Description

This Apple Carrot Oatmeal is a wholesome and comforting breakfast inspired by the flavors of carrot cake. Combining grated carrots and apples with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, this stovetop oatmeal offers a creamy texture and a naturally sweet, nutrient-rich start to your day. Optional additions like nuts and dried fruit add crunch and extra flavor, making this recipe a healthy and delicious way to enjoy classic fall flavors in a quick and easy breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1 ¾ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
½ cup grated carrots
½ cup grated apple
1 tablespoon maple syrup
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins

2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans
1 tablespoon raisins or chopped dates

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the rolled oats, milk, grated carrots, grated apple, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together evenly.
Bring to Boil: Heat the mixture until it reaches a gentle boil. This initial boiling activates the oats and blends the spices and sweetness throughout the mixture.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the oatmeal simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the oats cook evenly until they are tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.
Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavors, then remove the saucepan from heat.
Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in chopped nuts and dried fruit to add texture and extra flavor. These can be adjusted according to your preference.
Serve: Serve the oatmeal warm. Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup or a splash of milk if you like it sweeter or creamier.

Notes

For a chewier texture, use steel-cut oats but increase both the cook time and amount of liquid accordingly.
Maple syrup can be swapped with honey or agave nectar based on dietary choices or flavor preference.
Add a scoop of protein powder or a spoonful of nut butter for an extra protein boost.