Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Name: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 serving(s)
Ingredients: 1 tbsp. salted butter; 1 honeycrisp apple, cored and cut into 1/2-in. cubes (about 2 cups); 3 tbsp. light brown sugar, divided, plus more for sprinkling; 1 tsp. ground cinnamon, plus more for sprinkling; 1 c. old-fashioned oats; Pinch kosher salt; 1/4 c. warm heavy cream or milk, to serve; 2 tbsp. chopped toasted walnuts (optional)

It's a cozy start to the morning!

By Leah PerezUpdated: Aug 5, 2024

2 Ratings

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the pioneer woman's apple cinnamon oatmeal

Yields:

2 serving(s)

Prep Time:

5 mins

Total Time:

15 mins

There's nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal on a chilly fall morning. Starring tender oats lightly sweetened with brown sugar and apple, this apple recipe is hearty enough to fuel entire mornings. The best part is that it tastes like dessert for breakfast! This oatmeal recipe can easily be doubled, so be sure to make a few batches if you have several hungry mouths to feed. Just a few minutes at the stove, and this quick breakfast is ready to be enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee!

Is it better to make apple cinnamon oatmeal with water or with milk?

Surprisingly, oatmeal is better when made with water! Cooking oatmeal in milk can give it a sticky, gloopy consistency. For the creamiest, most tender oatmeal, use a 2-to-1 ratio of water to old-fashioned oats or follow the recommended measurements on your package of oats. Dairy lovers, don’t fret! A few tablespoons of warm cream or a spoonful of yogurt on top of these oats provides delicious richness without compromising texture.

What kind of apples are best with apple cinnamon oatmeal?

This recipe works great with many different types of apple, but if you're buying apples for this specific recipe, choose a baking apple. Baking apples are the types of apples you use to make apple pie! They hold their shape and have a satisfyingly crisp texture, even when cooked. Baking apples include varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Pink Lady, and Gala.

How long does apple cinnamon oatmeal last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this oatmeal will stay good for up to 4 days. Make a batch at the beginning of the week to enjoy as an easy breakfast for days to come!

What's the best way to reheat oatmeal?

Reheating oatmeal in the microwave is quick and easy: Place a serving of oatmeal in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or milk to keep it from drying out, and microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat the oatmeal on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.

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Ingredients

1 Tbsp.
salted butter
1
honeycrisp apple, cored and cut into 1/2-in. cubes (about 2 cups)
3 Tbsp.
light brown sugar, divided, plus more for sprinkling
1 tsp.
ground cinnamon, plus more for sprinkling
1 cup
old-fashioned oats
Pinch kosher salt
1/4 cup
warm heavy cream or milk, to serve
2 Tbsp.
chopped toasted walnuts (optional)

Directions

1. Step 1In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring frequently until the apples are softened and fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove a quarter of the apples to a small bowl.
2. Step 2In the saucepan with the remaining apples, add the oats, salt, the remaining 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the oats are softened, 3 to 5 minutes more.
3. Step 3To serve: divide the oatmeal between two bowls and top each with the heavy cream. Top with the reserved apples and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts, if you like.

Tip: Swap the apple for a pear for a delicious spiced pear oatmeal.