Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Bowl (Printable)

A nourishing bowl with quinoa, apples, cinnamon, and nuts for a cozy, gluten-free breakfast.

# What You Need:

→ 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:

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 the mixture is creamy.
03 - Remove from heat and let stand for 2 to 3 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
04 - Divide the quinoa bowl into servings. Top with chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins or dried cranberries, and extra apple slices if desired. Drizzle with additional maple syrup to taste.
05 - Serve immediately while warm to enjoy optimal texture and flavor.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's naturally filling and keeps you satisfied through a busy morning without that mid-morning crash.
  • The whole thing comes together in one pot, which means less cleanup before you've even finished your coffee.
  • Warm spices make your kitchen smell like comfort, no matter what kind of day is waiting for you.
02 -
  • Always rinse quinoa before cooking, or you'll taste a bitterness that no amount of cinnamon can mask.
  • The quinoa will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so if you're not eating it immediately, add a splash more milk when you reheat it.
03 -
  • Toast your nuts in a dry pan for two minutes before adding them; the flavor deepens and the crunch becomes unforgettable.
  • Use slightly underripe apples so they hold their shape and add a subtle tartness that keeps the bowl from feeling one-note sweet.
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