This warm and cozy breakfast combines fluffy quinoa with sweet apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s like a hug in a bowl to start your day!
Honestly, I love how quick this meal is to whip up. I just cook the quinoa, add apples, and stir in cinnamon—breakfast bliss in no time. Who knew healthy could taste this good?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Quinoa: Quinoa is the star of this breakfast. It’s packed with protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a different grain, try using oatmeal or cooked farro as alternatives.
Apples: I recommend using sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for nice flavor. Feel free to swap in pears if you’re in the mood for a change! Just keep the skin on for added nutrients and color.
Dried Fruits: I usually use raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture. You can easily replace them with chopped dates or any dried fruits like apricots or figs.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is a must for flavor! If you like experimenting, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
Maple Syrup or Honey: These add sweetness, but they are optional. You can also use agave syrup or skip sweeteners if you prefer a naturally sweet breakfast.
How Do You Properly Rinse Quinoa?
Rinsing quinoa is an important step to get rid of any bitterness from the saponins on its surface. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a fine-mesh strainer to avoid losing any grains.
- Run cold water over the quinoa while gently swishing it around with your hand.
- Make sure to rinse for about 1-2 minutes until the water runs clear; this ensures all saponins are washed away.
This simple step makes a huge difference in flavor, so don’t skip it! A well-rinsed quinoa will have a light and nutty taste, making your breakfast even better.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Breakfast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 large apple, cored and chopped (with skin on for color and texture)
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Milk or plant-based milk for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 5 minutes preparing the ingredients and rinsing the quinoa, and then 20 minutes for cooking and letting everything come together. Perfect for a quick, nutritious start to your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Quinoa:
Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer. This removes any natural coating called saponin that can make the quinoa taste bitter. Rinse for about 1-2 minutes, swishing it around to ensure it’s well cleaned.
2. Cook the Quinoa:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. When it starts to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes. The quinoa is ready when the water has been absorbed and you can see the little “tails” of the grains.
3. Fluff and Season:
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Use a fork to fluff the quinoa gently. Stir in the ground cinnamon, vanilla extract (if you’re using it), and maple syrup or honey to taste for a touch of sweetness.
4. Add Apples and Dried Fruits:
Gently fold in the chopped apple pieces along with the raisins or dried cranberries. The heat from the quinoa will lightly soften the apples while keeping them crisp!
5. Let it Rest:
Cover the saucepan again and let the mixture sit off the heat for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together beautifully and helps soften the apples just a bit more.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the warm quinoa into bowls. If you like, add a splash of milk (dairy or plant-based) for extra creaminess. Enjoy your cozy, nourishing breakfast that will power you through the morning!
Enjoy this cozy, naturally sweet Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Breakfast that’s hearty and nourishing!
Can I Use a Different Type of Grain Instead of Quinoa?
Absolutely! While quinoa is great, you can substitute it with rice, oatmeal, or even farro. Just adjust the cooking times and liquid ratios according to the grain you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cinnamon Apple Quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to revive the texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly if you omit the optional honey and serve it with plant-based milk. Maple syrup is a great sweetener that keeps it plant-based.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
You can mix in other fruits, such as pears, berries, or bananas. Just adjust their quantities depending on how sweet you like your breakfast. Adding nuts or seeds can also give it a nice crunch!
