Description
This comforting Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal features creamy rolled oats simmered with warm cinnamon and sweet maple syrup, topped with tender caramelized apples and crunchy toasted walnuts. A perfect cozy breakfast that combines wholesome oats with natural sweetness and a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Scale
Oatmeal
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (or water for a lighter version)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Caramelized Apples
- 1 large apple, sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Toppings
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted (optional)
- Extra cinnamon for dusting
- Drizzle of maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Oatmeal: In a medium saucepan, bring the milk (or water) to a boil over medium heat.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the oats, cinnamon, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the oatmeal simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until thick and creamy. Remove from heat.
- Caramelize the Apples: In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook Apples: Add the apple slices, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized.
- Toast the Walnuts (Optional): If desired, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden.
- Assemble: Divide the cooked oatmeal into bowls.
- Add Toppings: Top each bowl with caramelized apples and toasted walnuts.
- Serve: Drizzle with extra maple syrup or honey if desired, and dust with a bit more cinnamon.
Notes
- You can substitute water for milk to make this recipe lighter or dairy-free if using plant-based milk.
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup and plant-based milk and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for caramelizing apples.
- Granny Smith apples offer a tart flavor, while Honeycrisp apples provide more sweetness; choose based on your preference.
- To add extra texture, consider sprinkling additional nuts or seeds on top.
- Leftover oatmeal can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of milk or water.
