Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Pecan Oatmeal

I am sorry for the lack of updates lately. My mother had surgery a couple of weeks ago and is still at a rehab facility getting better every day! I have been running around like a mad woman visiting her, washing her clothes, finding books for her and also taking care of my husband and household. I have been exhausted, to say the least, and haven't really been cooking. If I have cooked it has been the most basic and simple things known to man. Like grilled cheese sandwiches. If y'all need a recipe for grilled cheese sandwiches then you need more help than I can provide. :-)

One thing that I really like to do is to make hot breakfasts on the weekends, especially if my husband isn't working. During the week we grab muffins that I thaw from the freezer or granola bars so it is nice to have something warm once in a while. It is even better when I can make a healthy, filling breakfast that is cheap!

Penny for penny homemade oatmeal is one of the best things that your money can buy. First of all, it is cheap! I have gotten all kinds of deals this winter for old fashioned rolled oats, my oatmeal preference. Second of all, oatmeal is very, very healthy. I'm not a nutritionist so if you want more information I suggest you consult Dr. Google as I have heard it called (by OHmommy of www.classychaos.com she is hilarious!).

Here's my own recipe for oatmeal

1 apple (use your favorite)
1 3/4 cups milk
big pinch of kosher or sea salt
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)
1 cup old fashioned quick cooking (not instant) oats
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped pecans

1. Peel, core and finely dice apple. Set aside.

2. In a medium sauce pan heat milk to boiling. Add in the dried cranberries, the cinnamon and the apple while milk is heating up.

3. Once the milk is boiling add in the oats. Reduce heat and stir often until cooked, 3-5 minutes. If you notice the oats look very dry right away you may need to add a bit more milk, up to 1/4 cup more.

4. While the oats are cooking toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, watching them very carefully. They will burn quickly so err on the side of under toasted if this is your first time toasting nuts on top of the stove.

5. When the oats are done, remove from heat and allow to sit for a couple of minutes. Dish up into bowls and top with toasted pecans.

It doesn't get much easier, cheaper, healthier or yummier than this!

What is your favorite breakfast food? Do you have any time saving tips for making a hot breakfast during the week? I would love to hear from you!