Baked Oatmeal

It has been WAY too long since my past post and I officially have no excuse not to anymore. Spring break is here, exams are done (and have been for about a week) and i have plenty of time on my hands.

Every time I go out to breakfast I always judge just how good a place is based on their oatmeal. I'm can imagine this doesn't make much sense since oatmeal is just cooked oats right? There really is a difference though. I can say that the best oatmeal I've ever had was high spot cafe in Madrona. It's a pretty plain breakfast item, but it is one of my favorites. I was searching around for something exciting that had oatmeal in it and I came across this baked oatmeal. I'm not sure if you can count this as traditional oatmeal, but if so this has become my new favorite and I had to share it.

2 cups uncooked oats (not instant)

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

1-2 tsp cinnamon depending on how much you like it (i liked the full 2)

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup raisins

2 tbsp dried cranberries

1 tsp baking powder

1 1/2 cups milk

1/2 cup applesauce

1 1/2 tbsp melted butter

1 egg, beaten

1 tsp vanilla

-Preheat oven to 350F

-Combine all the dry ingredients in a large bowl (this includes the brown sugar). Then mix the applesauce, egg, butter and vanilla in a separate bowl. Add the two mixtures and stir well to coat.

-Pour mix into a greased 8 inch square baking dish

-Bake for 20 minutes or until golden

-Serve when its still warm

*I found it was even better with a little warm milk poured over top with any extra added toppings. ENJOY!

-Mel