Oatmeal is such a wonderful and warming breakfast in the winter months. It’s great for the body, mind and soul. Since oats are dense in carbs, you can balance it out by adding extra protein. It’s rich in soluble fiber, which is important for gut and heart health. When we combine fiber, healthy fat and protein, we feel extremely satisfied.

These Apple Pie Oats will become one of your favorite cold weather breakfast choices. They will take you back to your Grandmother’s kitchen and make you feel like you are sticking your spoon into a delicious and gooey piece of apple pie! Enjoy it mindfully by smelling it, taking small bites, chewing slowly, and reveling in the happy emotions that it stirs. You can even dollop it with a scoop of yogurt to get the a la mode effect.

Here are some other ways to add protein to oatmeal:

Since oats are high in carbohydrates, I like to add an additional protein source to balance it out. The extra protein promotes optimal body composition, slows digestion, and helps to keep you feeling full for longer. Protein powder is an easy way to add protein and flavor, but you could also add protein with any of the following:

• Greek Yogurt
• Nut butter
• Chia seeds
• An egg (just stir it into the oats while they are cooking and make sure to cook them through)

Apple Pie Oats Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats (Gluten free if needed)
• 1/2 cup shredded apple
• 1 cup almond or oat milk (oat milk makes it extra creamy)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• pinch of sea salt
• 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
• Possible toppings: almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, additional shredded apple, coconut shavings, and yogurt

Instructions:

1. Add oats, shredded apple, salt, cinnamon, vanilla and almond milk to a sauce pan and cook over medium low heat until all liquid is absorbed. Make sure to stir occasionally so that the oats don’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
2. Remove oats from the heat and stir in protein powder.
3. Remember we also eat with our eyes! Make it pretty and garnish with additional apple slices and any other toppings that you love.