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Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal on the Stovetop

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal on the Stovetop

A pot of oatmeal cooked with diced apple, cinnamon and a pinch of salt is a warm, cozy breakfast that is ready in about fifteen minutes. The apples soften into the oats and lend them natural sweetness, so you need only a small drizzle of maple syrup at the end. Toasted almonds or walnuts on top add crunch.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup milk or unsweetened plant milk, plus more for serving
  • 1 medium apple cored and diced, peel on or off
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 tbsp pure maple syrup or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract optional
  • 2 tbsp sliced almonds or chopped walnuts toasted
  • 1 tbsp butter optional

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the water, milk, diced apple, cinnamon and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the oats and reduce the heat to medium-low.
  3. Cook, stirring every minute or so, for 5–7 minutes, until the oats are tender and creamy and the apples have softened.
  4. Remove from the heat and stir in the maple syrup, vanilla and butter, if using. Let stand 1 minute; it will thicken a little more.
  5. Divide between two bowls, add a splash of milk if you like it looser, and top with the toasted nuts and an extra pinch of cinnamon.

Notes

  • A pinch of salt makes a big difference; oatmeal without it tastes flat.
  • Firm, sweet-tart apples such as Honeycrisp, Fuji or Pink Lady hold their shape best.