Name: Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 8 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup rolled oats; ½ cup almond milk; ½ cup water; ⅛ tsp Cinnamon; 1 pinch nutmeg; 1 pinch ginger; 1 pinch salt; 1 tsp brown sugar; ½ medium apple; 1 tbsp raisin cranberry blend; 1½ tsp cream

Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with this delightful fall spiced apple cran-raisin oatmeal recipe. It's a perfect way to start your chilly mornings, combining rolled oats with warm spices and the natural sweetness of apple and raisin cranberry blend. This comforting bowl of goodness will keep you full and satisfied.

Photos of Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal Recipe

If you're heading to the supermarket, you might need to keep an eye out for a few ingredients that aren't always stocked in every pantry. Almond milk is a popular dairy-free alternative but may not be something you typically have on hand. The raisin cranberry blend adds a unique sweet-tart flavor and can usually be found in the dried fruit section. Nutmeg and ginger are essential to infuse the oatmeal with warm autumnal spices.

Ingredients For Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal Recipe

Rolled oats: These form the base of your oatmeal, providing a hearty texture and nutty flavor.

Almond milk: A creamy, dairy-free alternative that adds a slightly nutty taste.

Water: Helps cook the oats and achieve the desired consistency.

Cinnamon: This warm spice gives the oatmeal its signature fall flavor.

Nutmeg: Adds another layer of warmth and complexity to the dish.

Ginger: Provides a subtle spiciness to balance the sweetness.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the oatmeal.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the oatmeal with a rich, molasses flavor.

Apple: Adds freshness and a natural sweetness.

Raisin cranberry blend: This dried fruit mix offers a sweet and tart contrast.

Cream: A finishing touch that adds richness and creaminess.

One reader, Isidore Hoppe says:

This fall spiced apple cran-raisin oatmeal is a cozy delight! The blend of spices with the sweet apples and tart cranberries is perfect. It's warm, comforting, and feels like a hug in a bowl. Highly recommend for chilly mornings!

Isidore Hoppe

Techniques Required for Making Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal

How to cook in the microwave: Combine ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and cook on high power, stirring once halfway through cooking. How to stir: Mix ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices and flavors. How to drizzle cream: Pour cream in a thin stream over the top of the oatmeal for an even coating.

How To Make Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal

Whip up a quick and healthy breakfast with this cranberry and raisin oatmeal that comes with apples and cream. Ready in less than 10 minutes!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 3 minutes

Total: 8 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cuprolled oats,quick or old fashioned
½cupalmond milk
½cupwater
⅛tspcinnamon,heaping
1pinchnutmeg
1pinchginger
1pinchsalt
1tspbrown sugar,packed
½medium apple,diced
1tbspraisin cranberry blend,chopped
1½tspcream

Instructions

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine oats, almond milk, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
Cook in the microwave on high power for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking. (Cook for 2 minutes for quick oats and 3 minutes for old fashioned oats).
Stir in brown sugar, apples, and raisin blend.
Allow to cool then drizzle the top with cream. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 255.65kcal
Fat: 7.05g
Saturated Fat: 2.65g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.43g
Carbohydrates: 45.56g
Fiber: 7.16g
Sugar: 13.43g
Protein: 6.63g
Cholesterol: 10.21mg
Sodium: 243.29mg
Calcium: 275.73mg
Potassium: 338.85mg
Iron: 2.46mg
Vitamin A: 33.61µg
Vitamin C: 5.17mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal

To enhance the flavor of your oatmeal, toast the rolled oats in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma before combining them with the almond milk and water. This extra step adds a deeper, richer flavor to your dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Oatmeal Recipe

Pre-chop the apple: Dice the apple the night before and store it in the fridge to save time in the morning.

Use quick oats: Opt for quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats to reduce cooking time by a minute.

Measure ingredients ahead: Pre-measure the oats, spices, and raisins the night before and store them in small containers.

Microwave efficiency: Use a microwave-safe bowl that distributes heat evenly to ensure the oatmeal cooks faster and more uniformly.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of oatmeal and store portions in the fridge for quick reheating throughout the week.

Substitute Ingredients For Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal Recipe

Rolled oats - Substitute with steel-cut oats: Steel-cut oats provide a chewier texture and a nuttier flavor, though they require a longer cooking time.
Almond milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk has a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
Water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice adds a natural sweetness and enhances the apple flavor in the recipe.
Cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and ginger, adding a more complex flavor.
Nutmeg - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a similar warm, spicy flavor that can replace nutmeg in most recipes.
Ginger - Substitute with cardamom: Cardamom has a sweet, spicy flavor that can add a unique twist to the oatmeal.
Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral flavor.
Brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.
Apple - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative to apples.
Raisin cranberry blend - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries provide a similar tartness and chewy texture.
Cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream adds a rich, creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal

Use a shallow, wide bowl: Choose a pristine, white, shallow bowl to give a sophisticated canvas for the oatmeal.
Layer the oatmeal: Spoon the oatmeal into the bowl, creating a smooth, even layer. This ensures a clean and elegant presentation.
Arrange the apple slices: Thinly slice the apple and fan them out in a circular pattern on top of the oatmeal, starting from the center and working your way outwards.
Sprinkle the raisin cranberry blend: Artfully scatter the raisin cranberry blend over the apple slices, ensuring even distribution for visual appeal and balanced flavor.
Drizzle with cream: Using a small spoon or a squeeze bottle, drizzle the cream in a delicate, zigzag pattern over the entire dish. This adds a touch of luxury and creaminess.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick: Place a small cinnamon stick on the side of the bowl as an aromatic and decorative garnish.
Dust with spices: Lightly dust the top with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for added visual interest and a burst of fall flavors.
Serve with a side of almond milk: Present a small pitcher of almond milk on the side, allowing diners to adjust the creaminess to their preference.
Add a fresh herb: Place a small sprig of mint or thyme on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Use a polished spoon: Serve with a polished, elegant spoon to complete the refined presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Oatmeal Recipes

Large microwave-safe bowl: This is used to combine and cook the oats, almond milk, water, and spices in the microwave.
Measuring cups: These are essential for accurately measuring the rolled oats, almond milk, and water.
Measuring spoons: These are used to measure small quantities of ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and brown sugar.
Knife: This is used to chop the apple into small pieces.
Cutting board: This provides a safe surface for chopping the apple.
Spoon: This is used for stirring the oatmeal mixture during cooking and for mixing in the brown sugar, apples, and raisin blend.
Microwave: This appliance is used to cook the oatmeal mixture.
Drizzle spoon: This is used to drizzle the cream over the oatmeal before serving.

How To Store and Freeze Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal

To store leftover oatmeal, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
When ready to enjoy, reheat the oatmeal in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of almond milk or water to achieve the desired consistency.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked oatmeal. Portion the cooled oatmeal into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen oatmeal, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to eat it. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting.
Once thawed, reheat the oatmeal in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a little almond milk or water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
If you prefer, you can also portion the cooked oatmeal into individual servings before freezing, making it easy to grab a single serving for a quick and healthy breakfast.

How To Reheat Leftover Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal

To reheat leftover fall spiced apple cran-raisin oatmeal in the microwave, simply transfer the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of almond milk or water to help rehydrate the oatmeal. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your liking. If the oatmeal is too thick, add a bit more liquid and stir well.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover oatmeal in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of almond milk or water and stir gently to combine. Heat the oatmeal, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature and consistency. If the oatmeal becomes too thick, add more liquid as needed.
To reheat the oatmeal in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover oatmeal to an oven-safe dish and add a splash of almond milk or water. Cover the dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the oatmeal halfway through reheating to ensure even heating and to check the consistency. Add more liquid if needed.
For a unique twist, try reheating the leftover fall spiced apple cran-raisin oatmeal in a waffle iron. Preheat the waffle iron and grease it lightly with cooking spray. Spoon the leftover oatmeal onto the waffle iron, close the lid, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. This method will give you a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, perfect for a quick and tasty breakfast.

Random Fact About Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal

A fun fact about this fall spiced apple cran-raisin oatmeal recipe is that the combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger not only adds a warm, comforting flavor but also provides anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a delicious and healthful breakfast choice.

Is Making Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal Economical for Home Cooking?

This fall spiced apple cran-raisin oatmeal recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like rolled oats, almond milk, and apples are affordable and readily available. Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are used in small quantities, making them economical. The addition of a raisin cranberry blend and a touch of cream adds a delightful richness without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $6-$8 USD.

Is This Fall Spiced Oatmeal Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This fall spiced apple cran-raisin oatmeal recipe is a nutritious and wholesome breakfast option. The rolled oats provide a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full. Almond milk is a low-calorie, dairy-free alternative that is rich in vitamins and minerals. The addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger not only adds warmth and flavor but also provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, while raisins and cranberries offer additional nutrients and natural sweetness. The small amount of brown sugar and cream used in this recipe is minimal, making it a relatively low-sugar and low-fat option.

To make this recipe even healthier, you could:

Opt for unsweetened almond milk to reduce the sugar content
Replace the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Increase the amount of fruit and reduce the portion of oats for added fiber and nutrients
Sprinkle some chopped nuts or seeds on top for a boost of healthy fats and protein
Use a non-dairy alternative to cream, such as coconut milk or yogurt, for a vegan-friendly option

Editor's Thoughts on This Fall Spiced Oatmeal Creation

This fall spiced apple cran-raisin oatmeal recipe is a delightful way to start your day. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger perfectly complements the sweetness of the apples and the tartness of the cran-raisins. Using almond milk adds a subtle nutty flavor, while the brown sugar provides just the right amount of sweetness. The final touch of cream drizzled on top adds a luxurious richness. It's a comforting, nutritious breakfast that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.

Enhance Your Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Imagine tender carrots bathed in a luscious maple syrup glaze, their natural sweetness enhanced by a hint of cinnamon. These vibrant gems will add a delightful contrast to your Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Sausage and Apple Skillet: Picture a sizzling skillet filled with savory sausages and crisp apple slices, caramelized to perfection. The savory and sweet combination will complement the warm spices in your oatmeal, creating a breakfast feast that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Envision moist pumpkin spice muffins, their tops golden and slightly crisp, with a soft, spiced interior. These muffins, bursting with autumn flavors, will pair beautifully with your oatmeal, adding an extra layer of seasonal delight to your morning meal.

Cranberry Orange Scones: Think of flaky cranberry orange scones, their tart cranberries and zesty orange zest providing a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, spiced oatmeal. These scones will bring a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to your breakfast table.

Butternut Squash Soup: Visualize a velvety butternut squash soup, its creamy texture and rich, earthy flavor offering a savory balance to your sweet oatmeal. This comforting soup will make your breakfast feel like a cozy, autumnal embrace, perfect for a crisp fall morning.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal

Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats: Dive into the cozy flavors of fall with these overnight oats infused with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and a hint of maple syrup. Perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast.

Cranberry Orange Oatmeal: Brighten your morning with this zesty oatmeal featuring fresh orange zest, tart cranberries, and a touch of honey. A delightful blend of sweet and tangy.

Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Porridge: Switch up your breakfast routine with this hearty quinoa porridge cooked with apple slices, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract. A protein-packed start to your day.

Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal: Indulge in this warm and comforting baked oatmeal loaded with maple syrup, crunchy pecans, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Perfect for a weekend brunch.

Chai Spiced Pear Oatmeal: Experience the exotic flavors of chai spices combined with juicy pear slices in this creamy oatmeal. A fragrant and delicious way to start your day.

Why trust this Fall Spiced Apple Cran-Raisin Oatmeal Recipe:

This recipe combines the comforting flavors of fall spices with the wholesome goodness of rolled oats. The addition of almond milk and a hint of brown sugar creates a creamy, slightly sweet base. Fresh apple and a raisin cranberry blend add natural sweetness and texture, making each bite a delightful experience. The final touch of cream drizzled on top elevates the dish to a new level of indulgence. Trust this recipe for a warm, satisfying breakfast that captures the essence of autumn.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of milk instead of almond milk?

Absolutely! You can use any milk you prefer, like cow's milk, soy milk, or even oat milk. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of the microwave?

Yes, you can! Just combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender and the mixture is creamy. It should take about 5-7 minutes.

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

You can, but the cooking time will be shorter. Instant oats usually cook in about 1-2 minutes in the microwave. Just keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn't overflow.

Can I add other toppings or mix-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Nuts, seeds, a drizzle of honey, or even a dollop of yogurt would be great additions.

How can I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen it up if needed.