“Baked Apple” Yogurt

This Baked Apple Yogurt is the definition of a quick and easy breakfast. The apples get soft and tender in the microwave and are coated with cinnamon and brown sugar and are served over a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt and topped with some walnuts for crunch. One of our favorite microwave breakfasts along with this Microwave Oatmeal and Tomato Basil Egg Mug.

Today’s recipe came from simple and humble beginnings, the land of dreams. Let’s suffice it to say, a few nights back I had a dream where apple pie made an appearance and I woke up with an intense craving for apple pie for breakfast. It was clear from the beginning that short of an actual apple pie, only something with cinnamon and melted apples would do. And this recipe was born. Simple, quick, and surprisingly able to shush my apple pie cravings, it makes a perfect protein-packed breakfast or snack in under 3 minutes.

This recipe starts with a microwave version of baked apples that I usually make as a topping for frozen yogurt, a base for oatmeal, or as a treat for the kiddos.  It couldn't be easier and you will be shocked at how delicious the apples turn out.

All you have to do is chop an apple. It works with the skin on or off, totally up to you. Then toss the apples with cinnamon and brown sugar, or the sweetener of your choice. Add a touch of butter if you want to make things more indulgent. Then simply microwave the apples for between 1.5-2.5 minutes depending on the strength of your microwave. You know they are ready when they are tender and you can easily pierce them with a fork. 

From there, it's easy. Add them to a big bowl of yogurt. Although I opted to use non-fat plain Greek yogurt, any yogurt will work. You can use regular or Greek yogurt and experiment with different flavor combinations. I have made it with both vanilla yogurt and coconut yogurt, and it is delicious. It is also sweeter if that is something you like. Then to finish things, I like to add some chopped nuts. I love the combination of walnuts and apples, but any nut will work. You could also add nut butter instead.

Recipe Ideas for Baked Apple Yogurt

• Turn it into a parfait: For company, I like to create beautiful little layered parfaits using this recipe as a base. However, it is important to cool the apples first to make sure the layers stay crisp. You can add some granola as well if you want some crunch. Also, when I do this for a big crowd, I usually use vanilla yogurt since not everyone loves the tang of plain Greek yogurt.
• Add oatmeal: For a heartier breakfast, I like to combine this with a bowl of oatmeal. First I cook the apples and oatmeal together, like in this Microwave Apple Oatmeal recipe, and then add the yogurt and walnuts on top.
• Make it a smoothie: Believe it or not, this makes a pretty delicious smoothie. By cooking the apples first, they blend better. Add some almond milk and ice for a delicious apple pie inspired smoothie.
• Try different fruit: This works with all kinds of fruit. In the fall I usually switch between apples and pears. However, during the summer, I love making it with fresh berries, peaches, and plums. 
• Change up the yogurt: As I mentioned above, one way to change up the flavors is to use different flavors of yogurt for the base. Coconut and vanilla yogurt are our favorite options, but almost anything will work. You can also change it up based on what fruit you use. When I use berries, I love to use lemon yogurt for example.
• Melted nut butter: Instead of nuts, another option is to use a nut butter like almond butter or peanut butter. I like to melt it first in the microwave so I can drizzle it on top and ensure I get some in every bite.
• Meal prep: If you want to make this for meal prep, it works great. To make a larger batch of the apples, you will need to cook them longer in the microwave so they are all able to cook through.  You can also saute them on the stovetop. Then pack the apples with the yogurt. Top with the walnuts right before serving so they don't lose their crunch. They will last 3-4 days in the fridge and make great snacks for school or grab and go breakfasts.