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top for visual appeal and extra warmth.
This oatmeal is an easy, nourishing start to your day that feels both cozy and indulgent.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What type of apples work best?
Medium, firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji are ideal to retain shape while softening with cinnamon.
- → Can I substitute the rolled oats?
Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture; steel-cut oats require longer cooking, and instant oats cook too quickly.
- → Is maple syrup necessary for sweetness?
Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that complements apples and cinnamon, but brown sugar can also be used.
- → How do I prevent the oatmeal from sticking to the pan?
Stir regularly and use medium to low heat after boiling to avoid burning or sticking.
- → Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of milk.