For those days when you’re craving a nice warm piece of apple pie (but don’t have any desire to put the effort into making one) why not whip up a fresh batch of warm apple pie oatmeal?
I’ve never been a huge oatmeal fan but since I’ve started making it for my son I’ve found myself sneaking spoonfuls (or bowlfuls) more often than not. I’ve come to the conclusion that my lack of enthusiasm over oatmeal is most likely due to the lack of flavour and variety of the store-bought ones. If you’ve ever made your own oatmeal then you know that homemade versions are just SO much tastier (and not to mention healthier for you) than the store-bought ones!
Back to the inspiration for this recipe…my son! He LOVES oatmeal and so of course was pleasantly surprised when I served him this the other morning for breakfast. (It’s a good thing I doubled the recipe and had enough for leftovers the next morning!). I also had enough to store some in the freezer for a later date. (Here’s a tip: When reheating oatmeal add some milk or water to rehydrate it and it’s as good as fresh!)
Ingredients
(Yields about 1 cup)
1/2 cup distilled water
1/2 cup instant gluten-free oats (or regular oats)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup yellow raisins
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground flax or chia seeds (optional)
1 tbsp. maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
Bring water to boil in a small saucepan on high heat. Once boiling, reduce to low, add the oats and stir for about a minute until combined.
Add raisins, applesauce (I use unsweetened so that I can adjust the sweetness myself), cinnamon and flax seed to the pot and stir to combine.
Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have thickened and the water is almost completely evaporated.
Garnish with finely chopped pecans for added texture (for older toddlers) and serve warm!
This is a really good one Lisa – as so many parents need great Gluten Free options. Seriously – every time I come to our site I am so inspired! You have a toddler and a baby and you are still whipping up amazing meals all the time. I often put ground flax in my kiddos oatmeal but have never tried Chia – thanks for the idea! Also love the idea of adding applesauce. It’s something that I would have never thought of! AMAZING!!!
Thanks Monica! Does your family eat gluten-free?
I often make a batch of 4 servings on a sunday, portion out, and refridgerate or freeze so I have easy breakfasts. This recipe looks delocious!
That’s the best way to do it! Why make enough for only one portion, right?! I actually think that oatmeal freezes really well too (which I’m sure you’ve noticed!) I add some milk to it, reheat, and it’s as good as new 😉