Save to Pinterest Apple Pie Oatmeal is the ultimate cozy breakfast that tastes just like dessert for breakfast while still being wholesome and filling. It is all about creamy oats infused with cinnamon apples, brown sugar, and just enough vanilla to make your whole kitchen smell like a bakery. Perfect for crisp fall mornings or anytime you crave something comforting.
I started making this for chilly school mornings when my kids needed something extra special. The scent of apples and cinnamon draws everyone to the kitchen every single time.
Ingredients
- Old fashioned oats: Give a creamy yet hearty texture Choose thick rolled oats for the best bite
- Crisp apples: Provide sweetness and tartness Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are my go to for balanced flavor and tender chunks
- Cinnamon: Delivers warmth and that classic apple pie aroma Look for fresh ground for the boldest taste
- Brown sugar: Brings gentle caramel notes and richness Can substitute coconut sugar if desired
- Milk or non dairy milk: Makes oats extra creamy Use whole milk for a richer finish or almond milk to keep it light
- Vanilla extract: Brightens flavors and rounds out the coziness Look for pure extract for the most natural flavor
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the apple pie spices
- Butter: Optional but adds a touch of luxury and makes the apples glossy and golden
Instructions
- Prep the Apples:
- Peel and dice apples into bite size pieces If you love a chunkier texture keep them a little larger Take a moment to pick out any bruised bits and use only the freshest for best flavor
- Sauté the Apples:
- In a medium saucepan melt a bit of butter over medium heat Add apples and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon Cook for about five minutes stirring often until apples soften and begin to caramelize The cinnamon will bloom in the butter giving everything a fragrant toasty base
- Simmer the Oats:
- Pour in your oats and salt then stir to coat each piece in the buttery apple mixture Add milk and mix well Bring to a gentle simmer then lower heat so nothing scorches Keep stirring and cook for eight to ten minutes until thick and creamy but still spoonable
- Add Sweetness and Flavor:
- Once oats reach your perfect consistency stir in brown sugar and vanilla Taste and adjust as needed If you prefer more or less sweetness this is where you shine Add an extra dash of cinnamon if you like things extra spiced
- Finish and Serve:
- Turn off the heat and let oatmeal rest for two minutes This helps everything thicken slightly and gives apples time to finish softening Ladle into bowls and dig in right away Top with extra cinnamon or a dollop of yogurt for a treat
Save to Pinterest I am a total oat lover but the apples are the secret hero here Their tartness cuts the sweetness and makes every bite interesting I will never forget making a big batch of this on my daughters birthday and seeing everyone ask for seconds
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftover oatmeal in a sealed container for up to four days The apples hold their shape well and reheat gently with a splash of extra milk Just warm over low heat on the stove or in the microwave stirring once or twice for even creaminess
Ingredient Substitutions
Steel cut oats can replace rolled oats add an extra ten minutes to cook and a bit more milk Pears or peaches work well instead of apples for summer Try maple syrup or honey in place of brown sugar Coconut oil instead of butter will keep things plant based
Serving Suggestions
Pile on toasted chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch A scoop of vanilla yogurt turns this into a protein packed breakfast Drizzle with maple syrup if you need extra sweetness or top with a handful of dried cranberries for a festive touch
Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations
Apple pie flavors are beloved in classic American baking making this oatmeal not just nostalgic but approachable for all ages In autumn swap in pumpkin spice and a spoonful of pumpkin purée for a fall twist Springtime berries add color and a tart kick Freeze diced apples in season so you always have what you need
Save to Pinterest This Apple Pie Oatmeal brings together all the best flavors of fall in one easy breakfast. Make a double batch so you can enjoy it all week long.
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I use steel-cut oats instead?
Yes, steel-cut oats add a chewy texture. Increase liquid and cooking time for best results.
- → What type of apples is recommended?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well, holding shape and providing tang.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Prepare ahead and store in airtight containers in the fridge for easy breakfasts.
- → Can I substitute sweeteners?
Brown sugar can be swapped with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for different flavors.
- → How do I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy to achieve a creamy, dairy-free bowl.