This warm and comforting porridge blends sweet apple, earthy carrot, and aromatic spices into a nourishing breakfast that feels indulgent while helping you work toward your 5-a-day. Ready in minutes, it’s a wholesome way to brighten any morning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This porridge is a satisfying twist on a classic breakfast, adding natural sweetness and extra nutrients from fresh fruit and vegetables. The warm spices create a cozy flavor profile, and the entire recipe cooks quickly in the microwave, making it perfect for busy mornings. It’s adaptable, family-friendly, and easily customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
55 g porridge oats
1 small carrot, peeled and finely grated
1 small apple, cored and finely grated
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground mixed spice
2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
330 ml milk (coconut milk drink or any preferred milk)
To serve:
berries
maple syrup
ground cinnamon
Directions
Place the oats, grated carrot, grated apple, vanilla extract, mixed spice, cardamom pods, and milk in a large microwavable bowl.
Stir the mixture well to combine.
Microwave on full power for 2 minutes.
Stir the porridge and, if needed, cook for an additional 20–30 seconds until it reaches your desired consistency.
Divide the porridge between two bowls.
Top with berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a pinch of ground cinnamon.
Make it dairy-free by using almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk.
Add chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts for crunch.
Mix in a spoonful of chia seeds or flaxseed for added fibre.
For extra sweetness, stir in a teaspoon of date syrup or honey.
Add a handful of raisins before cooking for a naturally sweet lift.
Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover porridge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot and creamy.
Porridge thickens as it sits, so additional liquid may be needed to restore the desired texture.
FAQs
Can I cook this porridge on the stovetop instead of the microwave?
Yes, combine all ingredients in a saucepan and cook on low–medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring often.
Can I prepare it the night before?
Yes, assemble the mixture ahead and refrigerate overnight. Cook in the morning, adding extra milk if needed.
Can I omit the cardamom pods?
Yes, simply leave them out or replace with a pinch of extra mixed spice.
Can I use rolled oats instead of porridge oats?
You can, but the cooking time may increase slightly depending on the oat thickness.
What type of apple works best?
Sweet varieties like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work very well, but any apple will do.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, add more maple syrup, honey, or fruit to suit your taste.
Can children eat this porridge?
Absolutely—it’s naturally sweetened and full of nourishing ingredients.
Can I use water instead of milk?
Yes, the texture will be thinner and less creamy, but it still works.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the recipe is suitable.
Why is my porridge too thick?
Porridge thickens as it cools; simply stir in more milk to achieve the consistency you prefer.
Conclusion
This Spiced Carrot & Apple Porridge is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful breakfast that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting start to your day. With its warm spices, natural sweetness, and nutrient-rich additions, it’s an easy way to energize your mornings while enjoying a cozy bowl of goodness.
Spiced Carrot & Apple Porridge is a quick, wholesome breakfast made with grated carrot and apple, warm spices, and creamy oats. Naturally sweet and nourishing, it’s an easy way to start the day with fruit, veg, and comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
55 g porridge oats
1 small carrot, peeled and finely grated
1 small apple, cored and finely grated
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground mixed spice
2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
330 ml milk (coconut milk drink or any preferred milk)
To serve:
berries
maple syrup
ground cinnamon
Instructions
Place the oats, grated carrot, grated apple, vanilla extract, mixed spice, cardamom pods, and milk in a large microwavable bowl.
Stir well to combine.
Microwave on full power for 2 minutes.
Stir and cook for an additional 20–30 seconds if needed, until desired consistency is reached.
Divide between two bowls.
Top with berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Serve warm.
Notes
Use almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Stir in chia seeds or flaxseed for added fibre.
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch.
Include raisins or date syrup for extra sweetness.
Top with toasted coconut for a tropical variation.
