Caramelized Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal

Is there anything better than a warm, hearty bowl of oatmeal to kick off a chilly morning? This oatmeal is the perfect way to celebrate fall flavors, but who’s going to stop you from enjoying it year-round? The caramelized apple garnish makes this dish an indulgence for which you won’t mind jumping out of bed. It’s made by cooking diced apples in butter with a hint of cinnamon and a splash of maple syrup (or brown sugar). The result? Tender, golden apples that practically melt in your mouth and bring a burst of autumnal sweetness to every bite.

You’ve got the creamy oats as the base, made even silkier by cooking them in milk (or a mix of milk and water). Then, the soft, caramelized apples add a burst of juicy sweetness. Top it off with crunchy nuts like walnuts or pecans for that much-needed textural contrast. Every spoonful has a bit of everything: smooth, soft, and crunchy!

The cinnamon is warm, aromatic, and instantly comforting. Cinnamon plays a double role in this oatmeal—first mixed into the oats and then sprinkled into the caramelized apples. If you're a cinnamon fan, this dish will have your kitchen smelling like a spiced wonderland in no time.

This bowl is also super customizable, so feel free to add extra ingredients based on your vibe. Looking to boost your fiber intake? Toss in some chia seeds or flaxseeds. Craving a bit of richness? Add a spoonful of almond butter or peanut butter, which also plays beautifully with the apple-cinnamon combo. Want a little more crunch? Chopped walnuts or pecans will do the trick. And hey, if your sweet tooth’s still not satisfied, an extra drizzle of maple syrup won’t hurt!

One of the best things about this oatmeal is its easy throw together. Even if you’re running out the door, you can have this comforting breakfast ready in no time—especially if you caramelize the apples ahead of time. It’s one of those meals that tastes like you put a ton of effort into it, but it’s surprisingly simple.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just need something fast but satisfying, this recipe is a go-to. It’s like autumn in a bowl, and it’ll make you feel like you’re wrapped in a fuzzy blanket—even if you’ve got a whole day ahead of you.

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breakfast

American

Yield: 2

Author: Erika Barnett

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Caramelized Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 15 MinTotal time: 20 Min

This Caramelized Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal is a cozy, comforting breakfast perfect for fall. Creamy oats are infused with cinnamon and topped with tender caramelized apples cooked in butter, cinnamon, and maple syrup, creating a deliciously sweet and spiced bowl. Add a crunchy nut topping or a drizzle of nut butter for extra indulgence!

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Ingredients

Oatmeal

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 cups milk (or water, or a mix of both)
• ½ large apple (any sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Gala), diced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional for extra sweetness)
• 1 tbsp chia seeds or ground flaxseed (optional for added fiber)
• pinch of salt

Caramelized Apple Garnish

• ½ large apple, diced
• 1 tbsp butter
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
• pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

• 1 tbsp almond butter or peanut butter
• handful of walnuts or pecans, chopped
• drizzle of maple syrup or honey
• additional cinnamon for sprinkling

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the milk (or water) to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Stir in the oats, diced apple, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat to medium-low.
3. Let the oats cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and the apples are soft.
4. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add the sliced apples, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples are soft and slightly golden.
6. Stir in the maple syrup or brown sugar and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the apples to caramelize and become sticky.
7. Once the oatmeal is done, stir in the maple syrup (or honey) and chia seeds (if using).
8. Divide the oatmeal into bowls.
9. Top with a spoonful of almond butter, a sprinkle of nuts, an extra dash of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

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