Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Cereal
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Wonderfully nutritious and delicious, this warm breakfast cereal is sure to become part of your morning rotation. With the warmth of cinnamon, the tanginess of apple and the sweetness of plump raisins, this Apple Cinnamon Quinoa recipe deliciously flavorful and satisfying!

Here is hot breakfast cereal that is absolutely perfect for these chilly mornings. And even on not-so-chilly mornings a warm, comforting and wholesome breakfast cereal is always welcome at my table. Plus it can be eaten cold if you prefer.
I’ve drawn my inspiration for this dish from a very similar one my mom used to make us when we were growing up. I still remember the scent of cinnamon and apples filling our home as we hurried to get ready for school before sitting down for breakfast. It tasted delicious then and it tastes delicious now. And it’s quick, easy and nutritious.
Instead of your usual oatmeal, try this warm quinoa cereal. Packed with protein, quinoa is an exceptionally healthy grain and the only grain that is a complete protein. With the warmth of cinnamon, the tanginess of apple and the sweetness of plump raisins, this Apple Cinnamon Quinoa cereal is wonderfully flavorful and satisfying.
Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Recipe
Let’s get started!
Thoroughly rinse and drain the quinoa. Quinoa contains a coating of saponin which can be toxic at worst and really bitter tasting at best.
Add the rinsed and drained quinoa to a medium saucepan with the apple cider.
Add all remaining ingredients except for the butter and honey and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
Stir in the butter and honey and serve immediately.
You can eat it as is or add a little milk, which I love to do.
For some added deliciousness you can also add a dollop or two of your favorite vanilla yogurt. You can also make your own yogurt (it’s super easy!). Check out my tutorial on How to Make Yogurt.
Enjoy!
For another delicious and nutritious breakfast option, be sure to also check out my Homemade Granola!
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Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Cereal
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa , thoroughly rinsed and drained
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup finely chopped apple , peeled and cored
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts , e.g., pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil (vegan: use coconut oil or butter substitute)
- 2 tablespoons honey (vegan: use agave *You can omit the honey if you prefer, the raisins already add some sweetness)
Instructions
- Place everything except for the butter and honey in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender. Stir in the butter and honey.
- Serve immediately as is or add some milk to the bowl and/or a dollop of vanilla yogurt (vegan: use vegan yogurt and plant-based milk such as cashew, almond or rice milk).
Nutrition
Originally published on The Daring Gourmet March 30, 2016
Quinoa and buckwheat groats are the only 2 grains that produce an alkaline result in the body! Either would be great in this recipe imho
I just made this. Although I love and use apple cider a lot, this recipe is too tangy for me. Mainly because I don’t add any sweetener to it. I could use my raw honey and I am sure it would be great. I am trying to stay off sugar. So next time I will use half water/ half vinegar. I also added grated carrots to it.Thank you for the great recipe idea. I will make it again. Love, Ute
Oh no, this calls for apple cider (juice), not apple cider vinegar! Yes, I can imagine it was way too tangy :) Try it with juice and I think you’ll be happy with the results :)
It’s still cold here! I’m ready to switch to a jacket from my wool coat. :) And I love that you used apple cider here. So delicious!
A lovely combination, quinoa for breakfast sounds like a great idea!
My sis in law would love this recipe. She is obsessed with quinoa and always on the look out for new recipes. I love apple cinnamon together. Such a great combo and perfect for breakfast. :)
This sounds delightful — and so healthy — can’t wait to try it.
I can’t believe how late to the game I am with quinoa and this is just one more reason I am all about it. Sounds delicious!
I feel like I am swooning over that big pot full of delicious ingredients! I love the idea of cooking the quinoa in apple cider instead of water. Genius!!!