# What You'll Need:
→ Oatmeal Base
01 - 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy alternative)
03 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
→ Apple Topping
07 - 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
08 - 1 teaspoon unsalted butter or coconut oil for vegan option
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
10 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
11 - Pinch of salt
→ Optional Garnishes
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
13 - Extra maple syrup or honey, to taste
14 - Pinch of ground nutmeg
# Directions:
01 - Combine oats, milk, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan. Stir and bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
02 - Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until oats are creamy and tender.
03 - While oats cook, melt butter or coconut oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add diced apple, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, and salt. Stir and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until apples soften and lightly caramelize.
04 - Divide oatmeal evenly between two bowls. Spoon the warm apple topping over each portion.
05 - Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts over each bowl, drizzle with additional maple syrup or honey if desired, and finish with a pinch of ground nutmeg. Serve warm.
