Looking for a healthy breakfast idea? Try this baked oatmeal recipe and let me know what you think. While it does contain a small amount of sugar (from maple syrup, raisins, and carrots) it is also rich in vitamins, whole grains, fiber, and a little protein from the eggs, nuts, and and dairy.

These can me made a head and packed to go, and they freeze beautifully.

Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal

Ingredients:

• 2 cups oats
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 egg
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 2 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup carrot, grated
• 1/3 cup raisins

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Grease an 8X8 pan with one Tbsp of coconut oil.
3. In a large bowl, combine oats, walnuts, baking powder, cinnamon and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, cream cheese, milk, maple syrup, the remaining oil, and vanilla (small lumps are OK).
5. Add wet ingredients to dry and stir to combine.
6. Fold in carrots and raisins.
7. Pour mixture into pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until set.
8. Let cool for ten minutes, then slice and serve.

Anne McCranie is a Portland (Sellwood), Oregon based Personal Trainer and Licensed Massage Therapist. She offers this recipe to tickle your taste buds. Please see your medical professional for specific dietary advice.