If you’re craving a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a hug in a bowl, this One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. It combines tender chunks of Honeycrisp apples with cozy cinnamon and nutmeg, all cooked together in one pot for an easy, wholesome start to your day. Creamy, naturally sweet, and perfectly spiced, this oatmeal is not only nourishing but ridiculously simple to make, proving that breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is all about keeping things straightforward while layering flavors that sing together. Each item here plays an important role—from the warmth of cinnamon to the creamy texture of almond milk—making this recipe a delightful blend of taste, texture, and color.
- Unsalted butter or coconut oil (1 Tablespoon): Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the apples to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Light brown sugar (1 Tablespoon): Introduces a subtle caramel note that complements the apples perfectly.
- Honeycrisp apples, peeled and diced (2 medium): These apples bring a juicy sweetness and a bit of texture that make each spoonful exciting.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The star spice that gives this oatmeal its cozy, aromatic vibe.
- Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Adds a warm, nutty depth that enhances the cinnamon without overpowering.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 cup): The hearty base that soaks up all those lovely flavors, creating a creamy, filling breakfast.
- Unsweetened almond milk (2 cups): Keeps things light and dairy-free while offering a subtle nuttiness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with a sweet, fragrant finish that makes this oatmeal feel special.
How to Make One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Apples
Start by melting your butter or coconut oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced apples along with the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and become fragrant—this step unlocks those deep, cozy flavors right from the start.
Step 2: Add the Oats and Liquid
Once your apples are tender and spiced perfectly, stir in the rolled oats. Pour in the almond milk and mix to combine everything evenly. This is where the magic begins to happen as the oats soak up the almond milk and meld with the spiced apple mixture.
Step 3: Simmer Until Creamy
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir frequently for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the oats are tender and the texture is creamy, just the way you want it.
Step 4: Finish with Vanilla
Remove the oatmeal from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This final touch elevates the aroma and brings a lovely sweetness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Serve One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your bowl with a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a handful of fresh berries. Each garnish adds a new layer of texture and flavor that makes every bite exciting and satisfying.
Side Dishes
This oatmeal pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy bacon or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add protein and balance. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or some sliced oranges to brighten the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this oatmeal in cute mason jars for a grab-and-go breakfast or layer it in parfait glasses with yogurt and granola for a stunning brunch presentation. Adding edible flowers or cinnamon sticks as decoration makes it feel extra special and gift-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making your morning breakfast even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to stock up, this oatmeal freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight for a convenient, ready-to-eat breakfast.
Reheating
Reheat your oatmeal gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of almond milk to loosen the texture if it thickened in the fridge. Stir well and heat until warm and creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples add a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, Granny Smith or Fuji apples work great too, each bringing their own unique flavor and texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use milk instead of almond milk?
Definitely! Feel free to swap almond milk for any milk of your choice, such as cow’s milk or oat milk, depending on your preference and dietary needs.
How do I make this sweeter without adding sugar?
You can rely on the natural sweetness of the apples or add a spoonful of honey or maple syrup after cooking to sweeten to your taste without refining sugar during cooking.
Can I prepare this oatmeal the night before?
Yes, you can cook the oatmeal ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir and reheat in the morning, adding a little extra milk to refresh the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s effortlessly delicious, comforting, and quick to whip up, this One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home and makes mornings just a little bit brighter. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new breakfast obsession!
Print
One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a cozy and delicious breakfast recipe featuring tender diced Honeycrisp apples, warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices, and creamy almond milk. Cooked all together in one pot, it creates a comforting and wholesome start to your day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter or coconut oil
- 1 Tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the apples and aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the unsalted butter or coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced apples and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly. Stir in the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg, letting the spices toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Add oats and almond milk: Pour in the old-fashioned rolled oats and unsweetened almond milk. Stir well to combine all ingredients in the pot.
- Cook the oatmeal: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally and cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed the liquid and reached a creamy consistency.
- Finish with vanilla extract: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. Let the oatmeal sit for a minute to thicken further before serving.
- Serve warm: Spoon the oatmeal into bowls and enjoy a warm, comforting breakfast. Optionally, garnish with extra cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute other types of apples if Honeycrisp unavailable, but adjust cooking time as needed.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan version.
- For creamier oatmeal, add a splash more almond milk or cook slightly longer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of almond milk to restore creaminess.
