Description

Caramel Apple Oatmeal is a warm and comforting breakfast perfect for fall mornings. Made with rolled oats, tender diced apples, and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this creamy oatmeal is enriched with vanilla and butter, topped with a drizzle of rich caramel sauce and optional crunchy walnuts. It’s an easy stovetop recipe that delivers cozy, sweet flavors that evoke the essence of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

Oatmeal Base

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

Fruit and Flavorings

1 apple, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Finishing Touches

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Chopped walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Combine Base 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 and bring to a gentle boil, preparing the oatmeal base.
Add Apples and Spices: Reduce heat to a simmer and stir in the diced apples, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Continue simmering, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Simmer Until Creamy: Cook the oatmeal mixture for about 8 to 10 minutes until the oats are tender and creamy, and the apples soften to meld flavors beautifully.
Finish with Vanilla and Butter: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for richness and depth of flavor.
Serve and Garnish: Spoon the oatmeal into bowls, drizzle generously with warm caramel sauce, and sprinkle with chopped walnuts if desired. Serve hot to enjoy a cozy, fall-inspired breakfast.

Notes

For a dairy-free alternative, use almond, oat, or soy milk along with vegan butter.
Swap caramel sauce for maple syrup or honey to vary sweetness.
Add raisins or dried cranberries along with apples for extra texture and natural sweetness.
For softer apples, sauté diced apples briefly in butter before adding them to the oats.