Start your day with this nourishing Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Power Porridge — a wholesome breakfast that’s warm, comforting, and packed with plant-based nutrition.
Rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it fuels your morning with sustained energy.
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, this easy, quick recipe is perfect for daily meals or meal-prep, delivering a cozy, guilt-free start every time.
Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Porridge
Equipment
- 1 small saucepan
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 tablespoon measuring spoon
- 1 teaspoon measuring spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Stirring spoon
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
Power Porridge:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- ½ cup quinoa rinsed
- 1 small apple diced
- 6 tablespoons hemp seeds
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup optional
Toppings:
- 4 tablespoons almond butter
- Ground cinnamon to taste
- Splash of almond milk
- Sliced apples for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Before turning on the stove, gather all your ingredients. Rinse the quinoa under cold running water to remove any natural bitterness. Wash the apple thoroughly, peel it if desired, and cut it into small, even cubes. Measure out your almond milk, hemp seeds, ground flaxseed, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and maple syrup. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Heat the Base Liquid: Place a small saucepan on your stove over high heat. Pour in the almond milk, ensuring it is fresh and unsweetened for the best flavor. Heating the liquid first helps blend the flavors and creates a creamier texture later.
- Add Quinoa and Apple: Once the almond milk begins to warm, add the rinsed quinoa and diced apple into the saucepan. Sprinkle in the sea salt. Stir gently to incorporate all the ingredients. This step ensures that the quinoa is evenly coated and the apples start releasing their natural sweetness into the milk.
- Bring to a Gentle Boil: Increase the heat slightly until the mixture begins to bubble gently. Watch closely to prevent boiling over. Stir occasionally to keep the quinoa from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure the apple cubes are evenly distributed.
- Simmer and Infuse Flavors: Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low to create a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan with a lid to trap the steam. Allow the quinoa and apples to cook for 18–20 minutes. During this time, the quinoa will absorb the almond milk, swell, and soften, while the apples release natural sweetness and flavor.
- Add Protein and Fiber Boosters: After simmering, remove the pan from heat. Add the hemp seeds and ground flaxseed into the mixture. Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and pour the maple syrup if you wish for extra sweetness. Stir slowly and thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and evenly infused with flavor.
- Let the Porridge Rest: Allow the porridge to rest for 2–3 minutes. This short resting time allows the quinoa to finish absorbing the liquid and the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir gently one last time before serving to ensure the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Serving Bowls: Spoon the porridge into serving bowls, filling them evenly. This recipe should serve six generous portions.
- Add Toppings for Flavor and Texture: Top each bowl with a dollop of almond butter for creaminess and healthy fats. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon for added warmth. Add fresh sliced apples for a crisp bite and a splash of almond milk for extra creaminess. The toppings not only enhance flavor but also create a pleasing texture contrast.
- Enjoy Warm and Fresh: Serve your Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Power Porridge immediately while warm. Enjoy this nourishing, fiber-rich, plant-based breakfast that will energize your morning. This porridge works beautifully for meal prep too — simply store in airtight containers for up to 4 days and reheat gently before serving.
Notes
- Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural bitterness and ensure a clean flavor.
- Use unsweetened almond milk to keep calories lower and allow the cinnamon and apple flavors to stand out.
- Adjust sweetness by adding maple syrup or relying solely on natural apple sweetness.
- Dice apples evenly so they cook uniformly and release consistent flavor throughout the porridge.
- This recipe works well for meal prep and can be doubled to serve a larger group.
- For a richer texture, add a splash of almond milk before serving.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavor combinations.
Chef’s Secrets: Maximizing Flavor and Texture
To truly elevate this porridge, focus on balancing texture and flavor.
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples — such as Fuji and Granny Smith — to create a dynamic flavor profile.
Toasting quinoa lightly before cooking can also add a subtle nutty depth.
When stirring in the hemp seeds and flaxseed, do it off the heat to preserve their delicate nutrients and avoid altering texture.
For a creamier consistency, add a splash of almond milk just before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Breakfast Pairings
This porridge is delightful on its own, but pairing it with complementary flavors can make your breakfast extraordinary.
Top with crunchy toasted walnuts, a handful of fresh berries, or a sprinkle of coconut flakes for extra texture.
Drizzle with almond or cashew butter for richness and added protein.
Pair your bowl with a cup of herbal tea or warm chai latte to enhance the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple.
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh Longer
This recipe is meal-prep friendly and stores well for up to 4 days.
Allow the porridge to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for best freshness.
When reheating, add a splash of almond milk or water to restore the creamy texture, as quinoa tends to thicken after chilling.
You can also freeze individual portions in sealed freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months — simply reheat gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes! You can substitute unsweetened almond milk with oat milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or dairy milk depending on preference and dietary needs. Keep in mind that coconut milk will add a richer, slightly tropical flavor.
2. Can I make this porridge ahead of time?
Absolutely. This porridge is ideal for meal prep. Store portions in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of milk for the best texture.
3. Can I add other fruits or flavors?
Yes. This recipe is versatile. You can add fresh berries, diced pears, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for variation. A dash of nutmeg or cardamom also complements the cinnamon nicely.
4. How can I make this porridge creamier?
To achieve a creamier texture, stir in extra almond milk toward the end of cooking or add a spoonful of almond butter before serving. A splash of coconut milk also creates a rich consistency.
5. Is this porridge suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use certified gluten-free quinoa and almond milk. It’s also vegan and dairy-free, making it ideal for a wide range of dietary needs.
