Name: Oatmeal with Apple and Carrots
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487264H57M13S
Total time: PT-487264H57M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 medium apple, grated; 1 medium carrot, grated; 2 cups water or milk (or a mix of both); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); Pinch of salt; Chopped nuts or raisins for topping (optional)

This oatmeal with apple and carrots is a cozy, nourishing breakfast packed with natural sweetness and wholesome ingredients. It’s the perfect way to start my day on a healthy and satisfying note, combining the comfort of warm oats with the crunch of carrots and the fruity burst of apples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe balances health and flavor. The oatmeal is filling and fiber-rich, while the apple and carrots bring a subtle natural sweetness without needing added sugar. It’s quick enough for a weekday breakfast but comforting enough to feel like a treat. Plus, I can customize it to suit whatever I have on hand.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rolled oats
Grated apple
Grated carrots
Water or milk (or a mix of both)
Ground cinnamon
Honey or maple syrup (optional)
A pinch of salt
Chopped nuts or raisins (optional topping)

directions

In a small pot, I combine the oats, grated apple, grated carrots, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
I pour in water or milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, I reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are soft and the mixture is creamy.
I taste and stir in a bit of honey or maple syrup if I want it sweeter.
I serve it warm, topped with nuts or raisins if I’m feeling extra hungry.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 and takes about 10 minutes from start to finish—5 minutes to prep and 5–7 minutes to cook.

Variations

I sometimes swap the apple for pear or use a mix of the two. For a nuttier twist, I stir in a spoonful of peanut or almond butter. When I want extra protein, I add a scoop of Greek yogurt or a splash of protein-rich milk. And for spice, a bit of nutmeg or ginger complements the cinnamon perfectly.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I add a splash of milk or water and warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until it’s creamy again.

FAQs

How fine should I grate the apple and carrots?

I grate them finely so they soften quickly while cooking and blend smoothly into the oats.

Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes make a double batch and reheat it in the morning for a fast, easy breakfast.

What kind of oats work best?

I use rolled oats for the best texture, but quick oats work if I’m short on time. Steel-cut oats need more cooking time.

Can I make this oatmeal vegan?

Absolutely. I use plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey to keep it vegan.

Is this recipe good for kids?

Yes, it’s a great kid-friendly breakfast. I often skip the added sweetener since the fruit makes it sweet enough.

Conclusion

This oatmeal with apple and carrots is one of my favorite ways to get a nutritious breakfast without sacrificing flavor. It’s simple, wholesome, and endlessly adaptable to my tastes and pantry. Whether I’m in a rush or savoring a slow morning, it always hits the spot.