Baked Oatmeal

I made baked oatmeal this morning for breakfast for the first time.  We use the instant oatmeal packets  every once in awhile...they're quick, easy and a nice change from eggs & pancakes.  The baked oatmeal was so much better than instant!!!  Then I came to realization that I have never blogged a breakfast recipe (I've been neglecting the first meal of the day).

If you don't have the time to make baked oatmeal try making it on a weekend and simply reheating on the weekdays. The flavor is well worth the effort!  And did I mention it is hearty?? ... I wasn't even hungry for lunch today.  You can substitute any fruit and/or nuts you like best.  Makes 5-6 servings.

2 cups old fashioned oats
1/2 cup light brown sugar (or 1/4 cup agave nectar)
1/3 cup craisins
1/4 cup blueberries
2 tablespoons slivered almonds
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/2 cups of milk
1/2 cup applesauce (I used all natural, no sugar added)
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
1 large egg

1.  Preheat oven to 375'F.  Spray 8 x 8 baking dish with cooking spray.

2.  Combine oats, sugar, fruits, nuts, cinnamon & baking powder in a large bowl.  In a separate bowl combine milk, applesauce, butter & egg.  Add milk mixture over oat mixture and stir well.  Pour into baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.  Serve warm.  You can top with extra milk if you like a creamier style oatmeal.

Recipe adapted from:  BEB Baked Oatmeal