Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa
Cozy up with a bowl of warm Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa – where fluffy grains meet tender spiced apples in perfect harmony. It’s simple enough for busy weekdays but special enough for lazy weekend brunches.
Think apple pie meets healthy breakfast bowl, minus the guilt! I love how the maple syrup and vanilla add just the right touch of sweetness, while the quinoa keeps you satisfied until lunch.
Variations & Substitutions
Try using pears instead of apples for a different fruity twist. For the liquid base, experiment with different plant-based milks – coconut milk adds richness, while almond milk keeps it light.
Don’t have maple syrup? Honey works beautifully too. For added protein, stir in a dollop of almond butter or sprinkle with hemp seeds.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results
Always rinse your quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness. Watch the cooking liquid carefully – if it’s absorbing too quickly, add a splash more milk for creaminess.
Adding cinnamon at the beginning of cooking infuses the quinoa with more flavor. For extra creaminess, let the quinoa rest covered for 5-10 minutes after cooking.
Making the Recipe Stand Out
Create a beautiful breakfast bowl by adding fresh berries, toasted coconut flakes, and a sprinkle of cacao nibs. For texture contrast, include both soft cooked apples and fresh apple slices.
A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. Consider making a topping bar when serving guests, letting everyone customize their bowl.
Storage & Reheating
This quinoa breakfast keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. The texture might thicken in the fridge, so don’t be shy about adding extra milk when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed and drained
- 2 cups water or almond milk
- 2 apples peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine quinoa, water/milk, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa cooks, sauté diced apples with cinnamon and a splash of maple syrup until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir the cooked apples, vanilla extract, and remaining spices into the quinoa.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings like chopped nuts, additional apple slices, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
