Apple cinnamon steel cut oatmeal sounds like a seasonal breakfast dish, but it is actually one of my favorite quick and hearty breakfasts on a cool spring Sunday morning when I just want to cuddle on the couch watching TV and sipping hot coffee. I am a big fan of Irish steel-cut oats given their fiber content and versatility, and I often like to experiment with different kinds of fruit, juices, and flavors.

Many brands of steel-cut oats are not naturally gluten-free, so you may need to look out for a certified GF label when buying these if you have Celiac disease or are extremely gluten-sensitive. Luckily I have never had issues eating regular oats or steel-cut oats so I just opt for Trader Joe’s brand, which cook in only seven minutes. When I do try to buy GF Irish oatmeal, I usually can’t find the quick-cook kind. I don’t like spending 20 minutes in the morning standing over the stove stirring my breakfast, so if you can’t find the quick-cook version either, regular quick-cook oatmeal will work great in this recipe.

I also add some applesauce for that extra apple flavor and chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, but these are not necessary for a yummy bowl of hot apple cinnamon oatmeal if you don’t have them on hand.