Most of us have been told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I am on board with that statement, because the days I have breakfast tend to be more productive than the days I skip it.

Here I present to you my creamy apple cinnamon oats. I know what you’re thinking: oatmeal? Couldn’t you do any better than that? Yes, I could give you my french toast bake recipe, waffles, or any other amazing breakfast food, but I genuinely love these oats. They are not the traditional packet of instant oatmeal that tastes either bland or artificial. These oats are rich, creamy, and loaded with flavour. I promise they will leave you full and satisfied.

INGREDIENTS

1 medium apple

2 tsp.cinnamon

1 2/3 cup water

1/3 cup instant oatmeal (not a flavoured instant package)

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/3 cup liquid egg whites (about 2 large egg whites)

Pinch of salt

1 tbsp. peanut butter

DIRECTIONS

Chop the apple into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are all roughly the same size. Place in a small pot with one teaspoon of cinnamon and just enough water to cover the apples halfway. Cook over medium heat until apples are tender. Depending on the kind of apple you use, you may need to add a bit more water to prevent the apples and cinnamon from sticking to the pot. Once tender, set the apples to the side in a small bowl.

In the same pot, add oatmeal, the remaining teaspoon of cinnamon, vanilla, and 2/3 cup water. Cook on medium-low heat until all of the water is absorbed. Once the water is absorbed, remove the pot from heat and add a cup of cold water. Using cold water will temper the oats and prevent your egg whites from cooking too quickly. Add egg whites and whisk vigorously to incorporate them fully before returning the pot to the stove.

Continue cooking over medium for about five to seven minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent the oats from sticking. Once the water is absorbed and the oats are looking creamy, add in the cooked apples. Stir and allow to cook for another minute.

Pour your creamy oats into a bowl, top with peanut butter, and enjoy!