Warm up your mornings with this cozy and delicious cinnamon oatmeal topped with juicy apples! This comforting breakfast is the perfect way to start your day, with its hearty and wholesome ingredients. It's easy to whip up and the comforting aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen and the sweet apples will satisfy your taste buds!
I used to hate oatmeal as a kid unless it was the Quaker Instant Oatmeal with all of the added sugars. As an adult, my love of oatmeal has blossomed and become a more healthy relationship (pun intended).
Making it at home gives me the opportunity to make it healthy and flavorful without having to eat the same thing every day (unless you were the cool kid with the variety pack).
Here's my current favorite: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal—it tastes like apple pie! I make mine quick and easy, no boiling necessary! But if you're a fan of the stove, I've got instructions for that too. Enjoy!
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The history of oatmeal
Oatmeal has been around for so long, it's practically ancient! But don't worry, it still tastes amazing. From the Greeks and Romans to the Scots, it seems everyone has had a taste of oatmeal throughout history.
This healthy whole grain was often used for medicinal purposes, due to its healing properties. In the 19th century, oatmeal became popular in North America, where it was often served with cream and sugar.
Today, thanks to its numerous health benefits, it's the breakfast of champions for health enthusiasts everywhere. So whether you like your oats sweet or savory, hot or cold, you can enjoy a bowl of oatmeal and feel like you're part of a culinary tradition that spans centuries.
Nutritional benefits of oatmeal
Oatmeal is not just a tasty breakfast option, it's also packed with numerous nutritional benefits that can keep you going all day long!
For starters, oatmeal is a great source of fiber, which helps keep your digestive system in check and can even lower your cholesterol levels. It's also high in protein, which is essential for building strong muscles and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Plus, oatmeal contains a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin B-6, to name a few. So next time you're looking for a breakfast that will give you the energy and nutrients you need to tackle the day ahead, look no further than a bowl of delicious oatmeal!
Note: Some individuals may have allergies or intolerances to oats. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to more severe reactions, so it's important to be aware of any potential risks. To avoid these issues, be sure to read ingredient labels carefully and opt for certified gluten-free oats if needed.
Health benefits of cinnamon
Listen up, spice lovers! Cinnamon isn't just a tasty spice, it's basically a superhero for your health! This little spice packs a punch with its powerful antioxidants, which protect your body from damage like a knight in shining armor. And if you've got any inflammation causing you trouble, cinnamon's anti-inflammatory properties will come to the rescue!
Not to mention, it's a blood sugar regulator, so it'll keep those sugar crashes at bay. Cinnamon is also known to have metabolism-boosting properties, which can help aid in weight loss efforts. Plus, let's not forget that heavenly aroma—it's like a hug for your nose! So go ahead, sprinkle that cinnamon on your oatmeal and feel like a health and taste sensation superhero!
Different ways to prepare cinnamon oatmeal
My go-to for a quick and easy breakfast is to prepare this apple oatmeal in the microwave but when I need a big batch for a group of people, I go the stovetop route. Here are both ways to prepare it!
Microwave instructions
- Using a large microwave-safe bowl, add the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to combine it all together.
- Place in a microwave and cook on high for 1.5 to 2 minutes, allowing it to bubble up but not overflow. Keep an eye on it to stop it in case it gets too close to spilling over.
- Stir well, then top with chopped apples and more cinnamon as desired. Easy peasy!
Stovetop instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the milk and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the oats, chia seeds, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, and continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It's ready when the oats have softened and absorbed most of the liquid.
Tips for making the perfect bowl of cinnamon oatmeal
Getting the perfect texture for your cinnamon oatmeal is key to making it a delicious and satisfying breakfast!
One common issue that many people run into is lumps in their oatmeal, which can be unappetizing and affect the overall texture. To avoid lumps, it's important to whisk the oatmeal and liquid together thoroughly before cooking. You can also try adding the oats to the liquid slowly, while whisking continuously.
Another tip is to use quick oats instead of rolled oats, as they tend to cook more evenly and are less likely to clump. Finally, be sure to stir the oatmeal frequently while it cooks, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking. With a bit of patience and attention, you'll be able to achieve the perfect texture for your cinnamon oatmeal.
Ideas for serving cinnamon oatmeal
The base for this healthy apple cinnamon oatmeal recipe is really flexible and easy to create a satisfying and nutritious breakfast with you favorite toppings. The three basic ingredients (oatmeal, milk, cinnamon) are still the same, but I like to throw in other options every once in a while. Here are some great options:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Sliced almonds
- Macadamias
- Chia seeds or ground flaxseeds
- Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc)
- Dairy-free Chocolate chips
- Pure maple Syrup or honey (use vegan honey if needed) for a hint of sweetness
- Brown sugar or coconut sugar—for a delicious brown sugar cinnamon oatmeal
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, banana, raspberries, blackberries, pear, peach, apple)
- Jam, jelly, or fruit preserves
- Pure vanilla extract
- Nut butters like peanut butter and almond butter. Or use seed butters like sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option
- Shredded coconut
- Coconut butter—great for creamy oatmeal with some added healthy fats
There are really endless possibilities! Top your cinnamon oatmeal with any toppings that suit your taste. Enjoy!
Frequently asked questions
Yes! Either steel cut oats or instant oats will also work. Use whichever type of oat you prefer. Steel cut oats are best cooked on the stove. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Absolutely! Oatmeal is perfect for meal prep because it's easy to make a big batch at once and store the leftovers in the fridge to enjoy all week long. Reheat if desired or just grab-and-go on busy mornings.
More healthy oatmeal recipes
Oatmeal may just be the perfect breakfast! It's delicious, filling, and easy to make! Here are more easy oatmeal recipes you should try:
- Easy Frozen Fruit Overnight Oats combines sweet frozen fruits with creamy oats for a truly delicious and healthy start to your day!
- Overnight Oats made with water are quick, easy, and perfect for lactose-intolerant, vegan, or health-conscious people!
- Creamy Overnight Oats with Coconut Milk are chewy and creamy with subtle sweetness, ready in just 5 minutes!
- Snickers-Inspired Overnight Oats are sweet enough for dessert, but a perfectly healthy breakfast option too!
- High Protein Overnight Oats is a breakfast that packs a punch with 33 grams of protein and only 4 ingredients!
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For more delicious and simple recipes check out the Health My Lifestyle Meal Planner!
📖 Recipe
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Ingredients
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk
- ½ tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, to taste
- ground nutmeg, to taste
- ½ apple, chopped, see note
Instructions
By Microwave
- In a microwavable bowl, add the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, and a few hearty dashes of cinnamon and nutmeg, Mix it all up.½ cup rolled oats, 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk, ½ tablespoon chia seeds, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg
- Microwave on high for 1.5 to 2 minutes, allowing it to bubble up but not overflow.
- Stir well, then top with apples and more cinnamon as desired.½ apple
By Stovetop
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add the milk and bring to a boil.1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
- Stir in the oats, chia seeds, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Reduce heat to a simmer, and continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.½ cup rolled oats, ½ tablespoon chia seeds, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg
- It's ready when the oats have softened and absorbed most of the liquid. Divide into bowls and top with chopped apples.½ apple
Notes
Nutrition Per Serving
This apple cinnamon oatmeal recipe was originally published on January 17, 2014 and has been updated on April 15, 2023 with new photos and additional tips.
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