Apple Oatmeal Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

This creamy apple cinnamon oatmeal is a delicious and warm breakfast, perfect for chilly mornings. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and hearty oats will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup chopped fresh apple (with skin)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 cup quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• teaspoon salt

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped apple and brown sugar to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the apples soften and begin to caramelize slightly.
3. Stir in the oats, apple cider, milk, ground cinnamon, and salt. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for approximately 3 minutes until the oatmeal thickens and becomes creamy.
4. Once the oatmeal reaches a creamy consistency, remove the pan from the heat.
5. Serve hot and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	468
Total Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	40mg
Sodium	443mg
Total Carbohydrate	72g
Dietary Fiber	7g
Total Sugars	39g
Protein	10g
Vitamin C	3mg
Calcium	205mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	420mg

Note: The nutrition facts are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your specific calorie needs. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or a registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Description: This apple oatmeal is simple, sweet, and filling--a great way to use fresh apples and apple cider during fall.

History and Origins

The origins of oatmeal date back to ancient times, with oats being one of the earliest cultivated grains. Oatmeal as a dish has long been a staple in many cultures, especially in Northern Europe and Scotland. However, the combination of oatmeal with apples and spices, such as cinnamon, is a more modern take that became popular during the 20th century as health-conscious eating habits emerged. The addition of apple cider or fresh apples offers a warm, comforting, and seasonal variation that is particularly loved in the fall months.

Regional Variations

While oatmeal is a common dish throughout the world, regional variations exist in its preparation. In the United States, apple oatmeal is particularly popular in the Northeast, where apples are abundant. It is common to pair this dish with apple cider, a regional specialty in many New England states. In Europe, oatmeal is typically served in a simpler form, often without the addition of fruits or spices, but in the U.S., creative adaptations such as apple oatmeal have become a go-to breakfast choice, especially around the autumn season.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Apple oatmeal stands out from other similar breakfast porridges due to its specific combination of flavors. While regular oatmeal can be made with just oats, water, and a pinch of salt, apple oatmeal includes fresh apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon, which infuse the dish with natural sweetness and warmth. This sets it apart from more traditional savory oatmeals or the plain, unsweetened versions that are often served in other parts of the world. The addition of apple cider or milk adds creaminess and depth to the flavor, making it a more indulgent yet nutritious option compared to regular oatmeal or other grain-based porridges.

Where Is It Usually Served?

Apple oatmeal is most commonly served in North America and parts of Europe, especially in the fall and winter months when apples are in season. It is often featured on breakfast menus in cafes, diners, and restaurants, particularly those that specialize in comfort food or seasonal offerings. This dish is also a favorite in households, particularly during the colder months, where the warm, hearty meal is a welcome start to the day. Additionally, apple oatmeal is a frequent offering at holiday brunches and breakfast gatherings, as it brings a festive touch to morning meals.

Interesting Facts

• Oats have been used for over 2,000 years, originally as animal feed before they became popular as a human food source.
• Apples are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world, and they are often paired with oatmeal due to their natural sweetness and health benefits.
• Adding apple cider to oatmeal is a fun and flavorful way to introduce the essence of fall into your breakfast routine.
• Oatmeal itself is considered one of the healthiest breakfast options due to its high fiber content, which helps regulate digestion and maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
• The use of cinnamon in apple oatmeal not only enhances flavor but also adds antioxidant properties, which are beneficial for health.

Conclusion

Apple oatmeal is a delicious and nutritious dish that blends the comforting qualities of oatmeal with the sweetness of apples and spices. It is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for those looking for a warm and hearty breakfast. Whether you enjoy it with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of nuts, this dish will make you feel cozy and energized for the day ahead.

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