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15-Minute Spiced Apple Almond Butter Oats

Linda M. Harris
A warm, spiced oatmeal bowl topped with sautéed apples, creamy almond butter, and coconut yogurt.
High in fiber and plant-based protein, lightly sweet, and ready in just 15 minutes—a perfect quick breakfast or snack.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine Healthy, Plant-Based

Equipment

  • 1 frying pan (medium)
  • 1 saucepan (small)
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Knife
  • 1 Spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Fried Apples:

  • 1 medium apple chopped
  • 1 tsp coconut oil
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of ground cardamom

For the Oatmeal:

  • 1/3 cup gluten-free oats
  • 1 tsp chia seeds
  • 2/3 cup almond milk
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 –2 tsp maple syrup to taste
  • 1 tsp almond butter
  • 1 tbsp coconut yogurt optional, for topping

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Apple for Frying: Name: Apple Chopping and Prep
    Wash the apple thoroughly under running water to remove any wax or residues.
    Using a sharp knife and a stable cutting board, core the apple and cut it into small, bite-sized cubes, roughly 1/2-inch in size.
    Uniform cubes ensure even cooking and consistent texture. Set aside in a small bowl until ready for frying.
  • Heat the Pan and Oil: Name: Pan Preheating
    Place a medium-sized frying pan on the stove over medium-high heat.
    Add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil to the pan and allow it to melt completely.
    Swirl the pan gently to coat the surface evenly.
    Heating the oil properly helps the apples caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness.
  • Cook the Apples: Name: Sautéing the Apples
    Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the chopped apple pieces to the pan.
    Sprinkle the apple cubes evenly with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of cardamom.
    Stir to combine so that each piece is coated with the spices.
    Cook the apples, stirring frequently, for approximately 5–10 minutes until they become tender but not mushy.
    The apples should have a warm, slightly golden exterior and a soft interior.
    Remove from heat and set aside while preparing the oatmeal.
  • Measure and Combine Oatmeal Ingredients: Name: Oatmeal Preparation
    In a small saucepan, combine 1/3 cup gluten-free oats and 1 teaspoon chia seeds.
    Pour in 2/3 cup almond milk and add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon cardamom, and a pinch of salt.
    Whisk the mixture gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the chia seeds are evenly dispersed and the spices are fully incorporated.
  • Cook the Oatmeal: Name: Simmering the Porridge
    Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
    Reduce the heat slightly to avoid boiling over. Cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to encourage a creamy consistency.
    Adjust the texture by adding more almond milk if the oatmeal becomes too thick.
    Taste and stir in 1–2 teaspoons of maple syrup to achieve your preferred level of sweetness.
  • Assemble the Oatmeal Bowl: Name: Pour and Layer
    Once the oatmeal reaches your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from heat.
    Pour the warm oatmeal into a serving bowl.
    Carefully spoon the sautéed apples on top, distributing them evenly across the surface for maximum flavor in every bite.
  • Add Almond Butter and Yogurt: Name: Creamy Toppings
    Add 1 teaspoon of almond butter over the top of the oatmeal.
    You can drop it in small dollops or swirl it gently for a marbled effect. If using coconut yogurt, add 1 tablespoon as a creamy, cooling topping.
    This not only enhances the texture but also balances the warm spices of the fried apples.
  • Optional Finishing Touches: Name: Garnishing and Serving
    For an optional finishing touch, lightly sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the top or drizzle a small amount of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
    Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the comforting combination of spiced apples, creamy oatmeal, and nutty almond butter.
  • Storage and Reheating (Optional): Name: Storing for Later
    If you want to prepare in advance, store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
    The oatmeal itself can also be refrigerated in a separate container.
    Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of almond milk to restore its creamy texture before assembling the bowl.

Notes

  • Use any sweet, crisp apple variety like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust maple syrup according to your sweetness preference; the fried apples naturally add some sweetness.
  • Chia seeds can be swapped with flaxseeds for a slightly different texture and nutritional boost.
  • For creamier oatmeal, add an extra splash of almond milk while cooking.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free and plant-based, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
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