Warm as a Christmas hug.

There’s something grounding about a bowl of oatmeal on a chilly December morning. The smell of cinnamon and apple fills the kitchen, and suddenly the chaos of holiday prep slows down for just a moment.

Welcome to Day 5 of our 25 Days of Simple Christmas countdown! Today we’re making Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Mix—a pantry-friendly, whole-food staple that will keep your mornings cozy, easy, and nourishing.

This mix is perfect for those hectic December days when the calendar is overflowing but you still want to serve something wholesome and comforting. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a hot, fragrant breakfast in minutes.

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A Loving Family Memory

One year, during the first week of December, my kids and I woke up to the soft crunch of snow outside. I made a big batch of this apple cinnamon oatmeal, and we ate it in our pajamas while the Christmas tree lights twinkled in the background.

My oldest kept stirring in a little extra cinnamon, claiming it “made it taste like magic,” while my youngest kept sneaking apple chunks before breakfast was even ready. We sat at the table, mugs of warm apple cinnamon tea for the grown-ups, bowls of oatmeal for the kids, and talked about the plans for the day.

That morning wasn’t perfect—there were spilled oats, a dog begging for scraps, and a toddler throwing a spoonful of cinnamon in the air—but it felt perfect. Cozy, warm, and simple. That’s what the holidays should feel like.

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Why Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Mix Belongs in Your Pantry

1. Quick, nourishing breakfasts

With your mix ready, all it takes is hot water or milk for a satisfying start to the day.

2. Whole-food ingredients

No refined sugars or preservatives—just oats, dried apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness.

3. Makes the holidays easier

Prep in bulk, store in jars, and enjoy breakfast ready to go on even the busiest mornings.

4. Family-friendly

Kids love the sweet, familiar flavor, and it’s a great way to get a little fruit in their day.

5. Cozy tradition

Every bowl becomes a ritual of warmth, conversation, and connection.

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Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Mix (Whole-Food Version)

Ingredients

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup dried apples, chopped small
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped apples, coconut sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Store: Keep in an airtight jar or container in the pantry for up to 3 months.
3. To serve: Add 1/2 cup oatmeal mix to 1 cup boiling water or milk. Stir and let sit 1–2 minutes until thickened. Top with extra apples, nuts, or a drizzle of honey if desired.

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Ways We Love to Enjoy This Oatmeal Mix

• Morning ritual: Serve in bowls with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a little warm milk.
• On the go: Pack in jars for a quick breakfast while running errands.
• Holiday breakfast: Pair with homemade muffins or a cinnamon roll from Day 25 for a festive spread.
• Gift idea: Jar it with a ribbon and a handwritten tag for neighbors, teachers, or friends.

Every spoonful is like a hug from the inside out. It’s simple, wholesome, and exactly what you need on a busy holiday morning.

Day 5 is complete! Tomorrow, we’ll move to Day 6: Gingerbread Cookie Mix—full of flavor and zero fuss, ready for decorating or gifting.