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Jessica T. Brown

Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa

A warm, plant-based porridge featuring protein-rich quinoa cooked with apples, dates, raisins, and cinnamon in an Instant Pot. Creamy, comforting, and fiber-packed, it’s a perfect dairy-free breakfast for busy mornings or meal prep.
Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Dairy-free, Gluten-Free, Plant-based

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa uncooked, rinsed if not pre-washed
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup rice milk or other plant-based milk
  • 1 medium organic apple cored and chopped
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 4 Medjool dates pitted and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • 1 Instant Pot® Multi-Use Pressure Cooker
  • 1 Long-Handled Spoon
  • 1 Measuring Cups (set)
  • Peeler & Corer
  • 1 Heat-Resistant Spatula

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Quinoa Base: Begin by placing the rinsed quinoa into the Instant Pot inner pot. This will serve as the hearty foundation for your porridge.
  2. Add the Liquid and Fruits: Pour in the water and rice milk, followed by the chopped apple, raisins, and dates. These ingredients will infuse the quinoa with natural sweetness and texture.
  3. Flavor with Vanilla and Cinnamon: Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon, distributing the spices evenly to ensure a warm and aromatic flavor profile.
  4. Seal and Set the Instant Pot: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and adjust the timer to 12 minutes on high pressure.
  5. Cook and Release Pressure Naturally: Once the cooking cycle finishes, turn off the Instant Pot and allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 to 20 minutes. This gentle release helps maintain the porridge’s creamy texture.
  6. Open and Stir: Carefully open the lid and use a long-handled spoon to stir the porridge thoroughly, blending all the flavors together and ensuring a smooth consistency.
  7. Adjust Consistency and Serve: If desired, add additional plant-based milk to each serving to reach your preferred thickness. For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle with your favorite chopped nuts before serving.

Notes

  • Rinsing Quinoa: If your quinoa isn’t pre-rinsed, rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove the natural coating that can taste bitter.
  • Milk Variations: Rice milk is thinner than some other plant milks. If you substitute almond, oat, or soy milk, consider adding an extra 1/4 cup for a creamier porridge.
  • Natural Sweetness: The dates and raisins provide natural sweetness, so there’s no need for added sugar. Adjust fruit quantities to suit your taste.
  • Meal Prep Tip: This porridge stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats nicely with a splash of milk.