Cherry Almond Oatmeal
Cherry Almond Oatmeal brings a touch of luxury to a basic breakfast. Two forms of cherry, dried tart cherries and cherry preserves, give this oatmeal a sweet-tart balance with a subtle boost from vanilla and cinnamon. Chopped whole almonds deliver a nutty crunch that really stands out.
EQUIPMENT
- medium sized saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cup water
- 2 Tablespoons half-and-half
- ¼ cup dried cherries chopped
- ¼ cup whole almonds chopped
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 heaping Tablespoon cherry preserves
- ¼ tsp vanilla
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Add water and half-and-half to medium saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the liquid in the saucepan – cherries, almonds, oats, cherry preserves, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine ingredients thoroughly and smooth out the cherry preserves.
- Adjust heat for gentle steady simmer and cook uncovered for 5 minutes. If needed, simmer for another minute to thicken the oatmeal to your liking.
Notes
- One heaping tablespoon of cherry preserves provides subtle sweetness. Use 2 heaping tablespoons for more cherry sweetness, and bolder pink color.
- Use toasted almonds if you’re so inclined. I’ve also used candied almonds with good results. Here's some guidance on toasting almonds.
- A small pour of maple syrup upon serving would be delightful.
- Whole milk would be a good substitute for half-and-half.