Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Quick oats will cook much faster, requiring only about 1-2 minutes after adding to the apples. The texture will be softer and less chewy than with rolled oats, but still delicious!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they're often processed in facilities that also handle wheat, so certification is important for those with celiac disease or serious gluten sensitivity.

Can I make this ahead for the entire week?

Absolutely! This oatmeal is perfect for meal prep. Make a batch on Sunday, divide into containers, and refrigerate. You'll have breakfast ready for 3-4 days. The oatmeal will thicken as it sits, so add a splash of milk when reheating.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is nearly vegan already! Simply use coconut oil instead of butter, and ensure your brown sugar is vegan (some brands use bone char in processing). All other ingredients are plant-based, making this an easy vegan breakfast option.

One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe

Name: One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter or coconut oil; 1 Tablespoon light brown sugar; 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, peeled and diced; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 2 cups unsweetened almond milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

This One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a breakfast game-changer that transforms ordinary morning oats into a cozy, apple pie-inspired treat. Ready in just 20 minutes, this heartwarming dish combines tender caramelized apples with warming spices and creamy oats for a nutritious breakfast that feels like dessert. Perfect for busy mornings when you want something wholesome yet indulgent!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Fast: From start to finish in just 20 minutes – perfect for those rushed weekday mornings when you still want something homemade.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor as the ingredients meld beautifully together.
Customizable Comfort: This recipe serves as a fantastic base that you can easily adapt based on what’s in your pantry or your family’s preferences.
Nutritious and Delicious: Combines the staying power of oats with the natural sweetness of apples for a breakfast that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Unsalted Butter or Coconut Oil: Creates a rich base for caramelizing the apples; coconut oil adds a subtle tropical note if you prefer that flavor profile.
Light Brown Sugar: Just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples without making the dish too sweet.
Honey Crisp Apples: These provide the perfect balance of sweetness and structure, holding their shape while becoming tender. The star of the show!
Ground Cinnamon: The essential warming spice that pairs perfectly with apples, giving that classic fall flavor we all crave.
Ground Nutmeg: Adds depth and complexity to the spice profile – a little goes a long way!
Old Fashioned Rolled Oats: These provide a hearty texture that stands up to cooking while maintaining some chew. The foundation of our breakfast.
Unsweetened Almond Milk: Creates creaminess without dairy; its subtle nutty flavor complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out all the flavors with its aromatic sweetness, bridging the fruit and spices.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Make It Your Own

Berry Good: Swap half the apples for fresh or frozen berries for a mixed fruit version.
Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds during the last minute of cooking for extra texture and protein.
Tropical Twist: Replace apples with diced pears and add shredded coconut and a dash of cardamom.
Extra Protein: Stir in 2 tablespoons of nut butter or a scoop of protein powder after cooking for a more filling breakfast.
Milk Options: Works beautifully with any milk – try coconut milk for richness or oat milk for extra creaminess.

How to Make One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Step 1: Caramelize the Apples

In a 4-quart pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter or coconut oil. Add brown sugar, diced apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir frequently until the apples become tender and slightly caramelized, about 2-3 minutes. The kitchen will start smelling like apple pie!

Step 2: Add Oats and Liquid

Add the rolled oats, almond milk, and vanilla extract to the pot with the apple mixture. Give everything a good stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid but are still creamy.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and let stand for a minute. The oatmeal will continue to thicken slightly. Serve warm with optional toppings like chopped walnuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, and an extra splash of milk if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Apple Selection: While Honeycrisp apples are recommended, Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady varieties work wonderfully too. Choose firmer apples that will hold their shape when cooked.
Texture Control: For creamier oatmeal, add an extra splash of milk. For thicker oatmeal, let it stand a few minutes longer before serving.
Dice Size Matters: Cut apples into uniform, small-to-medium dice (about 1/2 inch) for the best texture and even cooking.
Don’t Rush the Caramelization: Those 2-3 minutes of cooking the apples with sugar and spices develop incredible flavor – resist the urge to rush this step!
Stir Occasionally: Once you add the oats and milk, stir gently but regularly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This oatmeal stands beautifully on its own but can be elevated with thoughtful toppings and sides:

Classic Toppings: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, and an extra splash of almond milk create the perfect finishing touch.
Fruit Additions: Fresh apple slices, banana coins, or a handful of berries add freshness and visual appeal.
Protein Boost: Serve with a side of Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg for a more substantial breakfast.
Weekend Indulgence: For special mornings, add a small dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop beautifully overnight, making this perfect for meal prep.

Freezing

Portion cooled oatmeal into freezer-safe containers or silicone muffin cups. Freeze for up to 3 months for convenient single servings.

Reheating

Refrigerated oatmeal: Add a splash of milk and reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, warm gently on the stovetop with a little extra liquid.

Frozen oatmeal: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave’s defrost function before reheating with additional liquid as needed.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Quick oats will cook much faster, requiring only about 1-2 minutes after adding to the apples. The texture will be softer and less chewy than with rolled oats, but still delicious!
Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they’re often processed in facilities that also handle wheat, so certification is important for those with celiac disease or serious gluten sensitivity.
Can I make this ahead for the entire week?

Absolutely! This oatmeal is perfect for meal prep. Make a batch on Sunday, divide into containers, and refrigerate. You’ll have breakfast ready for 3-4 days. The oatmeal will thicken as it sits, so add a splash of milk when reheating.
How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is nearly vegan already! Simply use coconut oil instead of butter, and ensure your brown sugar is vegan (some brands use bone char in processing). All other ingredients are plant-based, making this an easy vegan breakfast option.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal strikes that perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent – it’s the breakfast equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly morning. What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into something that feels special in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re rushing off to work or enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast, this adaptable recipe delivers comfort in every spoonful. Try it tomorrow morning – your future self will thank you!