Name: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups chopped apple (about 1 large apple); 2 teaspoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; Pinch fine sea salt; 2 cups milk; 1 1/2 cups water; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/2 cup chopped pecans

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple cinnamon oatmeal is more than just a simple breakfast—it’s comfort in a bowl. The sautéed apples add natural sweetness and a pleasant texture, while the oats provide a creamy base that keeps you full for hours. With the warm flavors of cinnamon and ginger, it’s an inviting dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Plus, it’s customizable with toppings like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the apples

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups chopped apple (about 1 large apple)
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch fine sea salt

For the oatmeal

2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups water
2 cups rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Stir to coat the apples, reduce the heat slightly, and sauté until softened.
Meanwhile, in a large pot, combine milk and water and bring to a boil. Stir in rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Reduce heat to medium.
Cook the oats, stirring occasionally, for 5–10 minutes, until softened and thickened to your desired consistency. If the oatmeal becomes too thick, stir in extra milk or water.
To serve, spoon oatmeal into bowls, top with a scoop of cooked apples, and sprinkle with chopped pecans.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 servings.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 418 per serving

Variations

Make it dairy-free: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
Add protein: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter or a scoop of protein powder.
Extra fruit: Mix in raisins, dried cranberries, or fresh berries for added sweetness.
Spice it up: Add nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon and ginger.
Nut-free: Skip the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture. The apple topping can be stored separately and reheated before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the oatmeal in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of milk or water before serving.

What type of apples work best?

Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold up well when cooked and provide great flavor balance.

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Instant oats will cook faster, but the texture will be mushier. Rolled oats are recommended for a heartier consistency.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely. You can cut down on the brown sugar or substitute with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.

How can I make it creamier?

Use all milk instead of a milk-and-water mix for extra creaminess. Adding a splash of cream or coconut milk also works.

Can I freeze apple cinnamon oatmeal?

Yes, portion the oatmeal into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I make it without butter?

Yes, you can sauté the apples in coconut oil or skip the fat entirely if preferred.

What can I substitute for pecans?

Walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds make great alternatives.

How do I keep oatmeal from sticking to the pot?

Cook over medium heat, stir regularly, and use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Apple cinnamon oatmeal is a quick, cozy, and nutritious breakfast perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends. With tender spiced apples, creamy oats, and crunchy pecans, it delivers a wholesome meal that feels indulgent while still being good for you. This versatile recipe is easy to adapt to your tastes, making it a go-to breakfast favorite.*

Lily