Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal

Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe

Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal is a delightful and nutritious breakfast option that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples and cherries with the warmth of cinnamon and the wholesome goodness of oats. This recipe is perfect for those looking to start their day with a hearty and healthy meal that is both easy to prepare and delicious.

History

The concept of combining fruits with oatmeal has been around for centuries, with oatmeal itself being a staple in many cultures' diets. The addition of apples and cherries to oatmeal is a more modern twist, reflecting a growing desire for meals that are not only nutritious but also flavorful and satisfying. This particular recipe draws inspiration from traditional oatmeal dishes while incorporating the unique taste of cherry juice blend for an added depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Apple Cherry Oatmeal

1 cup of water
0.25 cup of apple-cherry juice blend
1 apple, cored and chopped
0.67 cup of rolled oats
1 tsp of ground cinnamon
1 cup of low-fat milk

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine the water, apple-cherry juice blend, and apple.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then stir in the rolled oats and cinnamon.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer until the mixture thickens, approximately 3 minutes.
Spoon the mixture into serving bowls and pour milk over each serving.

Variations

For a twist on this recipe, try adding a handful of nuts such as walnuts or almonds for added texture and nutrition. You can also substitute the apple with pear or mix in other dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for variety.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best texture, use rolled oats as they provide a nice chewiness. Quick oats can be used in a pinch but will result in a softer texture. To enhance the flavors, consider toasting the oats in a dry pan for a few minutes before cooking. Additionally, using fresh, in-season apples and cherries will significantly improve the taste of your oatmeal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the oatmeal hot, topped with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon, a few fresh cherry halves, and a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and protein. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add sweetness if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the oatmeal on low heat is crucial to achieving the perfect consistency. Stirring occasionally prevents the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cherry juice blend is not available, you can use apple juice or even water with a bit of extra chopped cherries for flavor. Honey or maple syrup can substitute for the natural sweetness of the fruits if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

This oatmeal can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little added milk to bring it back to the desired consistency.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the oatmeal in a deep bowl with a beautiful arrangement of apple slices and cherry halves on top. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon adds a touch of elegance and enhances the aroma.

Pairing Recommendations

A cup of green tea or a freshly squeezed orange juice pairs wonderfully with this oatmeal, complementing its flavors and adding to the nutritional value of your breakfast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm the oatmeal in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie breakfast option that is still filling and satisfying.

Carbohydrates

This Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed to start your day. A single serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, with a healthy mix of simple sugars from the fruits and complex carbohydrates from the oats.

Fats

This recipe is low in fats, with a single serving containing about 3 grams of fat, primarily from the low-fat milk. For a lower fat content, you can substitute the low-fat milk with almond milk or another non-dairy alternative.

Proteins

Each serving of this oatmeal provides about 8 grams of protein, making it a satisfying breakfast option. The protein comes from the milk and the oats, both of which are excellent sources of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

This oatmeal is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the apples and cherries, calcium and Vitamin D from the milk, and iron and magnesium from the oats. It's a great way to get a variety of nutrients from a single meal.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are oats and milk. Those with gluten sensitivities should ensure they use gluten-free oats, and those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy can substitute the low-fat milk with a non-dairy alternative.

Summary

Overall, Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal is a nutritious breakfast choice, offering a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty meal that can help keep you full and energized throughout the morning.

Summary

Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make breakfast option. It combines the health benefits of oats with the delicious tastes of apples and cherries, all spiced with cinnamon. Whether you're looking for a quick weekday breakfast or a comforting weekend brunch, this oatmeal is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. Margaret and I have been friends for many years, sharing stories, laughter, and of course, recipes.

On this particular day, Margaret handed me a worn-out recipe card with the words "Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal" scrawled across the top in her elegant handwriting. She told me that she had received the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically smell the warm, comforting aroma of apples and cinnamon filling the air. I knew I had to try making this dish for myself.

Margaret guided me through the steps, showing me how to carefully slice the apples and mix them with dried cherries, cinnamon, and oats. As the mixture simmered on the stove, the sweet scent of the fruits mingling with the warm spices made my mouth water in anticipation.

When the oatmeal was finally ready, Margaret and I sat down at her kitchen table, savoring each spoonful of the delicious dish. The apples were tender, the cherries plump and juicy, and the cinnamon added just the right amount of warmth and spice. It was the perfect combination of flavors and textures, and I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe.

From that day on, Apple-Cherry Cinnamon Oatmeal became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for breakfast on chilly mornings, or serve it as a comforting dessert on cool evenings. The recipe quickly became a favorite among my family and friends, who would often request it for special occasions or just because they were craving something sweet and satisfying.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a sprinkle of brown sugar for extra sweetness, or a splash of vanilla extract for a touch of warmth. But the heart of the dish remains the same - a simple, comforting bowl of oatmeal that never fails to bring a smile to my face.

As I think back on that summer day in Margaret's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of this recipe. It has brought me joy, comfort, and countless shared moments with loved ones. And as I pass it down to the next generation, I know that it will continue to be a cherished part of our family's culinary heritage for years to come.