Oatmeal with Dried Cherries, Cinnamon, and Vanilla

My Go-To Power Breakfast: Oatmeal with a Twist

Mornings are crazy, aren't they? Between getting the kids ready for school (or myself ready for the office), making lunches, and trying to squeeze in a quick workout, breakfast often gets overlooked. But I’ve learned that starting the day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast is essential for my energy levels and overall well-being. That's why I've perfected this simple, yet satisfying oatmeal recipe that fits perfectly into my busy lifestyle. It's quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and provides the sustained energy I need to conquer my to-do list.

Forget those sugary, processed breakfast cereals loaded with artificial ingredients. This oatmeal recipe is all about wholesome goodness. I use quick-cooking oats as a base, which cuts down on cooking time significantly. Then, I add a touch of cinnamon for warmth and a hint of sweetness, a dash of salt to balance the flavors, and a tiny bit of stevia extract – just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the dried cherries. The unsweetened almond milk adds creaminess without the extra calories, and the Madagascar bourbon vanilla extract elevates the entire dish with its rich, aromatic notes. And finally, the star of the show: dried cherries! They provide a delightful burst of sweetness and a chewy texture that makes this oatmeal truly special.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Some days, I’ll add a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Other days, I'll top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost. The possibilities are endless! The beauty of this oatmeal is its simplicity – it’s easy to customize to your own preferences and dietary needs. It’s a perfect base for experimentation, allowing you to explore different flavor combinations and toppings to keep things exciting. Whether you're rushing out the door or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch, this oatmeal is a guaranteed way to start your day feeling energized and satisfied.

Why this oatmeal recipe is perfect for busy women:

• Quick and easy: It takes less than 15 minutes to prepare.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Versatile: Enjoy it hot or cold, as a standalone breakfast or as a base for other toppings.
• Cost-effective: Uses readily available and affordable ingredients.

Beyond Breakfast: This recipe isn't just for mornings. It also makes a great snack or a light dessert. The combination of flavors is so comforting and satisfying that it can easily be enjoyed at any time of day. I often make a larger batch on the weekend and store it in the fridge for quick and easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.

This oatmeal recipe has truly become a staple in my kitchen, a reliable source of energy and nourishment that keeps me going. I hope it becomes a favorite in yours as well. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what variations you come up with! Happy cooking!

Step-by-step

• In 2 quart pot stir together oats, cinnamon, salt & stevia.
• Stir in almond milk, water, vanilla and dried cherries.
• Heat to a boil, stir, and reduce heat to simmer.
• Simmer for 9 - 12 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Serve with milk if desired.