Description
This comforting Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge is a warm, hearty breakfast featuring thick-cut rolled oats simmered with spiced Granny Smith apples and plant-based milk. Topped with caramelized Gala apples coated in a rich cinnamon-brown sugar glaze and toasted nuts, it offers a deliciously creamy and naturally sweet start to your day, perfect for those seeking a gluten-free and vegan-friendly meal option.
Ingredients
Scale
Oatmeal
- 1 cup thick-cut rolled oats (gluten-free)
- 1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced
- 4 cups almond milk (or your favorite plant-based milk)
- 1/2 cup condensed milk (or coconut milk for vegan)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of sea salt
Caramelized Apples
- 1 medium Gala apple, sliced with skin on
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
- 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Toppings
- Toasted walnuts or pecans
- Drizzle of maple syrup
Instructions
- Make the Oatmeal: In a medium saucepan, combine the oats, diced Granny Smith apple, almond milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Bring to Boil: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Simmer Oats: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the oatmeal for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats are tender, creamy, and some liquid remains.
- Add Sweeteners: Stir in the condensed milk (or coconut milk for vegan) and maple syrup. Continue to simmer for another 1-2 minutes to fully incorporate the sweetness and flavors.
- Remove from Heat: Take the oatmeal off the heat and set aside.
- Caramelize the Apples: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat until fully liquified.
- Prepare Caramel Sauce: Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt to the melted butter, stirring constantly until the mixture bubbles slightly (about 2-3 minutes) to form a thick caramel base.
- Add Apple Slices: Toss in the sliced Gala apple and coat evenly with the caramel sauce mixture.
- Cook Apples: Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples become tender and the caramel sauce thickens to a glossy glaze.
- Remove from Heat: Take the skillet off the heat to prevent overcooking.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the warm oatmeal porridge into bowls.
- Top with Caramelized Apples and Nuts: Add the caramelized apples on top and sprinkle with toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast.
- Drizzle Maple Syrup: Optionally, drizzle additional maple syrup over the top for a touch of extra sweetness.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats.
- To keep it vegan, use coconut milk instead of condensed milk and vegan butter instead of unsalted butter.
- You can substitute walnuts or pecans with any favorite nuts for topping.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup and brown sugar.
- For a creamier texture, soak the oats in the almond milk for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
