Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Raise your hand if this time of year tempts you with all things Pumpkin spice. I'll assume that you all raised your hands...or at least raised your hand in your mind. For those of you who did not...well you aren't human! There, I said it! For all of us who are trying to eat healthy, but are surrounded by pumpkin pie and other delectable fall treats, I present to you, PUMPKIN PIE OATMEAL! 

Okay, So its not as satisfying as pigging out on a fall inspired dessert, but you will be satisfied with making healthier choices while fueling your body with good carbs that help you power through a good workout. Make this an hour or two before you hit a workout and you will have a little extra boost of energy! Pumpkin is a fantastic starch, and what better time than fall to indulge!?!

Here's what you are going to need:
Milk or Almond Milk (1/4 C)
Oatmeal (I used Irish, but also had Gluten free rolled oats on hand if I were making this for my son)
A can of Pumpkin (1/2 C) 
A packet of Stevia
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Ground Cinnamon 

Cook your oatmeal according to package directions, I did mine on the stove using 1/4 C milk and 1/2 C water. Once cooked add in your Pumpkin, Stevia, and Pumpkin Pie spice (just sprinkle it in there) 

Transfer your oatmeal to a bowl and liberally sprinkle the top with Cinnamon. You can also add chopped nuts to the top, but I went the extra mile and made some country apples.

I chopped up an apple and put it in a saucepan over medium heat with some brown sugar and cinnamon, cooked them until the brown sugar created a little glaze and put them on the side.

 My Hubby put them right in his oatmeal saying that they taste much better together than as side items. His recommendation is to chop the apples a little smaller and mix them right into the oatmeal. If you have a sweeter tooth, you may want to add 2 stevia packets instead of 1. do 1 and a half packets into your oatmeal and 1/2 a packet onto your apples.