CHERRY ALMOND SLO COOK OATMEAL

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup dried tart cherries
• 1 apple, peeled and grated (approx. 1 cup grated); or 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 1-1/2 cups water
• 1 cup uncooked steel-cut oats
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1-1/2 tablespoons butter, cut into 5-6 pieces, optional (omit or substitute margarine for lactose-free, vegan)
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 tablespoon ground flax seed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional garnishes: toasted sliced almonds, maple syrup, additional almond milk or butter

Directions

Coat inside of 3-1/2 quart (or larger) slow cooker with cooking spray. Add all ingredients (except optional toppings) to slow cooker. Stir, cover, and cook on low for 7 hours. Spoon oatmeal into bowls; add optional toppings, if desired. Store leftovers in refrigerator. Freezes well.

To reheat single servings: Put 1-cup cooked oatmeal in microwave proof bowl. Add 1/3 cup almond milk. Microwave on high for 1 minute; stir. Continue cooking for another minute, or until hot.

Recipe can be doubled in 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Increase cooking time 1 hour.

Weight Watchers PointsPlus: 5 pts per 3/4 cup serving