Cinnamon Stick Apple Jacks are a warm, spiced breakfast porridge that combines tender oats, sweet apples, and the deep, aromatic flavor of whole cinnamon sticks. This dish works because the cinnamon infuses slowly into the milk and apples, creating a cozy, fragrant bowl that feels like autumn in a bowl. It’s a simple, stovetop recipe that’s perfect for chilly mornings or a comforting weekend brunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1 cup (90 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 medium apples (about 300 g), peeled, cored, and diced (e.g., Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 2 cinnamon sticks (about 3 inches / 7.5 cm each)
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) brown sugar, packed (or maple syrup)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: chopped walnuts, raisins, extra apple slices, or a drizzle of honey
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, water, diced apples, cinnamon sticks, brown sugar, ground cinnamon (if using), and salt. Stir to combine.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil rapidly.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the rolled oats.
- Cook the oats, stirring frequently, for about 15–20 minutes, until the oats are tender and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. The apples should be soft but still hold their shape.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Remove the cinnamon sticks (they are for flavor, not for eating).
- Ladle the porridge into bowls. Add your favorite toppings, such as walnuts or a drizzle of honey, and serve warm.
Tips
- Use whole cinnamon sticks, not ground: Ground cinnamon can make the porridge gritty and overly pungent. The sticks infuse a gentle, sweet spice. If you only have ground, use 1/2 teaspoon and stir it in at the end.
- Adjust the liquid for your preferred texture: For a thicker porridge, use 1 3/4 cups (420 ml) milk and 3/4 cup (180 ml) water. For a thinner, more soupy consistency, add an extra 1/4 cup (60 ml) of milk.
- Don’t skip the salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the apple and cinnamon flavors.
- Stir frequently: Oats can stick to the bottom of the pan. Stir every couple of minutes, especially as the porridge thickens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this porridge hot, topped with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or almonds, a few fresh apple slices, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. It pairs beautifully with a cup of black coffee or chai tea. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside a slice of whole-grain toast with almond butter.
Variations
- Apple Jacks with a crunch: Stir in 1/4 cup (30 g) of granola or crushed graham crackers just before serving for added texture.
- Slow-cooker version: Combine all ingredients (except vanilla) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring once halfway. Stir in vanilla before serving.
- Vegan and dairy-free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk. Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Spiced-up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger along with the cinnamon sticks for a more complex spice profile.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover porridge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The oats will absorb liquid and thicken as they sit. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water and warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until hot. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If you plan to freeze, do so for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats? Yes, but the cooking time will be much shorter (about 5–7 minutes). The texture will be softer and less chewy. Keep the liquid amounts the same.
What type of apple is best? Firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn hold their shape well and provide a nice contrast to the creamy oats. Softer apples like McIntosh will break down more, creating a more applesauce-like texture.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the porridge and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with extra milk. The cinnamon flavor will intensify as it sits.
Why does my porridge become too thick? Oats continue to absorb liquid even after cooking. If it becomes too thick, simply stir in more milk or water when reheating. Always reserve a little liquid to adjust consistency.
Can I use apple cider instead of water? Absolutely. Replace the water with apple cider for a more intense apple flavor. You may want to reduce the brown sugar slightly, as cider adds sweetness.
Is it safe to leave the cinnamon sticks in the porridge while storing? It’s best to remove them before storing, as they can become bitter and continue to infuse strongly. Store the porridge without the sticks and add fresh ones when reheating if desired.
Related
- Sugar Cookie Zwift Recipe: Easy Iced Cut-Outs
- Sugar Cookie Syrup Recipe for Coffee & Drinks
- Sugar Cookie Toast Crunch Recipe
More recipes to cook
Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).