These simple cinnamon and apple oats are a creamy, tasty, and super-quick breakfast. Easily customisable with simple toppings to create a filling, nutritious meal.
ingredients for cinnamon and apple oats
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 cup whole milk or your preferred dairy-free alternative
- ½ an apple diced (I prefer pink lady apples for added sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Honey or maple syrup (Natural sweetness)
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (Healthy fats & protein and gives that fall feeling)
- Chia seeds (High in fibre and omega-3s)
- Pumpkin seeds (Good source of protein, magnesium, zinc and healthy fats)
- Sliced banana (Provides potassium, fibre and natural carbohydrates for energy)
- Natural peanut or almond butter (Adds protein and healthy fats)

How to Make Quick Cinnamon and Apple Oats
Step 1: Mix
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 2: Microwave
Microwave on high for 90 seconds to 2 minutes, checking every 20–30 seconds to prevent the oats from overflowing. Stir halfway through cooking to help the oats cook evenly.
Step 4: Combine and Microwave apple
In a separate bowl, mix the diced apple, cinnamon and brown sugar with a teaspoon of water and microwave for 1-2 minutes. Mix every 30 seconds and remove when the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined.


Step 5: Stir, top and Serve
Let the oats stand for 1 minute to thicken. Stir once before topping with the cinnamon apple mix and whatever other toppings you would like. Serve warm and enjoy.
Pro Tips for the Best Microwave Oats (with cinnamon and apple topping)
- Stir the oats mixture halfway through cooking for the creamiest texture.
- Keep an eye on the oats while microwaving, as they can bubble over.
- Use rolled oats for the best texture. (Instant oats cook faster but can become mushy, and steel-cut oats require a much longer cooking time.)
- Dice the apple into small pieces so it softens quickly in the microwave, and add a splash of water to help the sugar dissolve more quickly.
Variations
Add More Protein
Stir in a spoonful of Greek yoghurt, protein powder, or nut butter after cooking for additional protein and a more filling breakfast.
Make It Dairy-Free
Use oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, or your favourite plant-based milk.
Add Extra Fruit
Mix in blueberries, pears, or chopped dates for added natural sweetness. Or use a variety of the above optional toppings for a more nutritious breakfast.

FAQs
What type of oats work best in the microwave?
Rolled oats are ideal for microwave oatmeal because they create a creamy texture without becoming mushy.
Can I make These Oats Without brown sugar?
Yes, you can skip the brown sugar and swap it out for honey or maple syrup for a bit of added sweetness. If you would like some natural sweetness, add mashed banana or a few chopped dates to your oats.
Can I meal prep these oats?
Yes. Mix the rolled oats and salt in a microwave-safe container with a lid. Store diced apple, cinnamon and brown sugar in a smaller container in the fridge, along with your measured milk (in a separate bowl or bottle). When you’re ready to eat, combine everything as directed.
Can I use a different apple?
Absolutely. Other sweet varieties like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work particularly well. If you’re looking for something less sweet, try Granny Smith apples, as they add a delicious tart flavour.
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Quick Cinnamon and apple oats
Ingredients
- ½ cup (120g) rolled oats
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (or your preferred dairy-free alternative)
- ½ an apple diced (I prefer pink lady apples for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (1/2 tablespoons if you’re not into sweet breakfasts)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Bowl 1
- In a microwave-safe bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.
- Microwave on high for 90 seconds to 2 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Let it sit for 1 minute and continue to bowl 2
Bowl 2
- Add in the apple, cinnamon, brown sugar and a teaspoon of water to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in the microwave for 1- 2 minutes stiring every 30 seconds
- Remove the cinnamon apple topping when the sugar is dissolved.
- Top the oats with the cinnamon apple mixture and some chopped pecans, serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- If you would like a vegan-friendly alternative, swap the whole milk for your favourite plant-based milk.
- Add to or swap the toppings with your personal favourites.
