Fast & Easy Shortcake-Inspired Oatmeal

Oatmeal tends to be a polarizing breakfast, one people either rave about or refuse to consume. For those in the latter category, it may conjure school-morning memories, the saccharine sweetness of artificial strawberry, or just a whole lotta bland nothingness. What many oatmeal-deniers don't realize is how truly versatile this grain is. Not only is it good for you, but it makes the ideal vehicle for any number of flavor combinations.

That's where we come in with our recipe for Shortcake-Inspired Oatmeal! Unlike Oatmeal, Shortcake is more of a people-pleaser—who among us doesn't like it? Our recipe doctors up the oatmeal with almond milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup to create a creamy base; once topped with berries and a crunch of slivered almonds for texture, it's a winner!

Did you try this recipe? Have other oatmeal combinations you want to share?

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• 2 cups raw oats
• 4 cups almond milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 cup fresh sliced strawberries
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds

1. In a medium-sized pan, combine oats, almond milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Cook over medium heat until the almond milk reaches a bubble, then reduce heat and continue cooking while stirring frequently. Once liquid has been absorbed and oats are softened, about 10 minutes, turn the heat off.
2. In a pan over medium heat, toast almonds until they have begun to turn golden and are fragrant. Transfer to a bowl so they won't burn in the hot pan.
3. Wash your berries and slice the strawberries. In a bowl, top a helping of oats with fresh berries and toasted almonds. You can add an additional drizzle of maple syrup if you like your oatmeal sweet!

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