Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Bowl (Printable Version)

Warm quinoa with apples, cinnamon, and nuts offers a comforting, wholesome start to your morning.

# Ingredient List:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

→ Liquids

02 - 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
03 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Fruit

04 - 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced

→ Sweeteners & Spices

05 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
08 - Pinch of salt

→ Toppings

09 - 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans
10 - 1 tablespoon raisins or dried cranberries
11 - Extra apple slices for garnish (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, almond milk, vanilla extract, diced apple, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
02 - Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally until quinoa is tender and mixture is creamy.
03 - Remove from heat and allow to stand for 2 to 3 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork.
04 - Divide into serving bowls. Top with walnuts or pecans, raisins or dried cranberries, and additional apple slices if desired. Drizzle with extra maple syrup to taste.
05 - Serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It keeps you full until lunch without that mid-morning crash you get from sugary cereals.
  • The quinoa cooks right in the almond milk, so theres no draining or rinsing afterward.
  • You can prep the ingredients the night before and have breakfast ready in twenty minutes flat.
  • It tastes indulgent but its packed with protein, fiber, and actual nutrients your body wants.
02 -
  • Stir the quinoa a few times while it simmers or the bottom layer can scorch and turn bitter.
  • If it looks too thick after cooking, stir in a splash of almond milk to loosen it up.
  • Dont skip the resting step. The quinoa needs those few minutes to finish cooking in its own steam.
03 -
  • Toast your quinoa in the dry saucepan for a minute before adding the liquid. It deepens the flavor and adds a subtle nuttiness.
  • Use a mix of cinnamon and a tiny bit of ginger for a spicier, more complex warmth.
  • If youre making this for kids, let them choose their own toppings. They eat it more willingly when they feel involved.
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