Description

Cozy Caramel Apple Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast perfect for chilly fall mornings. Made with tender rolled oats simmered in milk and water, flavored with diced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, and topped with rich caramel sauce and crunchy nuts. This oatmeal offers a deliciously sweet and spiced start to your day, combining creamy texture with the nostalgic flavors of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

Oatmeal Base

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup milk (or any plant-based milk)
1 cup water
Pinch of salt

Flavorings

1 apple, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 small pat of butter

Toppings

Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for drizzling
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1 cup milk, 1 cup water, and a pinch of salt. Place over medium heat to begin cooking.
Bring to Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer. This ensures the oats cook slowly and evenly without burning.
Add Apples and Spices: Stir in the peeled and diced apple, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. These ingredients add sweetness and a warm, autumnal flavor.
Cook the Oatmeal: Continue cooking the oatmeal, stirring frequently, until the oats are tender and creamy. This usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Frequent stirring prevents sticking and results in a smooth texture.
Finish with Butter: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in a small pat of butter for extra richness and creaminess.
Serve with Toppings: Spoon the oatmeal into bowls. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans, if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the comforting warmth and flavors.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.
Maple syrup or honey can be used instead of brown sugar as a natural sweetener.
For added crunch without nuts, consider toasted pumpkin seeds or granola toppings.
Homemade caramel sauce can be made by gently heating sugar, butter, and cream until thickened; otherwise, use store-bought caramel.
A pinch of sea salt sprinkled on top enhances the caramel flavor beautifully.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American