Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
Make creamy apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge at home with this easy recipe. Topped with sautéed apples and warm spices—perfect for gluten-free fall breakfasts!
There’s something about a steaming bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge on a crisp fall morning that just makes everything feel right in the world. Well, I discovered this recipe during one of those chaotic mornings when I needed something nourishing, comforting, and absolutely delicious—and that’s exactly what this apple cinnamon oatmeal bowl delivers.
The beauty of this oatmeal fall recipe is that it tastes indulgent and decadent, like you’re treating yourself, but it’s actually packed with wholesome ingredients that’ll keep you satisfied until lunch. The combination of creamy oats, sautéed apples with caramelized edges, and warm spices creates layers of flavor and texture that make breakfast feel like a special occasion—not just something you rush through.
What I love most is how this healthy recipe with cinnamon brings people together. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this simple healthy fall meal reminds us that nourishing food can absolutely be joyful too.
Table of Contents
Ingredients For Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
| For the Oatmeal | Amount |
|---|---|
| Thick-cut rolled oats, organic | 1 cup |
| Almond milk | 3 cups |
| Sweetened condensed milk | ½ cup |
| Pure maple syrup | 2–3 tbsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Apple pie spice | 1–2 tsp |
| Sea salt | Pinch |
| For the Sautéed Apples Topping | Amount |
|---|---|
| Organic apples, sliced | 1 |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Organic brown sugar | ¼ cup |
| Apple pie spice | 1 tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Sea salt | Pinch |
| Optional Garnish | Amount |
|---|---|
| Toasted walnuts or pecans | To taste |
| Apple pie spice sprinkle | To taste |
| Crumble topping | To taste |
| Granola | To taste |
Instructions For Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
Step 1: Start Your Oatmeal Base
Add the rolled oats and almond milk to a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until everything combines smoothly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally for 8–10 minutes. At the halfway point, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and keep simmering until the oats become thick, swollen, and gorgeously fluffy.
Step 2: Finish the Oatmeal
Once your oats have simmered, stir in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and apple pie spice blend, letting everything bubble together for another 1–2 minutes. The oatmeal should look creamy with just a little liquid remaining—this creates that silky, luxurious texture that makes apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge so irresistible. Remove from heat and set aside while you prepare the apples.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
In a medium 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat, add the unsalted butter and let it melt until it’s foaming gently. Add the brown sugar, apple pie spice, and vanilla extract, stirring everything together until combined and it begins to bubble slightly—this takes about 1–2 minutes. The butter-sugar mixture should smell absolutely divine, like fall in a pan.
Step 4: Cook the Apples
Add your sliced apples to the skillet and toss them gently until they’re completely coated with that buttery, spiced mixture. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples turn tender and the sauce thickens into a glossy coating. You’ll notice the apples releasing their natural juices while the edges caramelize slightly—this is exactly what you want for those bursts of sweet, tart flavor.
Step 5: Plate and Garnish
Remove your sautéed apples from heat and let them cool for a moment so they won’t be scorching hot. Portion your creamy oatmeal bowl into serving bowls, then generously spoon those beautiful sautéed apples and all their spiced sauce right on top. Finish with toasted walnuts, a sprinkle of apple pie spice, crumble topping, and granola if you’re feeling extra—each addition adds another layer of texture and warmth to your healthy recipe with cinnamon.
Substitutions For Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
Swapping Your Milk Options
Not a fan of almond milk? You can absolutely use whole milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or even water for a lighter apple cinnamon oatmeal bowl. Each milk brings its own flavor profile—whole milk creates extra richness, while coconut milk adds a subtle tropical sweetness that actually pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Using Different Sweeteners
If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk on hand, you can reduce the amount to ¼ cup for less sweetness, or skip it entirely and add extra maple syrup, honey, or organic cane sugar instead. Brown sugar works wonderfully in place of white sugar, bringing deeper molasses notes to your healthy recipe with cinnamon.
Maple Syrup Alternatives
Maple syrup is lovely, but you can swap it with organic cane sugar, brown sugar, honey, or even coconut sugar if that’s what you have. Just keep the amount the same, and your simple healthy fall meal will taste just as delicious with whatever sweetener you choose.
Making Your Own Apple Pie Spice Blend
You know, if you don’t have pre-made apple pie spice, you can easily create your own by mixing 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, and ¼ teaspoon ground cloves. Store it in an airtight container and use it throughout fall for all your oatmeal fall recipes.
Choosing Different Apples
While any apple works, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Gala apples bring different flavor profiles to your apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge. Honeycrisp are sweet and juicy, Granny Smith offer tartness and structure, and Gala provide that perfect balance of sweet and tart for the most balanced flavor.
Check out our easy gluten-free breakfast collection for more morning inspiration, or explore our trusted guide to fall meal planning for seasonal cooking ideas. I hope this becomes your go-to simple healthy fall meal that you come back to again and again!
Troubleshooting
Your Oatmeal Is Too Thick
If your oatmeal bowl turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add more almond milk or water, a splash at a time, while stirring gently over low heat. The texture should be creamy but pourable—not so thick you need a fork or so thin it’s soupy. See the FAQ section for more specific guidance on achieving your preferred consistency.
Your Oatmeal Is Too Thin
On the flip side, if you end up with oatmeal that’s more like a soup, you can either simmer it longer to reduce the liquid, or stir in a bit more rolled oats and let them absorb the excess moisture. Just add a small handful of oats at a time and check the texture as you go to avoid overshooting.
Apples Aren’t Caramelizing Properly
Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the apples, and don’t crowd the pan—give them space to cook evenly. If the butter-sugar mixture isn’t bubbling when you add them, increase your heat slightly and give it another minute to get going before adding the fruit.
Oatmeal Doesn’t Smell Like Cinnamon
If your apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge lacks that warm, spicy aroma, you might be using old apple pie spice that’s lost its potency. Check the date on your spice jar—ground spices stay fresh for about 6 months to a year. A fresh jar will transform your bowl completely.
Storage & Meal Prep
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover oatmeal fall recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The oatmeal will thicken as it cools, so when you reheat it, just add a splash of milk or water and stir over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency again.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the oatmeal base the night before and store it separately from the sautéed apples—this keeps both components fresh and prevents the apples from getting soggy overnight. Just reheat the oatmeal gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, prepare fresh apples, and you’ve got a wholesome breakfast in minutes.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve your warm apple cinnamon oatmeal bowl alongside a simple fruit salad or a handful of fresh berries for added freshness and brightness. A warm cup of spiced chai, coffee, or herbal apple cider tea pairs beautifully with the warm spices and sweetness of this healthy recipe with cinnamon.
This simple healthy fall meal is perfect for cozy Sunday mornings or holiday breakfasts when you want something special. It’s also wonderful as a light dinner—yes, breakfast for dinner!—especially during those cooler months when comfort food cravings hit hardest.
Variations & Dietary Adjustments
Dairy-Free Version
You can make this entirely dairy-free by using coconut milk or another plant-based milk in place of the almond milk and condensed milk, and swap the butter for vegan butter or coconut oil. The flavor shifts slightly, but your apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge stays creamy, delicious, and fully satisfying.
Lower-Sugar Option
If you’re watching your sugar intake, reduce the sweetened condensed milk to ¼ cup, use less maple syrup, and rely more on the natural sweetness of the apples and warm spices. The result is still delicious—just a bit less sweet and perfect if you prefer a more balanced breakfast bowl.
Kid-Friendly Twist
Man, oh man, kids absolutely love this because it tastes like a special treat but it’s actually packed with wholesome oats and fruit. Slice the apples into smaller pieces so they’re easy to eat, and let your kids help add the toppings—toasted nuts, granola, and a sprinkle of cinnamon make them feel like they’re creating their own breakfast masterpiece.
Overnight Oatmeal Version
You can adapt this into an oatmeal bowl that’s ready first thing in the morning by combining rolled oats, milk, and half the maple syrup in a jar the night before. In the morning, stir in the apple pie spice, then quickly sauté your apples while the oats come to temperature—no extra effort required.
FAQs About Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
Can I make apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge with regular oats instead of thick-cut oats?
You can, though thick-cut oats create a heartier, chunkier texture that many people prefer. Regular rolled oats will cook faster and create a softer, more refined consistency—adjust your simmering time accordingly.
How do I make my oatmeal bowl thicker or thinner?
For thicker oatmeal, use less milk or simmer longer to reduce liquid. For thinner oatmeal, add more milk or water during cooking. Aim for creamy but pourable—not soupy or paste-like.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover oatmeal fall recipe?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or water, stirring frequently. Microwave works too—just stir every 30 seconds to ensure even heating and prevent overcooking.
Why is apple pie spice important in this healthy recipe with cinnamon?
Apple pie spice blends cinnamon with nutmeg, allspice, and cloves, creating depth and warmth that cinnamon alone can’t achieve. It’s the secret to that classic fall flavor profile that makes this dish so memorable.
Can I prepare the sautéed apples in advance?
Yes, you can sauté the apples a few hours ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them gently before serving so they’re warm and glossy again.
What type of apples work best for this simple healthy fall meal?
Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Gala apples are ideal—they hold their shape, have great flavor, and caramelize beautifully. Avoid mealy varieties that break down too quickly during cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about starting your day with a bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge that tastes like autumn in every spoonful. This recipe proves that wholesome, nourishing breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated or boring—it can be absolutely delicious and deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re making this for a special weekend breakfast, teaching your kids that healthy food can be joyful, or simply treating yourself to something warm and comforting, this oatmeal fall recipe never disappoints. It’s flexible enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand, yet special enough to feel like a real treat.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Medium skillet (10-inch)
- Wooden spoon
- Serving bowls
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal
- 1 cup Thick-cut rolled oats, organic See FAQ section to make oatmeal thicker or thinner, depending on preference
- 3 cups Almond milk You can sub with whole milk, plant-based milk, or water
- ½ cup Sweetened condensed milk Reduce to ¼ cup for less sweetness
- 2-3 tbsp Pure maple syrup You can sub with organic cane sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1-2 tsp Apple pie spice See Notes for homemade blend option
- Pinch Sea salt
For the Sautéed Apples Topping
- 1 whole Organic apple sliced; See FAQ for types of apples that can be used
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter You can sub with salted butter + omit salt
- ¼ cup Organic brown sugar
- 1 tsp Apple pie spice
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- Pinch Sea salt
Optional Garnish
- to taste Toasted walnuts or pecans See Notes!
- sprinkle Apple pie spice
- to taste Crumble topping See Blog Post for How to Make
- to taste Granola
Instructions
- Add the rolled oats and almond milk to a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until everything combines smoothly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally for 8–10 minutes. At the halfway point, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and keep simmering until the oats become thick, swollen, and gorgeously fluffy.
- Once your oats have simmered, stir in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and apple pie spice blend, letting everything bubble together for another 1–2 minutes. The oatmeal should look creamy with just a little liquid remaining—this creates that silky, luxurious texture that makes apple cinnamon oatmeal porridge so irresistible. Remove from heat and set aside while you prepare the apples.
- In a medium 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat, add the unsalted butter and let it melt until it’s foaming gently. Add the brown sugar, apple pie spice, and vanilla extract, stirring everything together until combined and it begins to bubble slightly—this takes about 1–2 minutes. The butter-sugar mixture should smell absolutely divine, like fall in a pan.
- Add your sliced apples to the skillet and toss them gently until they’re completely coated with that buttery, spiced mixture. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples turn tender and the sauce thickens into a glossy coating. You’ll notice the apples releasing their natural juices while the edges caramelize slightly—this is exactly what you want for those bursts of sweet, tart flavor.
- Remove your sautéed apples from heat and let them cool for a moment so they won’t be scorching hot. Portion your creamy oatmeal bowl into serving bowls, then generously spoon those beautiful sautéed apples and all their spiced sauce right on top. Finish with toasted walnuts, a sprinkle of apple pie spice, crumble topping, and granola if you’re feeling extra—each addition adds another layer of texture and warmth to your healthy recipe with cinnamon.
