Looking for a comforting way to start the day? This cinnamon apple oats recipe is what you’re looking for! Ideal for busy mornings, it comes together in minutes while delivering warmth and flavour in every spoonful. Whether you’re meal-prepping or making it fresh, you’ll love this quick and easy morning breakfast recipe. With wholesome ingredients and a touch of spice, it’s no surprise that oatmeal remains one of the most popular recipes for a satisfying start to the day.
Using fresh apples such as Pink Lady or Honeycrisp ensures the best texture for your oatmeal. These sweet apples hold their shape well during cooking, preventing them from becoming too mushy. If you prefer a slight bite, cook them over medium heat in a saucepan, then reduce the heat just before they become too soft. Stirring occasionally will help distribute the heat evenly without overcooking.
For a perfectly balanced oatmeal, layer the ingredients properly. If preparing overnight oats, place the chopped apple at the bottom of the jar, followed by oats and liquid, so the flavours blend well as they soak. For warm oatmeal, cook the apples first with brown sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon, then mix them gently into the oats before serving. A spoonful of high protein Greek yogurt stirred in at the end creates a creamier consistency and boosts the protein content.
To bring out the natural sweetness of apples, pair them with warm spices like nutmeg, apple pie spice, and cinnamon. These flavours create a comforting taste reminiscent of apple oatmeal and baked treats. For added texture, top your oats with walnut pieces and pumpkin seeds, which pair well with the chewiness of steel cut oats. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup complements the apples without overpowering their flavour, while using whole grains ensures a hearty and satisfying breakfast.
Yes! This is an easy breakfast that works perfectly for meal prep. Prepare a batch in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until warm. If you prefer a cold version, try soaking the instant oats with milk and spices in the fridge and let it sit overnight.
For a crispier finish, cook the apple chunks separately by melting the butter in a pan and sautéing them until golden brown. Toasting chopped pecans alongside adds a delicious crunch. Another option is to bake the oats at 350°F for a few minutes, giving them a firmer texture while still keeping them soft inside. If you enjoy extra crunch, sprinkle the finished dish with nuts or granola before serving.
Absolutely! Instead of brown sugar, rely on the natural sweetness of apple chunks. Mashed bananas also work well as a substitute, blending seamlessly into the oats for a mild, naturally sweet flavour. You can also enhance the taste with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which bring out the natural depth of the ingredients without needing extra sugar. A drizzle of maple syrup or honey is optional for those who prefer a touch of sweetness.
This recipe is a simple and delicious option, perfect for meal prep or a convenient breakfast. If you’re looking for more high protein ideas, you may also like banana protein muffins or a chia seed pudding recipe, great additions to your morning routine!