We love these breakfast oatmeal squares! Or you can make them circles. Or hearts. Just get a cookie cutter instead of a knife. Whatever shape, this make-ahead breakfast means you’ve got something ready to go on those busy mornings. I don’t know about you, but they’re pretty much all busy around here! We love our 3-minute easy microwave oatmeal, but sometimes I like to make big batches and have them on hand and ready to go. Plus, the way these set up, you can send them into school for snack or lunch. And you can freeze some of these oatmeal squares to have for travel or back-up. I’ve written the recipe below plain so you can dress up the squares however you like. If you like a little sweetness with your morning oats, you can cook the oats in half water, half milk and then add a little honey (or maple syrup or even brown sugar) to the oats after they cook, while they’re sitting in the pot. For my kids, I sometimes stir in a little applesauce (plain or peach) before I chill these. Or a bit of pumpkin and then we top them with peanut butter. You also can top these oatmeal squares with a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, some fresh berries, a smear of peanut butter, a dollop of yogurt - whatever you fancy! If you like your oatmeal savory, keep it plain as instructed below and then top it off with your favorites. I’m partial to eggs and soy sauce, but there’s also cheese, veggies and nuts as good savory toppings. That seems crazy to some people, but I say, don’t knock it till you try it! You can serve these cold (my kids sometimes want them that way) or warm them up in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. You’ll love having these on hand to customize for your crew! And to make your mornings a little easier and less stressful. Enjoy! XO, Kathryn Topping and flavor variations:
Stir in applesauce and cinnamon after oats are cooked.Stir in pumpkin after oats are cooked and after set, top with peanut butter.Stir in peanut butter and top with jam or chocolate drizzle.Stir in honey (or maple syrup or brown sugar) and top with fruit and/or yogurt.Serve savory with eggs and soy sauce, or cheese and veggies.
