Name: Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup uncooked quinoa; 1 cup almond milk; 1 to 2 cinnamon sticks; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of sea salt; Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and/or ginger, to taste; Toasted sliced almonds; Toasted coconut flakes; Fresh peaches, sliced; Raspberries; Extra almond milk (to serve, if desired); Maple syrup (to serve, if desired)

If you’re on the lookout for a morning meal that’s both comforting and vibrant, the Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful dish blends the nutty texture of quinoa with warm, cozy cinnamon notes and a splash of vanilla, all mingling beautifully with fresh fruit and crunchy toppings. It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for starting your day on a nourishing and flavorful note that feels indulgent but is incredibly healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several small white bowls containing different fresh ingredients. One bowl holds bright red raspberries, another has sliced yellow and red peaches, and a third contains light brown almond slices. There is also a small bowl filled with white chopped coconut flakes and a glass jar with a light creamy liquid. Two whole peaches rest directly on the surface near the bowls, and a white and gray striped cloth is partially visible at the corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for the Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe is wonderfully simple. Each element plays a key role: quinoa provides a protein-packed base, warm spices invite comforting aromas, and fresh fruit brings brightness and color that make every bite exciting.

½ cup uncooked quinoa: The star grain that’s naturally gluten-free and packed with protein, giving this bowl a fluffy texture.
1 cup almond milk: Adds creaminess and subtle nutty flavor, perfect for cooking the quinoa gently.
1 to 2 cinnamon sticks: These infuse the entire dish with that signature warm spice that defines the recipe.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a sweet fragrance that beautifully complements cinnamon.
Sea salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness, a tiny pinch does wonders.
More spices (ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and/or ginger, to taste): Customize the bowl with your preferred warm spices for depth and complexity.
Toasted sliced almonds: Add crunch and a rich, nutty finish that contrasts the soft quinoa.
Toasted coconut flakes: Introduce a subtle tropical touch and extra texture.
Fresh peaches (sliced): Juicy and sweet, they brighten up the bowl and bring natural sweetness.
Raspberries: Tart pops of color and taste that make every spoonful exciting.
Almond milk (optional): To pour on top for a luscious, porridge-like serving or extra creaminess.
Maple syrup (optional): For those who love a touch more sweetness, a drizzle rounds out the flavors perfectly.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold water; this step removes bitterness and ensures a clean, nutty taste. Place the quinoa in a small saucepan along with the almond milk, cinnamon sticks, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Bringing this mixture to a high simmer before covering it and lowering the heat allows the quinoa to absorb flavors and cook gently.

Step 2: Simmer and Infuse Flavors

Let the quinoa simmer gently for 15 minutes, which gives it time to soften perfectly and soak up the warmth of the cinnamon sticks. Afterward, remove the pan from heat but keep it covered so the quinoa continues to steam and absorb any remaining liquid for about five more minutes. This results in a delightfully fluffy texture. Give it a taste and sprinkle in more ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger here if you want to tailor the spice profile to your liking.

Step 3: Assemble Your Breakfast Bowl

Once the quinoa is perfectly cooked, scoop it evenly into two serving bowls. It’s time to pile on the toppings: toasted sliced almonds add crunch, toasted coconut flakes bring a hint of tropical sweetness, and fresh peaches alongside raspberries introduce juicy, vibrant freshness. For a creamier texture, pour on some warm almond milk — or leave it drier and fluffier like a pilaf. A drizzle of maple syrup on top creates a lovely balance of lightly sweetened goodness to round out the bowl.

How to Serve Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe

The image shows a white bowl with four distinct layers arranged side by side: thinly sliced white coconut flakes with a rough texture on the left, small beige quinoa grains with a slightly grainy texture next to it, bright red raspberries with a bumpy surface at the top right, and three curved slices of yellow and dark orange peach with soft, smooth flesh at the bottom right. A spoon is resting inside the bowl on the left side. Around the main bowl are three smaller white bowls: one with extra peach slices, one with red raspberries, and one with almond slices. All bowls are placed on a white marbled surface, and a white cloth with thin gray stripes is to the bottom left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes are what truly enliven the dish visually and texturally. Toasted almonds and coconut flakes not only improve crunch but also add to the nutty and sweet flavor layers. Fresh seasonal fruits like peaches and raspberries make each bite refreshing and colorful, making the breakfast bowl irresistible to both the eye and the palate.

Side Dishes

While the Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe can shine all on its own, pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate your morning. Consider a light green smoothie for an extra boost of nutrients or a crisp slice of whole-grain toast with almond butter for added heartiness and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative with presentation by layering the quinoa and toppings in a clear glass bowl or jar—this showcase of colors and textures makes it perfect for brunch or serving guests. Another fun idea is to sprinkle edible flowers or a dusting of cinnamon powder just before serving for a charming finishing touch that feels special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually meld nicely over time, making the bowl taste even more comforting as the spices continue to blend with the quinoa.

Freezing

Freezing cooked quinoa breakfast bowls is possible but not generally recommended because the fresh fruit toppings lose their texture and the almond milk base may separate when thawed. If you do freeze the base quinoa mixture (without toppings), place it in a sealed container for up to one month and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

When reheating leftovers, gently warm the quinoa on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of almond milk to restore creaminess and prevent dryness. Avoid heating at too high a temperature to keep the texture pleasant and the flavors balanced.

FAQs

Can I use other types of milk for this recipe?

Absolutely! While almond milk gives a lovely nutty flavor and creaminess, you can swap it for oat milk, coconut milk, or even regular dairy milk depending on your preference or dietary needs. Each will subtly change the flavor profile but keep the bowl delicious.

Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making the Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just make sure your quinoa is labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan since it uses plant-based almond milk and natural sweeteners. Just be sure to use maple syrup instead of honey if you want to keep it strictly vegan.

How can I make this recipe more filling?

To bulk up your breakfast bowl, consider adding a spoonful of nut butter, a sprinkle of chia seeds, or a dollop of Greek yogurt (if not vegan). These additions boost protein and healthy fats, keeping you satisfied longer.

What fruits work best as toppings?

While peaches and raspberries are fantastic, feel free to swap with any fresh or seasonal fruit like blueberries, sliced bananas, strawberries, or even cooked apples. The variety of fruit adds natural sweetness and texture contrast that keeps your breakfast exciting.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe enough if you’re craving a breakfast that feels nourishing yet celebratory. It’s simple to whip up, endlessly customizable, and sure to brighten your mornings with wonderful aromas, textures, and colors. Give it a try and let this cozy bowl become one of your go-to favorites for a wholesome start every day.

Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need