This vegan apple cinnamon oatmeal tastes like apple pie in a bowl, with tender cinnamon apples, creamy oats, maple syrup, and hemp seeds. Make it on the stovetop in 10 minutes, or in the microwave!
1cup (90 g)rolled oatsor instant oats, certified gluten-free if needed
1 ½cups (360 ml)wateror plant-based milk or apple juice
1applecored and cubed
1teaspooncinnamonor apple pie spice
1 to 2Tablespoons (15 to 30 ml)maple syrupor coconut sugar, brown sugar, or finely chopped dates
¼teaspoonsalt
1 to 2Tablespoons (10 to 20 g)hemp seedsor flax meal, optional
1teaspoon (5 ml)olive oilor coconut oil or vegan butter, or a splash of water for oil-free
Instructions
Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. For an oil-free version, use a splash of water.
Add the cubed apple and cinnamon. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until the apple starts to soften and turn golden. Set a few spoonfuls aside for topping, if you like.
Add the oats and water, and stir. Cook according to the package directions until the oats are tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 3 to 4 minutes for instant oats or 6 to 8 minutes for rolled oats.
Stir in the salt, hemp seeds, and maple syrup.
Sprinkle with extra cinnamon and serve right away.
Notes
If you don't have apple pie spice, add a pinch each of ground ginger and nutmeg.
This recipe makes 1 large serving or 2 smaller portions.
A few drops of vanilla extract add even more apple pie flavor.
A small splash of lemon juice brings out the apple flavor.
Top the oatmeal with a pat of vegan butter, toasted pecans or walnuts, or a spoonful of nut butter.
For a nut-free topping, use toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas.
Add a splash of apple juice to the pan with the apples for more apple flavor.
The oatmeal thickens as it sits, so stir in a splash of milk or water to loosen it.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 to 6 days.