Spiced Cinnamon & Date Quinoa Porridge

Cozy Spiced Cinnamon & Date Quinoa Porridge You’ll Crave Every Morning

When mornings call for warmth, comfort, and nourishment, this Spiced Cinnamon & Date Quinoa Porridge is the answer. Whether you’re searching for a healthy quinoa breakfast or just need a new gluten-free porridge recipe, this bowl delivers everything you’re looking for—rich flavor, natural sweetness, and satisfying texture all in one.

Medjool Date Inspiration

This recipe was born on a brisk autumn morning, inspired by two ancient ingredients that have nourished cultures for centuries: quinoa and dates. Their unique textures and flavors combine beautifully with cinnamon and nutmeg to create a porridge that feels both traditional and modern. It’s cozy enough for weekend mornings and simple enough for weekdays—a perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love It

• Naturally sweetened: No refined sugar—just rich, caramel-like Medjool dates.
• High in protein and fiber: Thanks to quinoa, it’s a filling and energizing start.
• Easy to make: Comes together in just 25 minutes with minimal prep.
• Perfectly spiced: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth.

Quick Grocery List

For the Quinoa Porridge:

• Quinoa
• Unsweetened almond milk (or preferred milk)
• Water
• Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Sea salt
• Vanilla extract

For the Date Sweetener:

• Medjool dates
• Hot water

For the Toppings (optional):

• Chopped dates
• Toasted almonds or walnuts
• Maple syrup or honey
• Ground cinnamon
• Fresh fruit (bananas, berries)

Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal

Prep & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment Checklist:

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Small bowl
• Fork or mini blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Dietary Adjustments:

• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free.
• Vegan: Use plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat.
• Nut-Free: Avoid nut toppings or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.

Serving Size:
Serves 2 generous portions.

General Notes

• Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness from saponins.
• Adjust consistency at the end by adding more milk if needed.
• Let the porridge sit covered for 5 minutes off heat to naturally thicken.

Healthy Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Porridge with Dates – Vegan, High-Protein & Naturally Sweetened

DifficultyEasy

Servings2

Prep time10 minutes

Cook time20 minutes

Total time30 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Quinoa Base:

• ½ cup quinoa, (rinsed thoroughly)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, (or plant milk of choice)

For the Spiced Date Mix:

• 6 Medjool dates, (pitted and chopped)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom, (optional)
• ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp maple syrup, (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch sea salt

For the Toppings (optional but recommended):

• Chopped toasted almonds or walnuts
• Fresh fruits, (banana slices, berries, or apple chunks)
• Drizzle almond butter or tahini
• Extra splash of plant milk

Instructions:

• 1

  Cook the Quinoa:

  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer.
  2. In a saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and almond milk.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover.
  4. Simmer for 15 minutes until quinoa is soft and most of the liquid is absorbed.
• 2

  Prepare the Spiced Date Mix:

  1. While quinoa is cooking, add chopped dates, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, maple syrup, vanilla, and a pinch of salt to a small pan with 2 tablespoons of water.
  2. Cook on low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dates are soft and mixture is syrupy.
• 3

  Combine & Simmer:

  1. Once quinoa is cooked, stir in the date mixture.
  2. Cook uncovered on low heat for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy and well combined.
  3. Add a splash more almond milk if needed to loosen the porridge.
• 4

  Serve:

  1. Divide porridge into bowls.
  2. Top with chopped nuts, fresh fruits, a drizzle of nut butter, and more plant milk if desired.

Equipment

• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing quinoa)
• Medium saucepan (for cooking quinoa)
• Small skillet or saucepan (for warming date mixture)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula for stirring

Nutrition

Calories	320
Carbohydrates	52g
Cholesterol	0mg
Fat	9g
Fiber	7g
Protein	8g
Saturated Fat	1g
Sodium	105mg
Sugar	20g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	8g

Substitutions

• Almond milk → Oat, coconut, soy, or dairy milk
• Medjool dates → Dried figs, raisins, or mashed banana
• Cinnamon stick → 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Maple syrup → Honey or agave

Variations

• Stir in a scoop of protein powder for a post-workout option.
• Add chia or flax seeds for additional fiber.
• Top with cocoa nibs or shredded coconut for a different flavor profile.

Let’s Get Cooking

Step 1: Make the Date Sweetener

• Use hot water to soften dates quickly.
• Blend for a smoother texture if you prefer.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

• Keep heat low after boiling to avoid scorching the milk.
• Cover tightly to let quinoa steam to perfection.

Step 3: Sweeten and Finish

• Stir in vanilla and date paste off heat for maximum flavor.
• Add more milk gradually for a looser porridge.

Step 4: Serve & Top

• Use a mix of textures—nuts, fruit, syrup—to create an Instagram-worthy bowl.

Art Of: Perfecting Quinoa Porridge

The key to making creamy quinoa porridge is simmering on low heat and using a good ratio of milk to water. Unlike oats, quinoa doesn’t become mushy, so giving it enough time to soak up the flavor is essential. Using dates instead of sugar brings a depth of flavor while keeping things natural. For best results, use Medjool dates, which are softer and sweeter.

Tips and Variations

• Add a pinch of cardamom for a floral note.
• Swap in apples or pears for fall-inspired toppings.
• Use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Add chopped dark chocolate for a dessert-style breakfast.
• Stir in Greek yogurt for creaminess (if not vegan).

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290 – Great for a balanced breakfast without feeling heavy.
• Carbohydrates: 45g – Energy-boosting carbs that are naturally sweetened.
• Cholesterol: 0mg – Completely cholesterol-free and heart-friendly.
• Fat: 6g – Mostly from healthy unsaturated sources.
• Fiber: 6g – Supports digestion and keeps you full longer.
• Protein: 8g – Ideal for a plant-based protein start to your day.
• Saturated Fat: 1g – Minimal and mainly from the milk used.
• Sodium: 120mg – Low in salt, making it suitable for most diets.
• Sugar: 14g – Derived from dates and fruit—not refined.
• Trans Fat: 0g – Free from unhealthy fats.
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g – Contributes to a balanced heart-healthy diet.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Add 2–3 tbsp of milk per serving and heat on the stovetop or microwave until warm.
Freezing: Not recommended, as quinoa may become watery upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I prepare this the night before?
A: Yes! Reheat in the morning with extra milk.

Q: What if I only have pre-cooked quinoa?
A: Use 1 ½ cups of cooked quinoa and reduce the liquid.

Q: Can I use steel-cut oats instead?
A: Yes, but adjust cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly.

Q: What’s the best milk to use?
A: Almond milk is great, but any milk—plant-based or dairy—works well.

Q: Is it good for meal prep?
A: Absolutely. Make a double batch and portion it out for the week.

Engage and Share

Did you make this Spiced Cinnamon & Date Quinoa Porridge? Let us know in the comments below! Rate the recipe, tag us in your creations, or share it with a friend who needs a breakfast upgrade.

Looking for more warm breakfast recipes? Check out some of these!

• Crispy Za’atar-Spiced Chickpea Waffles with Tahini Drizzle
• Creamy Cardamom & Pistachio Chia Seed Pudding
• Carrot Cake Pancakes with Cream Cheese Drizzle