A warm and wholesome breakfast bowl made with fluffy cinnamon-spiced quinoa, sweet roasted plums, and creamy Greek yogurt. It’s a nourishing, protein-rich way to start the day, with comforting flavors and natural sweetness from the fruit. This elegant yet simple dish is both satisfying and energizing, perfect for a cozy morning or a refreshing change from the usual breakfast fare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl offers a unique and nutritious twist on traditional breakfast. It’s gluten-free, high in protein, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup and roasted plums. The blend of warm spices, creamy yogurt, and caramelized fruit delivers both comfort and balance. It’s an ideal option for meal prepping, and it can be customized easily to suit various dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the quinoa:
- 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 cup water or almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
For the roasted plums:
- 2 ripe plums, halved and pitted
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of thyme leaves (optional)
For serving:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
- Extra maple syrup or cinnamon for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the plum halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Brush with coconut oil and drizzle with maple syrup or honey. Sprinkle with thyme if using. Roast for 15–18 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- While the plums roast, combine quinoa and water (or almond milk) in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and stir in cinnamon and optional maple syrup.
- Divide the quinoa into bowls, top with roasted plums, and add a generous spoonful of yogurt.
- Drizzle with extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired. Serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 18 minutes
Total time: 23 minutes
Variations
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added texture and nutrition.
- Fruit Swap: Substitute roasted plums with roasted peaches, apples, or figs depending on the season.
- Extra Protein: Stir a spoonful of protein powder into the cooked quinoa or top with a handful of hemp seeds.
- Spiced Quinoa: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or vanilla extract for deeper flavor.
storage/reheating
Store leftover quinoa and roasted plums in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the quinoa in a saucepan or microwave with a splash of milk or water. Roasted plums can be served cold or gently reheated. Add yogurt just before serving to maintain its texture and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute with cooked oats, farro, or millet. Quinoa is used for its light texture and high protein content.
Do I have to roast the plums?
Roasting enhances their sweetness and brings out a rich, caramelized flavor, but you can use raw plums for a fresher taste.
Can I make this breakfast bowl ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the quinoa and plums in advance, then reheat and assemble with yogurt when ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
What type of yogurt works best?
Plain Greek yogurt provides creaminess and protein. You can also use dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt.
How do I prevent quinoa from tasting bitter?
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can be bitter.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes, this breakfast bowl can be enjoyed cold, especially during warmer months. Just assemble and chill before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe doubles easily and is great for meal prepping breakfasts for a few days.
Is maple syrup necessary?
No, it’s optional and can be adjusted or replaced with honey, agave syrup, or omitted entirely if preferred.
Can I add spices to the roasted plums?
Yes, spices like cinnamon, cloves, or star anise can add depth to the flavor of the roasted plums.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl with Roasted Plums & Yogurt is a wholesome, balanced, and delicious way to start your day. Its combination of warm grains, roasted fruit, and creamy yogurt offers both comfort and nutrition in every spoonful. Versatile and easy to prepare, this breakfast is ideal for busy mornings or slow weekends alike. Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, it’s a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Print
Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl with Roasted Plums & Yogurt
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Roasting, Simmering
- Cuisine: Modern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy, nutrient-rich breakfast featuring cinnamon-infused quinoa, roasted plums, and creamy Greek yogurt. Balanced with natural sweetness and protein, it’s a wholesome start to the day.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 cup water or almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
- 2 ripe plums, halved and pitted
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of thyme leaves (optional)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
- Extra maple syrup or cinnamon for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place plum halves cut-side up on a baking dish. Brush with coconut oil and drizzle with maple syrup. Sprinkle with thyme if using.
- Roast for 15–18 minutes, until soft and caramelized.
- Meanwhile, bring quinoa and water (or almond milk) to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and fluff quinoa with a fork. Stir in ground cinnamon and maple syrup.
- In serving bowls, add the warm quinoa, roasted plums, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Drizzle with extra maple syrup or sprinkle with cinnamon if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use dairy-free yogurt for a fully vegan option.
- Substitute peaches, nectarines, or figs for plums based on seasonality.
- Make the quinoa in advance for quick assembly on busy mornings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
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