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Oatmeal Protein Boost - Apple Cinnamon

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)
  • Unsweetened milk of choice (dairy, almond, soy, or oat)
  • Water
  • Apple (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well)
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Vanilla protein powder (or plain/vanilla Greek yogurt)
  • Chia seeds or ground flaxseed
  • Nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew), optional
  • Maple syrup or honey, optional
  • Pinch of salt
  • Vanilla extract, optional
  • Butter or coconut oil (tiny amount for sautéing, optional)
  • Walnuts or pecans, optional for topping

Method
 

  1. Prep the apple: Core and dice 1 medium apple into small cubes. Leave the skin on for fiber and color.
  2. Warm the pan (optional but great): In a small skillet, add a teaspoon of butter or coconut oil. Sauté the apple with a pinch of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of salt for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant. Set aside.
  3. Cook the oats: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup milk and 1 cup water. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in 1 cup rolled oats and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add flavor: Stir in 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (if using). Fold in the sautéed apples.
  5. Boost the protein: Remove the pot from heat. Whisk in 1 scoop vanilla protein powder until smooth. If using Greek yogurt instead, let the oats cool for 2–3 minutes first, then stir in 1/2–3/4 cup yogurt to prevent curdling.
  6. Healthy fats and fiber: Stir in 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flax. This thickens the oatmeal and adds omega-3s.
  7. Adjust sweetness: Taste and add 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey if needed. The apples may be sweet enough on their own.
  8. Finish and serve: Spoon into bowls. Swirl in a teaspoon of nut butter and top with chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
  9. Make it yours: Add a splash more milk for creaminess or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon on top.