Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

When you don’t have time to whip up a batch of our pumpkin cinnamon granola for breakfast, there’s still plenty of room for a hearty start to the day.  We know mornings can be a rushed time, getting ready for work and rushing kids out the door for school.  That’s why we say breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be eaten!

Embrace the crisp air and the falling leaves with this stick-to-your-bones breakfast.  Chances are, during this season, you’ll have all the ingredients sitting in your pantry.  If not, make sure to stock up on a few extras on your next trip to the grocery store.  It’s always easier to eat healthy if you’ve got all the right stuff!

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups non fat milk (We also tried it with almond milk and it was delish!)
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 1/2 cups quick oats
• 1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (We threw them in a food processor and let it do the chopping work!)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• Optional toppings: dried cranberries, toasted coconut, more chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions:

• Boil milk and water in a large saucepan.
• Lower the heat to a simmer and add oats.  Then add in all other ingredients.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes, until oats are done and thickened.
• Serve with your choice of toppings and a piping hot mug of coffee.

Stay warm from the inside out all day when you start with this healthy and hearty breakfast.  Make enough for the whole family to join in on a weekend morning, and experiment with a variety of yummy toppings.