Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge is a warm and cozy breakfast that feels like a gentle hug in a bowl. With soft, creamy oats cooked to perfection, tender apple pieces, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s a simple dish that instantly makes cold mornings better. The natural sweetness of apples combined with the spicy warmth of cinnamon brings a comforting, homey flavor that’s hard to resist.
I love making this porridge when I want something quick but still filling and satisfying. The nice thing is you can easily adjust the sweetness by adding a drizzle of honey or a touch of brown sugar. Sometimes I like to toss in a handful of nuts or raisins for a little extra texture and flavor. It’s one of those breakfasts that warms you up and sticks with you through a busy morning.
My favorite way to enjoy this oatmeal is right after cooking, while it’s still warm and the apples and cinnamon smell fills the kitchen. Serve it with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt on top for a creamy finish. It’s perfect to share with family on a chilly weekend when you have a bit more time to enjoy breakfast together. I always find that this porridge starts the day off on the right foot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats give a creamy, tender texture when cooked. You can swap with steel-cut oats for a chewier bite but cook longer, or quick oats for a fast option that’s softer.
Apples: I like using crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji because they hold their shape well and add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. If you’re out of apples, pears make a good alternative with a milder flavor.
Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth. Ground cinnamon works best mixed into the oats, but whole cinnamon sticks make a nice garnish and infuse gentle aroma.
Liquid: Using milk makes the porridge creamy, but water works great for a lighter, dairy-free version. You can also use plant-based milks like almond or oat milk for extra flavor and creaminess.
Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey adds natural sweetness. You can skip this or use alternatives like brown sugar or agave syrup. I sometimes like it less sweet, letting the apple’s natural sugars shine instead.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. If you have allergies or prefer no nuts, try toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for texture.
How Can I Get the Apples Tender but Not Mushy in My Porridge?
Cooking the apples just long enough is key. Here’s what I do:
- Add the diced apples halfway through cooking the oats (after about 5 minutes of simmering).
- Cook with the oats for an extra 3 to 5 minutes. This softens the apples but keeps their shape.
- Keep the apple pieces similar in size so they cook evenly.
- Use firmer apple varieties — they stand up better to cooking.
This way, your apples remain tender, juicy, and add little bursts of flavor without turning mushy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – I use this because it heats evenly, helping the oats cook smoothly without sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – make it easy to get the right amounts, especially for spices and sweetener.
- Stirring spoon – a sturdy spoon keeps everything moving and prevents sticking at the bottom.
- Serving bowls – for presenting your cozy porridge nicely and keeping it warm while you eat.
- Optional: a grater or peeler – if you prefer to add apple peel for extra color and nutrients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap apples for pears or peaches for a seasonal twist; they bring a different sweetness and texture.
- Use cardamom or nutmeg instead of cinnamon for a more spiced aroma.
- Top with a spoonful of yogurt and fresh berries for added brightness and freshness.
- Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins during cooking for extra chewy sweetness.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups water (or milk for creamier texture)
- 1 medium apple, diced (keep some skin on for color)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks (for garnish, optional)
- Splash of milk or cream (optional, to serve)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes in total. You’ll spend 5-7 minutes cooking the oats, plus a few minutes to prepare the apples and toppings. It’s a quick and easy breakfast you can have anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Cooking the Oats:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a gentle boil. Add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors. Stir in the rolled oats, lower the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so the oats don’t stick.
2. Add Apples and Cinnamon:
Add the diced apple and ground cinnamon to the pot. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes. This will soften the apples while keeping their shape and allow the cinnamon flavor to mix into the oats beautifully.
3. Sweeten and Serve:
If you like it sweeter, stir in the maple syrup or honey now. Once everything is creamy and cooked through, remove from heat and spoon the porridge into bowls.
4. Add Toppings and Enjoy:
Top your porridge with extra diced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and chopped nuts to add crunch. For a special touch, garnish with cinnamon sticks. Serve warm with a splash of milk or cream if you like it creamier. Enjoy your cozy, comforting breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Apples Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just thaw frozen apples before adding them to the porridge. You can quickly thaw them in the microwave or let them sit at room temperature for a bit. Be mindful that frozen apples may release more liquid, so you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I Make This Oatmeal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the porridge and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, stir well and add a little extra liquid to restore the creamy consistency.
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Definitely! You can substitute maple syrup or honey with brown sugar, agave syrup, or even a little coconut sugar. Adjust to your taste preferences.
