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Apple Cinnamon Quinoa " Cereal"

Love oatmeal, but not gluten? This has the warmth and nostalgia of apple cinnamon oatmeal and is a wonderful way to prepare this nutritious “grain”. A yummy, nutritious way to start the day, and even the kids will love it!

4.5 · 7 reviewsRecipe card by Sesquipedalian SappEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
BreakfastVeganLow CholesterolToddler FriendlyKid FriendlyFree Of...
Apple Cinnamon Quinoa " Cereal"

Total time

20 min

Servings

4

Calories

165.8

Category

One Dish Meal

Start your morning on a healthy note with this warm, comforting Apple Cinnamon Quinoa 'Cereal'. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein, this quick breakfast is a sophisticated, nutrient-dense upgrade to traditional oatmeal that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

  • 1/3 quinoa
  • 2/3 water
  • 1 granny smith apple
  • 1/4 raisins
  • 1/4 cashews
  • 2 -3 cinnamon
  • 1 soy margarine
  • 1 -2 maple syrup

Method

  1. Rinse Quinoa well to ensure your dish doesn’t have a bitter taste.

  2. In a small sauce pan, bring water and Quinoa to a boil.

  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer (uncovered) for 10-15 minutes (or until water is absorbed). You will know that the quinoa is done when all the grains have turned from white to transparent, and the spiral-like germ has separated.

  4. In a separate sauce pan, while Quinoa is cooking, melt soy margarine, then add raisins, nuts, cinnamon (and syrup, if desired) and simmer until raisins are plumped.

  5. When Quinoa is fully cooked, add fruit and nut mixture. Serve immediately.

Cook's notes

  • Rinse your quinoa thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter.
  • For a creamier 'porridge' texture, let the cooked quinoa sit covered for 5 minutes off the heat to absorb the remaining liquid.
  • Toast your quinoa in the dry pot for 2-3 minutes before adding liquid to unlock a deeper, nuttier flavor profile.
  • Add a splash of your favorite plant-based milk right before serving to achieve your desired consistency.

Easy swaps

  • Use almond, soy, or oat milk to keep the recipe vegan and creamy.
  • Swap maple syrup for agave nectar or coconut sugar if preferred.
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and healthy omega-3 fats.
  • Substitute fresh diced apples with pear or dried cranberries for seasonal variety.

Frequently asked

Is this quinoa cereal gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this a safe and healthy breakfast option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. Simply cook a large batch on Sunday and portion it out for quick 'grab-and-go' breakfasts throughout the week.

Is this recipe toddler-friendly?

Yes, it is soft, easy to chew, and the natural sweetness from the apples and cinnamon makes it a hit with picky eaters.

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