Growing up we always had cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning as a special treat. As an adult, I prefer to spend my Christmas splurge on dinner, so I try to keep my breakfast slightly healthier but still in the same holiday spirit. I recently came across this recipe on Pinterest for cinnamon roll oatmeal and figured this would be the perfect blend of nutrition and holiday tradition. While this recipe calls for way more sugar than I would ever recommend, I was able to modify the base with less sugar and omitted the refined white sugar. The cream cheese glaze and cinnamon swirl was prepared as recommend so that I wouldn't compromise the texture. The glaze and swirl are essentially a sugar base, but you have control over how much you add to each bowl, thus making it a sensible breakfast for special occasions or weekends. The original recipe yields two servings, but I easily made this into four to keep the portions in check and offer leftovers for future mornings or a chilly afternoon snack. Just throw the other servings into a masson jar, or favorite glass Tupperware, and heat up as needed in the microwave. This breakfast bowl pairs well with a side of fruit, turkey sausage or with pecans sprinkled on top for a protein and texture punch. Ingredients for the oatmeal -1 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk -2 tablespoons brown sugar -1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract -1/4 teaspoon salt -1 1/2 cup old fashioned rolled oats (always a staple in my pantry!). Ingredients for the cinnamon swirl -2 tablespoons melted butter -3 tablespoons light brown sugar -1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon Ingredients for the cream cheese glaze -1 oz light cream cheese -1 tablespoon unsweetened almond milk -1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract -5 tablespoons confectioners sugar For the oatmeal (base) -Add milk, brown sugar, vanilla and salt in a large saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. -Stir in oats, return to a boil and continue to cook, stirring occasionally for 3-5 minutes. -Cover and remove from heat.
For the cinnamon swirl -In a small bowl mix butter, brown sugar and cinnamon until combined.
For the cream cheese glaze -Microwave the cream cheese in a small bowl for about 10 seconds -Stir in confectioners sugar until combined -Stir in milk and vanilla until creamy Put it all together -Divide oatmeal into four separate bowls (or other containers if saving for future use). -Top oatmeal with desired amount of brown sugar and drizzle desired amount of cream cheese glaze.
Check out this link for more breakfast bowl ideas. Merry Christmas!