Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa

Name: Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1 apple, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional); Pinch of salt; Chopped nuts for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple & Speedy

I love starting my day with a wholesome breakfast, and this Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa has quickly become one of my favorites. It's packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and energizing choice. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and nutty quinoa creates a deliciously balanced meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, so I can grab it on busy mornings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll be hooked on its delightful flavors and nutritious benefits!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:49:36.742Z

When I first tried making quinoa for breakfast, I was pleasantly surprised at how it absorbed flavors beautifully. I decided to jazz it up by adding diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The apples turn tender while cooking, giving the dish a wonderful sweetness that pairs perfectly with quinoa's nutty flavor.

This recipe has become a breakfast staple for my family. I love to prepare a larger batch on the weekends and enjoy it throughout the week. Moreover, adding a dollop of yogurt on top makes for a creamy and satisfying finish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon
High in protein and fiber for a nutritious breakfast
Versatile: enjoy it warm or cold, anytime of the day

Ingredient Spotlight: Quinoa

Quinoa is often celebrated for its impressive nutritional profile, especially in this breakfast dish. It's a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a plant-based source of protein. Rinsing the quinoa before cooking is crucial; it removes the natural coating called saponin that can impart a bitter taste. Make sure to rinse it under cold water for about 30 seconds to ensure a pleasant flavor.

The texture of properly cooked quinoa adds a lovely contrast to the soft diced apples. When cooked, each grain should be fluffy and slightly translucent, with a visible white curl. If you find your quinoa turning mushy, it may have been overcooked or cooked in too much liquid. For perfect results, stick to the recommended 2:1 liquid-to-quinoa ratio and monitor the cooking time closely.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa is delightful as is, it’s also highly versatile. For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract during cooking. For those who enjoy more texture, toss in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins along with the apple. You can also experiment by replacing almond milk with coconut milk for a richer, creamier base.

Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you're not a fan of maple syrup, honey or agave nectar can be used as alternatives. Additionally, if you’re prepping this dish in advance, simply store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful breakfast treat:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1 apple, diced
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
Pinch of salt
Chopped nuts for topping (optional)

Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your breakfast quinoa:

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium pot, combine quinoa, almond milk, diced apple, cinnamon, maple syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has absorbed.

Serve and Enjoy

Fluff the quinoa with a fork, spoon into bowls, and top with chopped nuts if desired. Enjoy your warm breakfast!

This quinoa breakfast is great for meal prep; just store in the fridge and reheat!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract while cooking the quinoa.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa is an ideal meal prep option. Prepare a larger batch over the weekend, and store it in individual servings for a quick grab-and-go breakfast. Keep it in airtight containers, and it will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you prefer freezing, you can portion it out and store it in freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the morning.

To reheat, simply add a tablespoon of milk for every cup of quinoa to restore creaminess. Heat it in a saucepan over low heat for a few minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. This method ensures that you maintain the dish's texture and flavor while enjoying your breakfast quickly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your quinoa more gummy than fluffy, it’s likely due to excess water or cooking time. For next time, ensure you measure your liquid accurately and keep an eye on the pot as it simmers. If you’re unsure, you can taste it a minute or two before the end of the cooking time to see if it’s ready.

Alternatively, if the quinoa seems too dry after cooking, you can add additional liquid right at the end and let it sit covered for a few more minutes. This allows the quinoa to absorb the extra moisture without cooking further, helping to achieve the perfect consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use water instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can use water for cooking; however, almond milk adds a creamier texture and richer flavor.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can add fruits like bananas, berries, or pears for different flavor profiles.

→ Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based milk and no eggs or dairy.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat before serving.