If you’re looking to start your day with a comforting hug in a bowl, the Apple Cinnamon Caramelized Apple Oatmeal Porridge Recipe is absolute perfection. This hearty porridge combines thick-cut oats with warm spices and tender diced apples, all soaked in creamy almond milk and sweetened with maple syrup and condensed milk. Then, just when you think it couldn’t get any better, that luscious caramelized apple topping with a hint of cinnamon and brown sugar takes every spoonful to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s a breakfast that feels both cozy and a little indulgent, guaranteed to brighten even the chilliest mornings or lazy weekend brunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but flavorful ingredients is the key to this recipe’s magic. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s the creamy texture of plant-based milk, the warm spices that bring depth, or the fresh apples providing sweetness and a subtle tartness that balances perfectly.
- 1 cup thick-cut rolled oats (gluten-free): The hearty base that makes this porridge wonderfully filling and chewy.
- 1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced: Adds a fresh tartness that complements the sweet spices beautifully.
- 4 cups almond milk (or your favorite plant-based milk): Creates a creamy, dairy-free porridge base that’s light yet satisfying.
- 1/2 cup condensed milk (or coconut milk for vegan): Brings rich sweetness and silkiness to the oatmeal.
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Natural sweetness that pairs so well with cinnamon and apples.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that adds warmth and aroma throughout the dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A little pinch of nutmeg adds a subtle, cozy depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice: Adds a complex hint of clove and pepper for extra character.
- Pinch of sea salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 medium Gala apple, sliced with skin on: Perfect for caramelizing, offering a tender texture and vibrant color.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter): Helps create that buttery caramel sauce coating the apples.
- 1/2 cup organic brown sugar: Gives the caramel its rich, deep flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Used in the caramel for an extra layer of spice.
- Pinch of sea salt: Balances the caramel’s sweetness and intensifies the flavor.
- Toasted walnuts or pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty contrast to the creamy oats.
- Drizzle of maple syrup: For finishing touches and a little extra sweetness if you like.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Caramelized Apple Oatmeal Porridge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oatmeal
Start by combining your oats, diced Granny Smith apple, almond milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a pinch of sea salt in a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium-high, stirring often until it reaches a gentle boil. This mix of spices and tart apple begins to release wonderful aromas that hint at the comfort to come.
Step 2: Simmer to Creamy Perfection
Once boiling, reduce your stove to low and let the oats gently simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally as the oats soften and the liquid thickens, creating a luscious creamy texture that’s just perfect—not too runny, not too dense.
Step 3: Sweeten and Finish the Oatmeal
Stir in the condensed milk (or coconut milk if you’re going vegan) and the maple syrup. Let it simmer for another couple of minutes so all that natural sweetness melts into the porridge, resulting in that irresistible, velvety consistency that makes you want to dig right in.
Step 4: Caramelize the Apples
While the oatmeal is finishing, melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt, stirring until the sugar bubbles and dissolves completely. Next, add your sliced Gala apples and toss until each slice is beautifully coated. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring every so often, until the apples become tender and glossy with that thick caramel sauce. This step transforms the apples into a sweet topping that pairs wonderfully with the spiced oats.
Step 5: Assemble Your Apple Cinnamon Caramelized Apple Oatmeal Porridge Recipe
Ladle the warm oatmeal into bowls, then generously crown with those sticky, golden caramelized apples. Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans over the top, and finish off with a drizzle of maple syrup if you’re feeling extra indulgent. Serve immediately and enjoy every heavenly spoonful!
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Caramelized Apple Oatmeal Porridge Recipe
Garnishes
To make this porridge truly sing, top it off with crunchy toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add a lovely textural contrast and an earthy note that plays beautifully against the sweet caramelized apples. A drizzle of pure maple syrup on top adds extra sweetness and that glossy finish that makes it look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Although this oatmeal is a complete breakfast on its own, pairing it with a simple side like fresh berries or a dollop of thick Greek yogurt can add brightness or creaminess. A warm chai tea or a rich cup of coffee also complements the cinnamon-scented porridge perfectly, rounding out your morning meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Apple Cinnamon Caramelized Apple Oatmeal Porridge Recipe in charming rustic bowls sprinkled with cinnamon or nutmeg for that homemade touch. For a special occasion, layer the porridge and caramelized apples in a clear glass bowl for a beautiful visual effect, showing off the layers of oats, apples, nuts, and syrup. Adding edible flowers on top can surprise and delight guests, making breakfast feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The porridge will thicken as it cools, so just loosen it up with a splash of almond milk before reheating to maintain that creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this porridge in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Keep the caramelized apples separate if possible, as they thaw better and maintain their texture when reheated individually. To thaw, transfer the container to the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Apple Cinnamon Caramelized Apple Oatmeal Porridge Recipe on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of plant-based milk to restore creaminess. Microwave reheating works too, but watch to avoid overheating and drying out the porridge. Warm the caramelized apples separately on low heat to bring back that lovely sticky glaze before serving them on top.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness and firmness, but you can also use Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter profile. Just keep in mind that softer apples may turn mushier during cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure to use thick-cut rolled oats that are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the oats meet that criteria.
Can I make this porridge ahead and reheat it in the morning?
Definitely. The porridge can be made the night before and refrigerated. Reheat gently with a little extra almond milk for the best texture the next day, and caramelize the apples fresh for the tastiest topping.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply swap the condensed milk for coconut milk and use vegan butter for caramelizing the apples. This switch keeps all the richness and creaminess without any dairy products.
What’s the best way to toast the nuts for garnish?
Toast walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often until they’re golden and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and crunch without needing any oil.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Caramelized Apple Oatmeal Porridge Recipe is one of those dishes that makes you slow down and savor every bite. From the warming spices and creamy oats to the sticky, sweet caramelized apples, it’s a breakfast that feels like a gentle celebration of comfort food. I hope you have as much fun making and enjoying it as I do sharing it. Trust me, once you try this, it may become your go-to cozy day staple.
Print
Apple Cinnamon Caramelized Apple Oatmeal Porridge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Porridge is a comforting and nutritious breakfast that combines creamy gluten-free rolled oats with fragrant spices and tender apples. The oatmeal is gently simmered with almond milk and sweetened with maple syrup and condensed milk or coconut milk for a vegan variation. Finished with homemade caramelized Gala apples and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans, this porridge is a deliciously warm and hearty way to start your day.
Ingredients
Oatmeal Porridge
- 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 (optional)
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.
- Bring to Boil: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, and bring it to a boil.
- Simmer the Oats: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats become tender and creamy, with some liquid still remaining.
- Add Sweeteners: Stir in the condensed milk (or coconut milk for vegan) and maple syrup. Continue to simmer for 1-2 minutes to fully incorporate the sweetness.
- Remove from Heat: Take the saucepan off the heat and set aside.
- Caramelize the Apples: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Make Caramel Sauce: Add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture bubbles slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook Gala Apples: Add the sliced Gala apple to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly with the caramel mixture.
- Simmer Apples: Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the caramel sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
- Remove from Heat: Take the skillet off the heat once the apples are done.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the warm oatmeal into serving bowls.
- Add Toppings: Top the oatmeal with the caramelized apples and sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans on top.
- Optional Sweetness: Drizzle additional maple syrup over the porridge for extra sweetness, if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- Use gluten-free oats to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- For a vegan version, substitute condensed milk with coconut milk and butter with vegan butter.
- Stir oatmeal frequently during cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan and burning.
- Adjust spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to your preference for more or less warmth.
- To toast the walnuts or pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Leftover porridge can be refrigerated and reheated gently with a splash of almond milk to restore creaminess.
