If you are looking for a breakfast that tastes like a warm hug from your favorite pie, the Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe is here to brighten your mornings. This dish combines the cozy flavors of apple pie with the wholesome goodness of steel-cut oats, creating a comforting bowl that is both nourishing and indulgent. The magic happens inside the Instant Pot, making the cooking process effortless while delivering oats that are perfectly tender and infused with cinnamon, brown sugar, and fresh apple cider. It’s a wonderful way to start your day with a balance of sweetness and spice, and best of all, it feels like a special treat every time you dig in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe lies in its simplicity and thoughtful ingredient choices, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect flavor and texture. From the nutty butter that browns the oats to the tangy sweetness of fresh apple cider and the natural crunch from diced apples, every ingredient helps build layers of taste that make this oatmeal stand out.
- Salted butter: Just a tablespoon to toast the oats and add a rich base flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Gluten-Free Steel Cut Oats: Use one cup of these hearty oats for that satisfying chew and texture; quick-cooking oats won’t give the same effect.
- Water: Two cups to provide the perfect liquid ratio for perfectly cooked oats without being mushy.
- Apple cider: Half a cup of fresh (non-vinegar) cider to give the oatmeal its signature apple pie taste and natural sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Two tablespoons for a warm caramel-like sweetness that balances the tartness of the cider.
- Ground cinnamon: A teaspoon for that classic apple pie spice aroma that makes your kitchen smell divine.
- Large apple: Peeled, cored, and diced, this adds fresh fruit bursts and texture inside the creamy oatmeal.
- Fresh whipped cream: Optional but highly recommended for topping and enriching the oatmeal’s creaminess.
- Diced apple: Extra for garnish and to keep the apple theme fresh and inviting.
- Walnuts: Adds crunch and a wonderful nutty contrast to the soft oats and apples.
How to Make Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Toast Oats
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the “sauté” function and melt the salted butter. This step is essential because it helps coat the oats, enlivening their natural nuttiness and prevents them from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Toasting the oats slightly for about two minutes brings out a delightful depth of flavor.
Step 2: Add Liquid and Sweeteners
Once your oats are toasted, pour in the water, apple cider (not vinegar—make sure it’s fresh cider!), brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. These liquids and spices create that iconic apple pie flavor we’re all craving and strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy.
Step 3: Mix in Apples
Adding the freshly peeled, cored, and diced apple at this stage ensures the fruit will soften and infuse the oatmeal with bright apple flavor while maintaining some lovely texture and bite that makes every spoonful interesting.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Oatmeal
Seal the Instant Pot lid securely and switch it to “pressure cook” mode for 8 minutes. This time frame cooks the oats thoroughly to a creamy yet textured consistency, all while melding the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Natural Release and Stir
When the cooking cycle ends, let the Instant Pot sit closed for 5 minutes to naturally release some steam. Then carefully press the quick release to vent any remaining pressure. Stir the oatmeal well to combine everything evenly and wake up those scents of cinnamon and apples.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the oatmeal into bowls, and prepare yourself for the best part. Top generously with fresh whipped cream, sprinkle more diced apples, and add some crunchy walnuts if you like. The sumptuous aroma and flavors will make waking up early every morning feel like a celebration.
How to Serve Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this oatmeal is where you can get creative or keep it classic with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, more diced apples, and a handful of toasted walnuts. These toppings introduce additional textures and flavors that complement the warm cinnamon and sweet apple base perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe with a side of crispy bacon or turkey sausage for a savory contrast that balances the sweetness. A glass of warm milk or spiced chai tea also pairs wonderfully to round out your breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider layering the oatmeal in clear glass jars with whipped cream and apple slices for a visually stunning breakfast parfait. Or serve it in a hollowed-out apple bowl for a rustic presentation that doubles as a conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it a fantastic option for easy weekday breakfasts that still feel special and satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, portion the oatmeal into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a stress-free morning meal.
Reheating
Reheat the oatmeal in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Stir well and add your desired toppings fresh to revive the comforting apple pie flavor.
FAQs
Can I use regular oats instead of steel-cut oats?
For the best texture and flavor in this Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe, steel-cut oats are preferred as they hold up well under pressure cooking. Using rolled or quick oats will make the oatmeal mushier and may require adjusted cooking times.
Is apple cider vinegar the same as apple cider?
No, apple cider vinegar is not the same and will alter the flavor drastically. Be sure to use fresh, sweet apple cider for that authentic apple pie taste in the oatmeal.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the salted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and top with coconut whipped cream to keep it dairy-free and just as delicious.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? Can I make this on the stove?
You can make a similar version on the stovetop by simmering the oats, liquid, and apples until tender but expect a longer cooking time and slightly different texture. The Instant Pot just speeds the process and gives wonderful consistency.
Can I add other spices to the recipe?
Yes, feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg, allspice, or ginger to add complexity and warmth to this already flavorful Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe is truly one of those breakfasts that feels like a cozy treat but comes together so effortlessly. If you love that nostalgic apple pie flavor but want something warm, healthy, and easy to prepare, this recipe is a must-try. It’s a delicious way to bring a little joy to your mornings and nourish yourself with every comforting bite.
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Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal is a comforting, flavorful breakfast that combines gluten-free steel cut oats with apple cider, fresh apples, and warming cinnamon. Cooked quickly under pressure, it offers a creamy and hearty start to your day reminiscent of classic apple pie flavors, topped with whipped cream, fresh apples, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon salted butter (14 grams, ⅛ stick)
- 1 cup Gluten-Free Steel Cut Oats (176 grams, NOT quick-cooking)
- 2 cups water (454 grams)
- ½ cup apple cider (114 grams, NOT apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (27 grams)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams)
- 1 large apple (peeled, cored, and diced)
Toppings
- Fresh whipped cream
- Diced apple
- Walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Set your pressure cooker to the “saute” mode and add the salted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, spreading it evenly across the bottom of the pot to prevent oats from sticking.
- Toast the Oats: Add the gluten-free steel cut oats to the melted butter. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the oats begin to toast slightly, enhancing their nutty flavor.
- Add Liquid and Flavorings: Pour in the water, apple cider, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and diced apple. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly before cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid securely, switch to “pressure cook” mode, and set the timer for 8 minutes to cook the oats thoroughly and infuse the apple pie flavors.
- Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, allow the Instant Pot to sit closed for 5 minutes to naturally release some steam, then manually release any remaining pressure before opening the lid carefully.
- Final Stir and Aroma Check: Open the pot and stir the oatmeal gently to freshen it up. Enjoy the wonderful apple pie aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Serve: Dish out the oatmeal while hot, topping each serving with fresh whipped cream, additional diced apple, and walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use apple cider, not apple cider vinegar, to achieve the authentic sweet apple flavor in this recipe.
- For a creamier oatmeal, you can substitute part of the water with milk or a milk alternative.
- If you prefer a less sweet dish, adjust the brown sugar quantity or omit it entirely.
- Steel cut oats need longer cooking than rolled oats; do not substitute with quick oats as texture and cooking time will differ.
- Letting the Instant Pot natural release for at least 5 minutes helps prevent oatmeal from splattering when opening.
