Apple and Cinnamon Oatmeal (Havermout)

Havermout is the Dutch name for oatmeal, a simple breakfast porridge valued for its gentle warmth and filling, creamy texture. In this version, rolled oats simmer in whole milk until soft, while grated sweet-tart apple melts into the porridge rather than sitting on top in chunks. Cinnamon gives it a familiar spiced aroma, butter rounds out the finish, and a drizzle of honey adds just enough sweetness. Chopped walnuts bring crunch against the soft oats, making the bowl feel complete without much effort. It is quick enough for weekdays but still has the comfort of a slower breakfast.
Cuisine style Dutch-style breakfast
Cooking style One-pot cooking • Minimal cleanup
Time commitment Under 30 minutes

Why this recipe works

  • Creamy texture: Whole milk and a gentle simmer help the oats soften into a smooth, spoonable porridge.
  • Natural sweetness: Grated apple cooks directly into the oats, adding sweetness and fruitiness without making the porridge heavy.
  • Crunchy finish: Walnuts added just before serving contrast with the soft oats and warm apple.

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Ingredient notes

  • Choose a firm apple: A firm sweet-tart apple grates cleanly and softens without disappearing completely into the porridge.
  • Milk affects richness: Whole milk gives the creamiest result, while oat drink keeps the porridge dairy-free with a similarly rounded texture.
  • Adjust at the end: Taste before adding extra honey, as the apple may provide enough sweetness depending on the variety.

Texture tips

  • Keep it gently simmering: Once the oats are added, use a low simmer and stir often so the starches release evenly.
  • Loosen if needed: If the porridge thickens too much, add a little more milk and warm gently until smooth.

Make-ahead tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers: Cool, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat gently: Warm in a saucepan with a splash of milk, stirring until smooth and piping hot.
  • Best freshly made: The porridge is softest and creamiest when served straight after cooking.

Equipment you'll need

Ingredients
Instructions
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  1. Pour the milk into a saucepan and add the salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally so it does not catch.
  2. Stir in the oats and cook at a low simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often, until starting to thicken. While it cooks, grate the apple (discard the core).
  3. Stir the grated apple and cinnamon into the porridge and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the apple softens and the oats are creamy. Take off the heat and stir in the butter until melted.
  4. Divide between bowls and drizzle with the honey. Roughly chop the walnuts and scatter over the top, then serve warm.

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Recipe notes

Tips

  • Keep the heat low once the oats go in and stir often for the creamiest texture and to prevent scorching.
  • If the porridge thickens too much, loosen it with a splash of milk and warm gently until smooth.

Substitutions

  • Replace Whole milk with Oat drink for a dairy-free version.
  • Replace Walnuts with Almonds for a different nutty crunch.
  • Replace Honey with Maple syrup for a slightly deeper sweetness.

Storage

  • Refrigerate up to 2 days
  • Cool, cover and refrigerate. Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of Whole milk, stirring until smooth and piping hot.

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Apple and Cinnamon Oatmeal (Havermout)
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Recipe overview

  • Servings: 2 bowls
  • Total time: 15min (15min active)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: Dutch
  • Allergens:
    Milk Walnuts
Beginner friendly One pot Kid friendly

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Equipment you'll need

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