Name: Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice); 1 apple, peeled and diced; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 tablespoon maple syrup (plus more for drizzling); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1 tablespoon almond butter (optional topping); 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or pecans (optional topping)

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A Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bowl is my go-to breakfast when I want something warm, wholesome, and naturally sweet. This hearty bowl brings together tender spiced apples, creamy oats, and a hint of maple syrup, making it perfect for those crisp fall or winter mornings. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and comes together in just 15 minutes with simple pantry staples.

Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bowl

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup rolled oats

2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)

1 apple, peeled and diced

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

1 tablespoon maple syrup (plus more for drizzling)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

1 tablespoon almond butter (optional topping)

1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or pecans (optional topping)

Directions

I start by bringing the almond milk to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Once it's simmering, I stir in the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and diced apple.

I reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 7–10 minutes until the oats turn creamy and the apples soften.

Off the heat, I mix in the maple syrup and vanilla extract.

Then, I spoon the oatmeal into bowls and add a swirl of almond butter, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, and another drizzle of maple syrup if I’m feeling indulgent.

I always serve it warm—it’s the best way to enjoy it.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and comes together in about 15 minutes total:

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes
Each bowl comes in at approximately 320 kcal.

Variations

There are plenty of ways I change this up depending on what I have:

I swap the apple for pear or banana slices for a twist on the flavor.

Instead of maple syrup, I sometimes use honey or date syrup.

For extra protein, I stir in a scoop of plant-based protein powder or a spoonful of Greek yogurt (if not keeping it vegan).

I like to sprinkle chia seeds or ground flaxseed into the oats while cooking for a nutritional boost.

I occasionally use steel-cut oats when I want a chewier texture—just note it needs a longer cook time.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I simply warm the oatmeal on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of almond milk to loosen it up. It tastes just as good the next day, sometimes even better as the flavors meld.

FAQs

How can I make this oatmeal bowl more filling?

I like adding nut butter, chia seeds, or protein powder to make it more satisfying and keep me full longer.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, I can substitute quick oats, but they’ll cook faster and may have a softer texture. I just reduce the cooking time slightly.

Is this oatmeal gluten-free?

If I use certified gluten-free oats, then yes—this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan.

What kind of apples work best?

I usually go for sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji, but Granny Smith works great if I want a more tart flavor.

Can I prepare this oatmeal the night before?

While it's not overnight oats, I often prep the ingredients the night before or cook a batch and reheat it in the morning—it holds up well.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bowl is everything I want in a fall or winter breakfast—cozy, nourishing, naturally sweet, and incredibly easy to make. I love that it's versatile enough to adjust to whatever’s in my kitchen, and it’s always a comforting way to start the day. Whether I'm cooking it fresh or reheating leftovers, it's a bowl of warmth that never disappoints.

Recipe:

Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bowl

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

A warm and wholesome Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bowl made with creamy oats, tender spiced apples, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup. Perfect for cozy fall or winter mornings, this hearty breakfast is ready in just 15 minutes.

Instructions

Bring the almond milk to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Stir in the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and diced apple.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 7–10 minutes until the oats are creamy and apples are softened.
Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
Spoon the oatmeal into bowls and top with almond butter, chopped nuts, and an extra drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy.