Do you need a cheap and easy breakfast idea? If you have an intolerance to oats or can’t handle the sticker shock of quinoa this may be the perfect whole grain breakfast rice for you.
As the mornings grow colder and the aroma of cinnamon and spices fills the air, there’s no better way to start the day than with a warm and comforting bowl of breakfast rice. Cinnamon apple raisin breakfast rice is a delicious twist on classic oatmeal, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that transform ordinary rice into an indulgent morning treat. This plant-based breakfast option is perfect for those who love starting their day with something hearty, healthy, and full of fall flavors.
The Perfect Fall Breakfast
There’s something magical about the combination of cinnamon, apples, and raisins. This trio is synonymous with fall and winter, evoking memories of apple picking, holiday baking, and cozy mornings spent indoors.
- Cinnamon, known for its warming properties, has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries. It’s believed to help stabilize blood sugar levels, making it a great addition to breakfast dishes.
- Apples bring a natural sweetness and slight tartness, adding freshness and balancing the spices. They are also rich in fiber, particularly pectin, which supports healthy digestion.
- Raisins add a burst of sweetness and a chewy texture, complementing the softness of the cooked rice. They are high in natural sugars and provide a quick energy boost, making them a perfect ingredient for breakfast.
These ingredients come together in a symphony of flavors, creating a dish that tastes delicious. This has been a family favorite for weekend breakfasts for about a decade. But if your family is used to Fruit Loops they may need a little more sweetener than this recipe includes. I love that I can make this with pantry staples.
I say this was a weekend breakfast because it takes about 45 minutes to cook brown rice. Now we will make a large pot and reheat leftovers quickly. Even my 4 year old who has been very picky lately LOVES this. I also have an Instant Pot version for a more hands off approach!
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Raisin Breakfast Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown rice (I prefer short grain)
- 4 c water
- 1-2 cups plant milk
- 1 Tbsp cinnamon
- 1 diced apple
- 1/4 cup raisins (or other dried fruit)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook Rice
Pour rice, water and cinnamon into large sauce pan and cook over medium heat set timer for 45 minutes.
Step 2 – Add Apples and Raisins
When there is 15 to 20 minutes left add 1 cup plant milk, diced apples and raisins then give it a good stir. Once the timer goes off the rice should be soft, most or all of the liquid will be absorbed and the apples will be soft.
Step 3 – Serve
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving, stir in extra plant milk if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon apple raisin breakfast rice can be served in various ways to suit different preferences:
- Classic bowl: Enjoy it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top and a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- On-the-go option: For busy mornings, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it throughout the week. Store it in individual containers for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
- Dessert-style: Turn leftovers into a cozy dessert by serving them chilled with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream.
Breakfast Rice Variations to Try
One of the joys of breakfast rice is its adaptability. Once you master the base of cinnamon, apples, and raisins, the possibilities are endless:
- Nutty Delight: Add a handful of toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for extra crunch. Nuts not only enhance the texture but also provide healthy fats and protein, making the dish more filling.
- Berry Twist: For a burst of color and flavor, try adding fresh or dried berries. Cranberries, blueberries, or strawberries can introduce a tangy note that contrasts nicely with the sweet raisins.
- Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices. Cardamom, nutmeg, and ginger can add depth and complexity, giving the dish a unique twist.
- Coconut Dream: Sprinkle some shredded coconut on top for a tropical flair. Paired with coconut milk, this variation can transport your taste buds to a sunny beach, even in the middle of winter.
- Creamy Indulgence: For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of plant-based yogurt or a splash of cream just before serving. This adds richness and makes the dish feel extra indulgent.
Cinnamon apple raisin breakfast rice is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and warmth to your morning routine. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet weekend or preparing it for a busy weekday, this dish offers a nourishing start to your day. It’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something special.
More Plant Based Breakfast Ideas
If you love this recipe, you’ll love these breakfast ideas too:
- Chocolate Chip Breakfast Cookies
- Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats
- Baked Oatmeal Bars with Fruit
- Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats
- Oatmeal Cups
Cinnamon Apple Raisin Breakfast Rice
Start your day with a warm, comforting bowl of cinnamon apple raisin breakfast. A cozy, plant-based delight full of sweet apples, juicy raisins, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown rice (I prefer short grain)
- 4 c water
- 1-2 cups plant milk
- 1 Tbsp cinnamon
- 1 diced apple
- 1/4 cup raisins (or other dried fruit)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Pour rice, water and cinnamon into large sauce pan and cook over medium heat set timer for 45 minutes.
- When there is 15 to 20 minutes left add 1 cup plant milk, diced apples and raisins then give it a good stir. Once the timer goes off the rice should be soft, most or all of the liquid will be absorbed and the apples will be soft.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving, stir in extra plant milk if needed.
Notes
Add a little liquid when reheating leftovers.
I’d love it my latte 😉 Sounds pretty close to what we have every day 😀
We have had it so long that I didn’t think about posting it until now. 🙂
Comforting and yummy! This would be a nice change from our usual oatmeal and I almost always have some cooked brown rice in the ‘frige.
It’s a perfect way to use up those small amounts of leftovers, a little rice, a little quinoa, maybe some fruit and nuts.
Brilliant to use short-grain brown rice as an alternative to oats. I made this recipe today, and I think it’s superb! I may use it as a dessert too, it’s tasty like a rice pudding! Thank you!
I’m glad you like it Michele! Since my little guy can’t have oats this is a nice change of pace and not as messy as Breakfast Quinoa. I’ll be posting a pumpkin version next month. 🙂
This would be awesome for me and my baby!!! I’m just trying to come up with ideas for his breakfasts!
He is a cutie! My boys (2 and 4) LOVE this! You can’d go wrong with Cinnamon, Apple and Raisins. 🙂
I am wondering, do you think this could be converted to be cooked in an Instant Pot? I just got mine for Christmas, so I’m still getting the hang of using it. I just found your site, and everything looks amazing so far!
Yes it could but I haven’t don’t it yet. I will try to do it this weekend if I get a chance.
I think 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of water. If you add fruit while it cooks it will get reeaaaallllly soft so I’d add it after along with 1 cup of plant-milk and cinnamon.
If you try it first let me know how it turns out. 🙂
Did I do something wrong? With 5 minutes to go, it was burning on the bottom and the rice was till crunchy.
HI Gina,
I’m not sure. I use short grain brown rice that usually takes 45 minutes to cook. Check the package on your rice to see how long it recommends cooking. You may also try turning the temperature down and covering it with a lid.
You don’t have the total calories for each recipe
How would you go about re heating this delicious meal
Hi Lacy,
We just reheat in the microwave. If you feel like it needs a bit more liquid, you can add plant-based milk or even a little water and stir well.
Dr. John McDougall has this near-same recipe in his Maximum Weight Loss book. It’s a baked recipe, but essentially the same, plus lemon juice and minus the milk. It’s so good. I’m going to make it your way next time. Thank you for sharing it with us.