Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Bowl (Printable version)

Fluffy quinoa with apples and cinnamon, topped with nuts and dried fruit for a wholesome start.

# Needed ingredients:

→ 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)

# How to make it:

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 let sit for 2 to 3 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
04 - Divide into bowls and top with walnuts or pecans, raisins or cranberries, and extra apple slices if desired. Drizzle with additional maple syrup to taste.
05 - Serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The quinoa cooks directly in the milk and apple juice, creating a naturally creamy texture without any cream required.
  • It's ready in 30 minutes flat, perfect for mornings when you want something more substantial than cereal but don't have hours.
  • One bowl keeps you satisfied until lunch because quinoa brings complete protein and real staying power.
02 -
  • Rinsing quinoa is non-negotiable; skip it and your bowl will have a slightly bitter, chalky edge that no amount of cinnamon can fix.
  • Stir occasionally while it simmers so the bottom doesn't stick and the flavors blend—this is how you get that creamy consistency instead of grainy.
03 -
  • Toast your nuts in a dry pan for just a couple of minutes before adding them; it wakes up their flavor and makes them taste fresher than raw.
  • If the mixture seems too thick after cooking, stir in a bit more milk until it reaches the consistency you like—some people prefer it spoonable, others like it more pourable.
Go back