In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, and a pinch of salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy.
While the oats cook, melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon to the skillet.
Sauté the apples for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the fruit is tender and the sugar has thickened into a caramel coating.
Stir the vanilla extract into the finished oats.
Divide the oatmeal into two serving bowls and top with the caramelised apple mixture.