Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge is a warm and cozy breakfast that’s just right for chilly mornings. It combines tender oats with sweet, soft apples and a comforting sprinkle of cinnamon that fills the kitchen with a wonderful smell. The texture is creamy and satisfying, making it the perfect start to your day.
I love making this porridge when I want something simple but special. The apples add a natural sweetness, so I usually don’t need to add much sugar. Sometimes, I like to toss in a handful of nuts or a drizzle of honey on top for a little extra crunch and flavor. It feels like a small treat that’s also really good for me.
One of my favorite ways to serve it is in a big bowl with a splash of milk or yogurt. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you feel cozy and ready to take on the day. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever fruit you have on hand—though I always come back to the classic apple and cinnamon combination because it just works so well together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
Rolled oats: They make the porridge creamy while keeping a bit of chew. If you want it quicker, use instant oats but reduce cooking time. Steel-cut oats work too but need longer cooking and more liquid.
Apples: I like leaving the skin on for color and texture. Use sweet varieties like Fuji or Gala. If you have pears, they also taste great here!
Cinnamon: This spice gives the warm flavor that pairs perfectly with apple. You can swap for nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a twist.
Milk: Dairy milk adds creaminess, but almond, oat, or soy milk work great for a plant-based version.
Nuts: Pecans add a buttery crunch, but walnuts or almonds can be swapped in easily. Toast them lightly for more flavor.
How Do You Get Creamy, Perfectly Cooked Oatmeal Every Time?
Cooking oats gently and stirring often is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Bring oats and milk to a gentle boil, not a hard one, to avoid sticking or burning.
- Lower heat to simmer, then stir every minute or two to keep the texture smooth.
- Add diced apples partway through cooking so they soften but don’t turn mushy.
- Use the right ratio of liquid to oats—about 2 cups milk to 1 cup oats—to get creamy porridge without it being runny or dry.
- Don’t forget salt! A pinch brings out the oats and apple flavors.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – I prefer a good-sized pan to prevent spilling and to cook the oats evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring and preventing the oats from sticking to the bottom.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy when measuring oats, liquids, and spices.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping apples into small, even pieces.
- Optional: Toaster or skillet – if you want to toast nuts for extra flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use pear or peach slices instead of apples for a different fruity flavor.
- Add a spoonful of almond or peanut butter for creaminess and extra richness.
- Sprinkle with a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture.
- Incorporate a pinch of ginger or cardamom with the cinnamon to spice things up.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 medium apple, diced (with skin for color and texture)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted if desired)
- 1 teaspoon butter (optional, for richness)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10–12 minutes from start to finish. It includes about 7–9 minutes for cooking the oats and apples, plus a few extra minutes for preparing and garnishing. Perfect for a quick, warm breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Oats:
In a medium saucepan, mix the rolled oats, milk, and salt. Place the pan over medium heat and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir the oats frequently to keep them from sticking. Cook until the oats become tender and creamy—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Add Apples and Cinnamon:
Stir in the diced apple pieces and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Continue simmering for another 2 to 3 minutes so the apples soften slightly but still keep their shape and texture.
3. Sweeten and Enrich:
If you choose, add the butter and drizzle the maple syrup or honey into the porridge. Mix well and taste—add more sweetener if you like it sweeter.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Take the pan off the heat and scoop the porridge into bowls. Sprinkle with the chopped pecans or walnuts and add an extra dusting of cinnamon on top. You can also add a splash of milk or extra honey if you like. Enjoy your warm and cozy bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal!
Can I Use Frozen Apples Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just thaw them before adding to the porridge to avoid extra liquid. Add them a little earlier in the cooking process so they have time to soften.
Can I Make This Oatmeal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the porridge and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
What Can I Substitute for Milk?
You can use any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk if you want a dairy-free option. Just note that it might change the flavor slightly but still tastes delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container for 2-3 days. Reheat on low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking, and add a little milk or water if it’s too thick.
