There’s something about a warm, comforting bowl that just makes mornings feel right. This Stovetop Oatmeal with Cinnamon Apples Recipe is cozy, full of gentle sweetness, and perfect for setting a peaceful tone to your day. Plus, the cinnamon apples give it this fresh, tender bite that really elevates simple oats into something special.

A white bowl filled with creamy oatmeal as the base layer, light beige in color and soft texture. On top, there is a thick layer of small, cubed cooked apples, golden brown with a sprinkle of cinnamon giving a warm, spicy look. The oatmeal and apple cubes are mixed with a drizzle of light brown sauce, pooling slightly around the sides. A metal spoon is scooping some of the oatmeal and apples from the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a few cinnamon sticks and scattered oats nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Stovetop Oatmeal with Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Stovetop Oatmeal with Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Stovetop Oatmeal with Cinnamon Apples Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I can say honestly this is one of my favorite ways to do oatmeal because it feels indulgent without being complicated or overly sweet. It’s that perfect blend of creamy oats paired with warm, cinnamon-kissed apples that brings every spoonful to life. Plus, it comes together on the stovetop with basic ingredients you probably already have.

Comforting and Creamy: The almond milk and coconut oil make the oats decadently creamy without cream or dairy.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have rolled oats, cinnamon, and apples on hand, making it an easy morning or brunch treat.
Flavor Boost: The cinnamon apples add a natural sweetness and texture contrast that truly transforms the dish.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the apples in advance or double up the oatmeal for quick weekday breakfasts.

The image shows a white bowl filled with thick oatmeal topped with a generous layer of small golden-brown cooked apple cubes sprinkled with cinnamon, creating a textured and warm-colored top layer. The oatmeal beneath is creamy and light beige, with some visible grains giving it a slightly rough texture. A spoon scoops into the oatmeal, lifting a creamy portion mixed with the apple cubes. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface scattered lightly with oat flakes. Nearby, a woman's hand is holding the spoon from the right side. Around this bowl, there are glimpses of two more white bowls of oatmeal, one topped similarly with cooked apple cubes and the other with a swirl of smooth beige almond butter and cooked apples. There are also cinnamon sticks on the surface near the bowls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient brings something to the table—literally and figuratively. Rolled oats provide a wholesome, chewy base, while almond milk keeps things dairy-free yet smooth and cozy. Coconut oil adds richness and silkiness, and the maple syrup lends natural sweetness without overwhelming the warm cinnamon notes.

Flat lay of rolled oats, a small jar of creamy almond butter with a smear beside it, chunks of peeled honeycrisp apples, a few cinnamon sticks and a small bowl of ground cinnamon, solid coconut oil pieces, a small puddle of golden maple syrup glistening, and a splash of almond milk, all beautifully arranged with soft natural light and warm tones, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Rolled oats: They give the best texture—creamy yet hearty—and cook beautifully on the stovetop.
Almond milk: A mild, slightly nutty plant-based milk that keeps the oats creamy without heaviness.
Maple syrup: Natural sweetness that blends perfectly with cinnamon and apples.
Coconut oil: Adds a subtle tropical richness and helps make the oatmeal silky smooth.
Almond butter: Boosts the flavor and creaminess, plus it adds a lovely nutty depth.
Cinnamon: The star spice that ties the whole dish together with warmth and sweetness.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Honeycrisp apples: Their natural crispness and sweetness make them ideal for softening into a tender, cinnamon-spiced topping.

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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.

Make It Your Way

I love playing around with this recipe, making it suit whatever mood or pantry I have on hand. It’s a great base that invites creativity—whether you want it richer, nuttier, or spiced differently.

Variation: Sometimes I swap the almond butter for peanut butter for a different nutty vibe, and it’s just as delicious!
Seasonal Twist: In the fall, I’ll add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the apples for even more warming spice.
Dairy-Free Substitute: Using coconut milk instead of almond milk makes it ultra creamy and tropical-tasting.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Stovetop Oatmeal with Cinnamon Apples Recipe

Step 1: Bring Oats and Almond Milk to a Boil

Start by combining the rolled oats and almond milk in a medium saucepan. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring everything to a gentle rolling boil—this wakes up the oats nicely. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to avoid sticking or burning on the bottom.

Step 2: Simmer Until Creamy

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking, stirring occasionally for 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the oats soften and the mixture thickens beautifully. This slow simmer is key for that creamy, perfect texture—don’t rush it!

Step 3: Stir in Flavorful Add-ins

Turn off the heat, then mix in the maple syrup, solid coconut oil, almond butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything melts and combines into a luscious, creamy oatmeal. The almond butter and coconut oil add richness that makes this far from basic oats.

Step 4: Cook the Cinnamon Apples

Heat the coconut oil in a separate small pan over medium heat. Toss in the peeled, chopped apples, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Stir and let them cook for about 5-6 minutes until the apples soften but still hold a bit of their shape—you want tender, cinnamon-kissed bites that complement the creamy oats.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Scoop the oatmeal into bowls and generously top each serving with those warm cinnamon apples. Serve immediately and savor the comforting blend of creaminess and spiced fruit that makes every spoonful delightful.

Top Tip

Over the years, I’ve learned a few little tricks that make this Stovetop Oatmeal with Cinnamon Apples Recipe turn out perfectly every single time. Here are my go-to tips to nail it at home:

Low and Slow: Don’t rush the simmer step; giving the oats time to soak up the almond milk slowly is what makes it creamy, not mushy.
Stir Often: Frequent stirring prevents sticking and helps break down the oats for that smooth finish.
Use Solid Coconut Oil: Make sure your coconut oil is solid, not melted, when adding—this helps emulsify it into the oatmeal for richer texture.
Apple Slices Thickness: Cut the apples into small but not too tiny pieces; that way, they soften evenly while still offering a pleasant bite.

How to Serve Stovetop Oatmeal with Cinnamon Apples Recipe

cinnamon apples oatmeal - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I usually top with a handful of toasted chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, plus a drizzle of extra maple syrup if I want it sweeter. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few chia seeds also adds a nice textural contrast and taste boost.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is quite satisfying on its own, I often pair it with a cup of strong black coffee or a light herbal tea. Sometimes, I throw in a side of turkey bacon or scrambled eggs for some extra protein and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special brunch, I like to serve it in pretty glass jars layered with extra cooked cinnamon apple chunks and a dollop of Greek yogurt or vanilla whipped cream—makes it feel indulgent and festive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually transfer leftover oatmeal and apples into separate airtight containers and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 3 days. Keeping the apples separate means they stay less soggy.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the cooked oats before and found they thaw well in the fridge overnight. The apples don’t freeze as nicely because of their texture, so I recommend making fresh apples when reheating.

Reheating

Add a splash of almond milk when reheating the oats in the microwave or stovetop to bring back that creamy texture. Warm the apples gently on the stove or microwave separately and top after.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time and more liquid, so you would need to adjust the recipe accordingly. Rolled oats work best for this stovetop oatmeal to achieve that creamy consistency quickly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is gluten-free. Be sure to check your almond milk and other ingredients to ensure they don’t contain gluten additives.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly by using almond milk and coconut oil. Just ensure your maple syrup is pure and not mixed with honey products.

How do I prevent the oatmeal from sticking to the pan?

Stir frequently during cooking and keep the heat at medium or slightly lower after the first boil. Using a good non-stick pan or heavy-bottomed pot helps. Adding a bit of coconut oil early on can also prevent sticking.

Final Thoughts

This Stovetop Oatmeal with Cinnamon Apples Recipe has become my go-to not just because it’s tasty, but because it really feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple enough for busy mornings but special enough to make you feel like you’re treating yourself. I’m confident you’ll enjoy it as much as I do—give it a try and make it yours!