If you’re searching for a warm, satisfying breakfast that’s both comforting and nutritious, this Apple and Cinnamon Porridge is exactly what you need. Packed with fiber, subtly sweet, and infused with cozy spices, this easy porridge is ideal for cold mornings, busy study days, or when you need something quick but nourishing. With almond milk, chia seeds, cinnamon, and fresh apples, this healthy breakfast option comes together in under 10 minutes — making it perfect for daily routines without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cozy Apple and Cinnamon Porridge
This apple and cinnamon porridge recipe is more than just a bowl of oats. It’s:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes.
- Naturally Sweetened: With apples, almond milk, and optional maple syrup.
- High in Nutrients: Thanks to chia seeds and the fiber-rich oats.
- Perfectly Comforting: The cinnamon-apple combo brings warmth and nostalgia.
- Customizable: Works well with different types of milk, fruits, and toppings.
What You’ll Need to Make Apple and Cinnamon Porridge
• Rolled Oats: The hearty base that provides fiber and creaminess as it cooks.
• Chia Seeds: Adds texture, boosts fiber, and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Almond Milk (or Water): Creates a creamy base without dairy. Use sweetened or unsweetened depending on your taste.
• Apple (Pink Lady preferred): Adds natural sweetness and a soft, stewed texture once cooked.
• Cinnamon: Offers warmth, spice, and that iconic apple pie aroma.
• Vanilla Extract or Ground Vanilla: Enhances the sweet and spicy profile naturally.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (optional): For those who like a touch more sweetness.
• Almond Butter: Provides richness and healthy fats.
• Almond Slivers or Fresh Berries (optional): For added crunch or tart contrast.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Can’t use one of the ingredients? Try these clever substitutions while still enjoying your apple cinnamon oatmeal:
- Oats → Use gluten-free certified oats if you’re gluten-sensitive.
- Chia Seeds → Swap with ground flaxseeds for similar nutritional benefits.
- Almond Milk → Use oat milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or even dairy milk.
- Apple → Pears or bananas can be delicious alternatives.
- Almond Butter → Try cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or skip for nut-free diets.
- Sweetener → Agave syrup, coconut sugar, or dates work well in place of honey/maple.
How to Make Apple and Cinnamon Porridge (Step-by-Step)
- Combine base ingredients: Add rolled oats, chia seeds, and almond milk (or water) to a small saucepan. Cover with a lid and set over medium heat.
- Prep your apple: While the oats heat, wash and chop a Pink Lady apple into small cubes.
- Simmer and stew: Once the porridge thickens (about 4–5 minutes), add the chopped apples. Let them stew for 2–3 minutes until they soften.
- Add flavor: Stir in a generous sprinkle of cinnamon, a teaspoon of vanilla extract (or ground vanilla), and mix well. Taste the porridge — add honey or maple syrup if more sweetness is needed.
- Serve it up: Spoon the porridge into a serving bowl. Add a dollop of almond butter on top, and finish with optional toppings like almond slivers or fresh raspberries/blueberries.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Apple and Cinnamon Porridge
- Don’t rush the apples: Letting them soften in the oats makes the porridge more comforting and releases their natural sugars.
- Use sweetened milk with caution: If using sweetened almond milk, taste before adding any syrup.
- Double the batch: Make extra and store it in an airtight container. It reheats beautifully with a splash of milk.
- Add a pinch of salt: Just a touch enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Go crunchy: Almond slivers or granola on top give this creamy dish an extra layer of texture.
Creative Add-Ons and Serving Suggestions
Porridge doesn’t have to be boring. Here are some creative ways to customize your Apple and Cinnamon Porridge:
- Add a Protein Boost: Stir in Greek yogurt, protein powder, or a swirl of nut butter.
- Make it Dessert-Like: Top with stewed apples, a sprinkle of coconut sugar, or a dusting of nutmeg.
- Turn it Tropical: Swap apples for mango and use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Cold Weather Comfort: Add ginger or clove to enhance the warming spice profile.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Use certified gluten-free oats and non-dairy milk.
- Overnight Version: Mix all ingredients the night before and let them soak. In the morning, reheat gently or eat cold for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
Why Apple and Cinnamon Is the Ultimate Winter Duo
There’s a reason apple and cinnamon remain a timeless pairing — they bring out the best in each other. Apples provide natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins, while cinnamon boosts metabolism and offers antioxidant benefits. Together, they create a cozy, nostalgic flavor profile perfect for winter breakfasts. This porridge is also great during autumn or on chilly spring mornings when your body craves warmth and nourishment.
Conclusion
This Apple and Cinnamon Porridge is proof that breakfast can be wholesome, delicious, and incredibly easy to prepare. With the natural sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the nutritional boost from oats and chia seeds, this dish is the ultimate comfort food for your mornings. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping a healthy start to a busy day, or simply craving something cozy, this porridge hits all the right notes. Keep it simple or dress it up with your favorite toppings—either way, it’s a breakfast you’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make apple and cinnamon porridge ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Apple and Cinnamon Porridge in advance. Simply prepare as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to loosen it up. It’s perfect for meal prepping your breakfasts!
Is apple and cinnamon porridge good for weight loss?
Absolutely. Apple and Cinnamon Porridge is high in fiber, which helps you feel full for longer, reducing the chance of overeating later in the day. Using natural sweeteners like apples and cinnamon also keeps the sugar content lower than many processed breakfast options. Opt for unsweetened almond milk and skip the honey or syrup if you’re watching calories closely.
Can I make this porridge without chia seeds?
Yes, chia seeds are optional in this recipe. They add fiber, texture, and nutritional benefits, but you can leave them out or substitute with ground flaxseeds or hemp seeds. The apple and cinnamon porridge will still turn out creamy and delicious without them.
More Relevant Recipes
- Apple Pie Overnight Oats Recipe: This make-ahead breakfast option brings the same warm apple and cinnamon flavors into a chilled, creamy form. It’s ideal for busy mornings and offers the same cozy taste profile as traditional porridge with the convenience of overnight preparation.
- Gingerbread French Toast Recipe: A festive breakfast with similar warming spices like cinnamon and cloves. This dish echoes the comforting appeal of apple and cinnamon porridge, making it a perfect winter morning treat.
- Cinnamon Christmas Bread Recipe: Rich with cinnamon flavor and a hint of sweetness, this bread pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee and delivers that same nostalgic comfort found in a warm bowl of apple and cinnamon porridge.
Apple and Cinnamon Porridge
- Total Time: 9 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple and Cinnamon Porridge is a warm, nourishing breakfast that’s ready in under 10 minutes. Made with creamy oats, sweet apples, and cozy cinnamon, it’s the perfect quick and healthy way to start your day. Ideal for cold mornings or when you need a wholesome boost to power through your morning.
Ingredients
- 40g rolled oats: provides a hearty, creamy base
- 5g chia seeds: adds fiber and helps thicken the porridge
- 250ml almond milk or water (or a mix of both): creates a smooth, dairy-free consistency
- 1 medium Pink Lady apple, chopped: adds natural sweetness and stewed texture
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional): for extra sweetness
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or ground vanilla: enhances flavor depth
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: brings warmth and spice
- 1/2 tbsp almond butter: for richness and nutty flavor
- 1 tbsp almond slivers or a handful of fresh berries (optional): for garnish and texture
Instructions
- Add the rolled oats, chia seeds, and almond milk (or water) to a small saucepan and place over medium heat. Cover with a lid.
- Wash and chop the apple into small cubes.
- Once the oats begin to thicken (about 4–5 minutes), stir in the chopped apple.
- Let the apple stew for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
- Taste the porridge and, if needed, add honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Transfer to a bowl, top with almond butter, and finish with almond slivers or berries if desired.
Notes
- Use sweetened or unsweetened almond milk depending on your preferred sweetness level.
- You can substitute chia seeds with ground flaxseed if desired.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg