Cinnamon Oatmeal Smoothie

Having trouble rolling out of bed in the mornings in time to make breakfast? Need something quick to fill you up and start your day? Try either of these oatmeal smoothies, packed with fiber, healthy fats and protein. Almost tastes like eating oatmeal cookies n' cream for breakfast!

Benefits of eating rolled oats:

• Provides high levels of protein and fiber, which will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Has positive effect on cholesterol levels.
• Contains lignans which protect against heart disease and cancer.
• Contains antioxidants beneficial for heart disease.
• Boosts immune system.
• Stabilizes blood sugar.
• Gluten friendly.
• Protects against breast cancer.
  

Cinnamon Oatmeal Smoothie

1/4 c rolled oats, uncooked
1 c almond coconut milk

2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Dash of turmeric

1 tsp agave nectar (or 1 packet stevia)

1 apple, cored

3/4 c ice cubes

Oatmeal Smoothie #2

1/2 c rolled oats, uncooked

1 tbsp almond butter (or peanut butter)

1 c almond milk

1 tbsp flax seeds

3/4 c ice

1 tsp vanilla extract, optional
1 packet stevia

Combine all ingredients in blender until smooth. Sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.

All photographs are actual pictures of the recipe listed, prepared by Sweet Treats 'n Good Eats, and cannot be used without the owner’s consent.

Oatmeal Raisin Pancakes

I have been in the mood for cinnamon all day today so I started out my morning with these oatmeal raisin pancakes. These pancakes are nutty, have a nice texture, and taste just like an oatmeal raisin cookie! If you desire less texture and prefer a smoother batter, soak the oats in the buttermilk overnight and add the remaining ingredients the following day.

Oatmeal Raisin Pancakes

2 eggs
1 1/2 c whole wheat flour (or combine whole wheat with spelt or AP flour)
1/2 c old fashioned oats
2 c buttermilk
2 tbsp brown sugar (or one packet Stevia)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
4 tbsp butter, melted
½ tsp vanilla extract
1/3 c raisins, finely chopped

Place oats in buttermilk and let stand. Whisk dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Combine buttermilk mixture with dry ingredients. Add butter, flavoring and raisins and mix well. Batter will be lumpy.

Preheat griddle or cast iron pan. Brush with butter. Ladle batter onto griddle or into pan. Cook on the first side until bubbles form and begin to pop. Flip the pancake and cook until golden brown. Keep cooked pancakes warm until ready to serve, in a 200 degree oven.

All photographs are actual pictures of the recipe listed, prepared by Sweet Treats 'n Good Eats, and cannot be used without the owner’s consent.