Apple Walnut Cinnamon Oatmeal is a staple at our house. The apples add a natural sweetness to it and the walnuts add a rich complex flavor as well as some healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids. Oatmeal is also super healthy and good for you, so it is a win win!
For my oatmeal, I prefer using regular oats over quick oats. I feel like they have a better source of fiber and nutrition and personally, I much prefer the taste. It is more earthy and robust and less soggy, like many quick oats. It does take a few minutes longer to cook, however, I haven’t had a problem with that. The apples I used this morning are Gala Apples (my kids devoured our box of Pink Lady apples, so this was the next best thing along with Fuji apples).
Dave and I are going on a sugar fast this month, so I kept this morning’s breakfast sugar-free and simple (I will include variations in the recipe). In order to make Apple Walnut Cinnamon Oatmeal, I always start out by boiling salted water (you can also use milk for a really creamy breakfast). I then peel, chop, and add the apples to allow them to cook just a bit longer than the oats. You can add the apples before the water comes to a boil. It’s fun, though totally unnecessary, to try and peel your apple all in one long peel. It takes some of the drudgery out of a boring task. I remember when I was a teenager, I watched “Sleepless in Seattle” with my best friend. In the movie, Tom Hanks talks to his son about memories he had of his late wife. One thing she could do was peel an apple in one long peel. The very next scene was of Meg Ryan dreamily peeling her apple in one long peel. Classic! After watching the movie, my friend and I practiced and practiced, as if it would make us a better wife. Who knows? Maybe:)
Back to the oatmeal…when the water comes to a complete boil (apples and all), add the oats, cinnamon, and walnuts. Depending upon the quality of your oats, you may need to add some more or less. At this point you can decide what additional ingredients you want to add. Some ideas include chia seeds, flax seed, raisins (for added sweetness), or brown sugar. Cook for a few minutes until the oats are done. I always serve my oatmeal warm with some cow’s milk or almond milk.
Here’s the recipe for Apple Walnut Cinnamon Oatmeal:
- 6 c water (for a creamier apple oatmeal, use milk)
- 4 c rolled oats, regular
- ½ tsp. salt
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- ½ c walnuts, chopped
- ½-1 tsp. cinnamon
- chia seeds
- raisins
- flax seed
- brown sugar
- Place 6 cups water into a large pot. Add salt and turn on high to bring to a boil.
- Peel and dice apples. Add them to the hot water.
- When water is boiling, add the oats, walnuts, and cinnamon (add any other ingredients at this time as well).
- Turn heat down to medium-low. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, or until oats are done. Serve warm with milk or almond milk.
