DIY Instant Oatmeal

 

I love oatmeal for breakfast.  It's hearty but can also be made into so many flavors.  And like most people I buy the little instant oatmeal packets because it's just easier and faster in the morning.  However I also realize that they are just packet of oatmeal and assorted ingredients to flavor them.    So I thought I would give it a try to make my own and see if it would be cheaper as well.  I choose to make mine with some yummy additions but the possible combinations are endless and I urge you to get creative with whatever your taste buds want.

Packaged instant oatmeal averages $0.20-$0.25 a package.  With the ingredients I brought and using 3/4 cup as a serving size my recipe came out to $0.35 a package.  So not necessarily cheaper.  But I also now have leftover ingredients to make it again which will make it cheaper in the long run.  Plus I also know what is in my oatmeal and there are no fillers or artificial ingredients. I made enough for 12, 1/2 cup servings, but you can of course make any size batch you want.

DIY Instant Oatmeal

5 Cups       Quick Oats (You can use half quick oats and half regular oats if you want)

1 Cup        Brown Sugar

1 tsp.         Cinnamon, or Apple Pie Spice

1 tsp.         Salt

3 Pkgs.     Nut Trail Mix (I used Planter's mix with almond, cranberries, and golden raisins)

1.) Reserve 1 Cup of Oats.  Using a blender or food processor, grind the oats gently.  You don't want a fine powder but it should be semi-ground.  This will help to add body to your oatmeal without the use of artificial powdered milk that is in some brands.

2.) In a large bowl mix the oats, and all other ingredients together.  And you are done!  It's that easy!

3.) Put it into whatever container you choose.  It should keep for 3-4 weeks, but more than likely you will eat it before then.  Just make sure not to make a larger batch than you will eat in that time.

* For preparation place 1/2 cup of the oat mixture into a bowl.  Add 1/2-3/4 cup of water and microwave for 1-2 minutes.  The amount of water will depend on how you like your oatmeal.  I like mine more on the thick side so I use 1/2 cup.

Have a great breakfast and remember breakfast is the most important meal of the day!