Fall is upon us!

If you had asked me four years ago what my favorite season was, I would have said spring without a doubt. But ever since I started this blog, I’ve become slightly obsessed with fall. The flavors, the colors, the temperature… and the sweaters. Who could forget the sweaters!?

Fall just makes me want to wrap myself in a blanket and get cozy. And fall mornings are a PRIME example of this. Pretty much every morning when I wake up my bed feels like a warm, cozy heaven. And the idea of touching my ice cold floor and starting my day just does not appeal to me.

So, I usually have to bribe myself.

And what better way to bribe yourself than with a steaming bowl of oatmeal?

Or, in my case, a steaming mug of oatmeal!

I think eating your breakfast in a mug in the fall is basically the most perfect idea… ever. Your hands are going to be freezing (dang it cold mornings!) no matter what, so why not conserve heat by just gripping the handle of a mug, instead of wrapping them around a bowl (which is probably going to burn your palms just out of the microwave anyways). Plus, it’s just adorable!! Pretty much a pinterest-worthy idea. And if you’re eating on the go, you can easily put the mug in the cup-holder of your car instead of balancing a bowl on your knees as you drive.

And this Apples & Cinnamon Oatmeal is the perfect breakfast to enjoy out of a warm & cozy mug! Think of the Quaker Oats oatmeal packs, but a more filling serving size and less added sugars. (Actually… no added sugars!) This oatmeal is basically apple pie in a mug. And topped with honey and almond milk… oh my Lord, you can’t get much better than that.

This has definitely become one of my go-to fall recipes. It’s super easy to make (just one bowl, which you can just toss in the dishwasher after you’re done… so NO CLEAN UP HALLELUJAH!) It basically embodies every part of fall:

Warm, cozy, and apple pie!

Apples & Cinnamon Oatmeal

• 1/2 c rolled oats
• 1 c water
• 1/4 c chopped apple (about one small apple)
• 1 tsp stevia
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp vanilla

If making in the microwave, combine all ingredients in a large, microwave safe bowl. Microwave for 4 minutes, or until all the water’s been absorbed. Top with honey, walnuts, or simply enjoy as is!

If making on the stove, combine all ingredients in a small saucepan. Cook for 6 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (from myfitnesspal.com)

Calories: 206

Fat: 3g

Carbs: 41g

Protein: 6g

(Yields 1 servings)