Overnight oats

Nothing says the day post-Valentine's Day like a fiber-filled breakfast.

;)

But seriously, this breakfast treat is one of my favorites!!

And it is just too darn easy, delicious, & nutritious not to share.

Overnight, Slow Cooker

Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oatmeal

Original recipe {HERE}

What you need:

2 apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)

1 1/2 c skim milk

1 1/2 c water

1 c uncooked steel cut oats (of the Irish variety)

(Note:  Old fashioned rolled oats and/or quick-cooking oats will NOT work)

4 Tbsp brown sugar

1 (heaping) tsp cinnamon

2 Tbsp butter, cut into 6 pieces

1/4 tsp salt

Optional:  2 tsp ground flaxseed

(~ 6 Servings;
Recipe can be doubled, which is great for house guests and/or leftovers!)

Here's how you make it:

1.

Coat the inside of your crock pot dish with cooking spray.

(Skip this step and you will be sorry come cleanin' time.)

2.

Add all ingredients, stir, and cover.

3.

Cook on LOW for 7-9 hours, a.k.a. overnight.

And voila!  You will have the best-tasting oatmeal EVER when you wake up in the morning.  

Yes, it is THAT easy.

Absolutely perfect for those pesky Monday mornings!

(Not to mention your house will smell of apples and cinnamon.  Holla! )

To garnish?
The options are endless.

I like dried cranberries and walnuts.

Sometimes fresh fruit - like bananas, blueberries, or peaches.

My husband simply likes a little more brown sugar and raisins.

Others may prefer maple syrup or a touch more butter/milk.

It's up to you!

You could even set up an "oatmeal bar" if making for house guests.

Fun!

Here is the extra bonus....

Package any leftovers into single servings in microwavable containers.

The next morning, just add a good splash of milk.

Nuke in the microwave for ~ 1:30 (with any toppings you desire).

Boom!  Breakfast ALL week.

~images via the yummylife.com / photo by b~