There’s nothing quite like starting your day with a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal. This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is the perfect way to embrace a cozy morning. It’s incredibly simple, comes together in under 20 minutes, and is packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, fresh fruit, and crunchy almonds. It’s a naturally vegan, satisfying breakfast that will keep you energized all morning long.
Ingredients
• 3 cups / 720 ml water
• 1/2 tsp / 1.5 g ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp / 1.5 g salt
• 1 1/3 cups / 120 g regular rolled oats
• 1 small apple or pear, chopped
• 1/4 cup / 40 g snipped pitted dates, optional
• 2 tbsp / 15 g sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 tbsp / 12.5 g packed brown sugar
• Warm plant-based milk, for serving, optional
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, cinnamon, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Stir in the rolled oats. Reduce the heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the pan from the heat, cover, and let it stand for 2-3 minutes or until the oatmeal reaches your desired consistency.
4. Divide the oatmeal among four cereal bowls. Top with chopped apple, dates (if using), toasted almonds, and brown sugar. If desired, serve with a splash of warm plant-based milk.
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition Facts
• PER SERVING: 148 cal., 3 g total fat (0 g sat. fat), 0 mg chol., 152 mg sodium, 27 g carb., 4 g fiber, 4 g pro.
Pro Tips
• For an extra creamy texture, use half water and half plant-based milk (like oat or almond milk) as your cooking liquid.
• Don’t skip toasting the almonds! It takes just a few minutes in a dry skillet and dramatically enhances their nutty flavor and crunch.
• To boost the protein, stir in a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter or a scoop of plant-based protein powder along with the oats.
• This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions with a splash of water or milk.
FAQ
Q: How can I add more protein to this vegetarian oatmeal
A: To boost the protein, stir in a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter like almond or peanut butter, or add a scoop of plant-based protein powder along with the oats. Topping with extra nuts and seeds also adds a great protein punch.
Q: Is this apple cinnamon oatmeal good for meal prep
A: Yes, this recipe is perfect for vegetarian meal prep. Cook a large batch and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of plant-based milk or water to restore its creamy texture.
Q: What other plant-based toppings or mix-ins work well
A: Feel free to customize this recipe with other vegetarian-friendly ingredients. Try swapping the apple for pear or berries. For sweeteners, maple syrup or agave nectar are great vegan alternatives to brown sugar. You can also mix in chia seeds or flax seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
Q: Can I make this oatmeal gluten-free
A: Absolutely. To ensure this recipe is gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats. Oats are naturally gluten-free but can be cross-contaminated during processing, so always check the packaging if you have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
