Overnight guests will love the heartiness of this nutritious cooked cereal that is seasoned with cinnamon and loaded with chopped fruit and nuts. We enjoy it with plain yogurt and blueberries or sliced bananas.

Warm and Fruity Breakfast Cereal is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines a variety of grains, dried fruits, and warming spices. This hearty breakfast option is cooked slowly in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a delicious and satisfying meal to start your day.

Breakfast cereals have been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, often consumed porridge made from various grains as a morning meal. The addition of dried fruits and sweeteners provided additional flavor and nutrients.

Over time, breakfast cereals have evolved and adapted to different culinary traditions. Warm and Fruity Breakfast Cereal is a modern twist on the classic porridge, incorporating a variety of grains, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners to create a wholesome and delicious breakfast option.

PREP: 10 MIN.

COOK: 6 HOURS

MAKES: 10 CUPS

INGREDIENTS

• 5 cups water
• 2 cups seven-grain cereal
• 1 medium apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup unsweetened apple juice
• ¼ cup dried apricots, chopped
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup raisins
• ¼ cup chopped dates
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Chopped walnuts (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a 5-quart slow cooker, combine the water, seven-grain cereal, chopped apple, unsweetened apple juice, dried apricots, dried cranberries, raisins, chopped dates, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the fruits are softened and the grains are tender. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend and develop, resulting in a flavorful and comforting cereal.
3. Once cooked, serve the Warm and Fruity Breakfast Cereal in individual bowls. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts if desired, adding a crunchy texture and extra flavor to the dish.
4. Enjoy the warm and comforting cereal as a delicious and nutritious breakfast option. The combination of whole grains, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners provides a satisfying meal that will keep you energized throughout the morning.

This Warm and Fruity Breakfast Cereal is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits, nuts, or spices to create your own unique variation. Serve it alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy and wholesome start to your day.

TIPS:

• Customize with Additional Toppings: While the recipe suggests adding chopped walnuts, feel free to get creative with other toppings as well. Consider sprinkling some flaxseeds, chia seeds, or sliced almonds for added crunch and nutritional value. You can also drizzle a spoonful of honey or a dollop of yogurt for extra sweetness and creaminess.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The recipe includes maple syrup as a natural sweetener, but the sweetness level can be adjusted according to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter cereal, you can increase the amount of maple syrup or add a touch of honey or brown sugar. Alternatively, if you prefer a less sweet option, you can reduce the amount of sweetener or omit it altogether, relying on the natural sweetness of the fruits.
• Experiment with Different Grains: While the recipe calls for seven-grain cereal, you can experiment with different types of grains to vary the texture and flavors. Consider using a combination of oats, quinoa, barley, or amaranth to add depth and variety to the cereal. Be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts accordingly, as different grains may require different cooking times.