Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

By
Kristina Vanni
Kristina Vanni
Kristina Vanni
An internationally recognized culinary authority, Kristina Vanni is well-known for her recipe development, food photography, and experience as a TV show host.
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Updated on 12/13/22
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

The Spruce / Kristina Vanni

Prep: 5 mins
Cook: 10 mins
Total: 15 mins
Servings: 2 servings
Yield: 2 bowls
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
297 Calories
5g Fat
58g Carbs
8g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2
Amount per serving
Calories 297
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 5g 6%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Cholesterol 10mg 3%
Sodium 191mg 8%
Total Carbohydrate 58g 21%
Dietary Fiber 6g 22%
Total Sugars 33g
Protein 8g
Vitamin C 17mg 87%
Calcium 188mg 14%
Iron 2mg 9%
Potassium 453mg 10%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.)

A warm and hearty bowl of oatmeal for breakfast is the perfect way to start your day. Oats are filled with both soluble and insoluble fiber. They also contain antioxidants. A bowl of nutrient-rich oatmeal contains thiamine, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, selenium, and iron.

This oatmeal recipe also makes for an easy and balanced breakfast. The oats are cooked in milk for added flavor and protein. Diced apple adds even more fiber as well as a fresh and delicious crunch to every bite. There is a just a hint of sweetness added to the recipe by mixing in a tablespoon of brown sugar. This can be omitted if you prefer, or you can use an equivalent amount of honey, maple syrup, agave, or sugar substitute. This powerful breakfast can help keep you fuller longer so you can avoid the temptation to snack before lunch.

If you follow a gluten-free diet, oatmeal for breakfast is a great option because oats are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check with manufacturers to ensure that their products are not made using the same equipment as other potentially contaminating grains. Of course, it is always best to purchase gluten-free products from reputable companies and read food labels carefully.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk

  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

  • 1 medium apple, cored and chopped

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional

  • maple syrup, garnish

  • walnuts or pecans, optional, garnish

Steps to Make It

  1. Gather the ingredients.

    Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

    Kristina Vanni

  2. Place milk in a small saucepan and bring just to a boil over medium heat.

    Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

    Kristina Vanni

  3. Add oats and chopped apple. Cook 8 minutes until thick, stirring occasionally.

    Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

    Kristina Vanni

  4. Add applesauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla, if using. Cook 1 minute or until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally.

    Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

    Kristina Vanni

  5. Serve warm. Top with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of walnuts or pecans, if desired.

    Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

    Kristina Vanni

  6. Enjoy!

    Recipe Variations

    This version uses apple and cinnamon, but once you start enjoying a warm bowl of oatmeal for breakfast, you might want to start trying other variations on this recipe:


    • Diced pear is a great substitution for the apple. It tastes great when paired with ground cardamom and then topped with chopped hazelnuts just before serving.
    • Chopped fresh peaches is another great option. They work well with a dash of ground ginger along with the cinnamon. This version can be topped with sliced almonds for another variation on this classic breakfast.
    • Feel free to get creative with your favorite fruit and spice combinations. Firm fruits work best and you can choose to peel the fruit or leave the peel on for added fiber and a burst of color in the dish.