Sugar-Free Apple Carrot Oatmeal (Naturally Sweetened)

A wholesome, hearty bowl of oatmeal made with fresh apples, shredded carrots, and warm spices. Think of it as a carrot cake–inspired oatmeal — without the sugar crash!

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not quick-cooking)

• 2 cups water or unsweetened almond milk (or half and half for extra creaminess)

• 1 medium apple, peeled or unpeeled, grated or finely chopped

• ½ cup grated carrots (about 1 small carrot)

• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

• ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• Pinch of salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, but lovely)

• 1–2 tbsp raisins or chopped dates (optional, for extra natural sweetness)

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)

• Extra grated apple or carrots

• Unsweetened yogurt or a splash of milk

• Chia seeds or flaxseeds

• Drizzle of almond butter or peanut butter

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients

In a small saucepan, add:

• 1 cup oats

• 2 cups liquid (water or milk)

• Grated apple and carrot

• Cinnamon, nutmeg, salt

• Raisins or dates (if using)
  Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

2. Simmer & Stir

Reduce the heat to low and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender and the mixture is thick and creamy. Add more liquid as needed to reach desired consistency.

3. Flavor & Serve

Once the oatmeal is cooked, stir in the vanilla extract (if using). Taste and adjust:

• Add more cinnamon if you like

• A splash of milk can mellow out the spice

• Want it sweeter without sugar? Add mashed banana, more apple, or a few extra raisins

Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving – approx.)

• Calories: 220

• Fiber: 5–6g

• Protein: 5g

• Sugars: 0g added sugar, 9–12g natural sugar from fruit

• Fat: 3g

Tips & Variations

• Make it Creamier: Use half milk and half water, or stir in 1 tbsp Greek yogurt at the end.

• Overnight Version: Mix all ingredients in a jar and refrigerate overnight. Eat cold or warm up in the morning.

• Spice it Up: Add ground ginger or a pinch of cardamom for a more chai-like flavor.

• Protein Boost: Stir in 1 scoop of plain or vanilla protein powder at the end or add a spoonful of almond butter.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheat with a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture.