Maple Raisin Cookie Oatmeal

 

This recipe that tastes just like a cookie! Real, 100% pure maple syrup is the star of this recipe, and not only does it provide a sweet taste to the oatmeal, it provides some pretty tasty benefits as well! Maple syrup (a sap from the maple tree) is made of...

...sugar that the tree uses as food but also has many antioxidants and minerals. The compounds found in maple syrup have been linked with cancer prevention and overall health.

Antioxidants help the human body to fight off cancer-causing cells that are created as part of the body's metabolism. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of these compounds, but it has been determined that maple syrup also provides these compounds.

Additionally, maple syrup has zinc and calcium.  Low levels of zinc in the blood have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Maple syrup can be used as one source of this zinc to help lower an individual's risk.

Our bodies need calcium to build strong bones and prevent the development of osteoporosis. Calcium is most concentrated in sources such as milk and yogurt but can also be found in small quantities in foods (like spinach, greens and maple syrup). So you enjoy this sweet oatmeal, and feel good about what makes it so tasty, too!

Maple Raisin Cookie Oatmeal:

1 cup old-fashion rolled oats

2 cups water

1 tbsp. pure maple syrup

2 tbsp. raisins

2 tbsp. sweetened shredded coconut

1 tbsp. chopped walnuts

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

Toast coconut in a dry skillet over low to medium heat until fragrant and slightly golden-brown. Set aside. Cook oatmeal in water according to package directions. Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Divide evenly into 2 bowls and top with raisins, toasted coconut, and walnuts. Enjoy while warm. Serves 2.

Nutrition facts per serving: 292 calories, 7g fat, 2g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 16mg sodium, 50g carb, 6g fiber, 14g sugar, 8g protein, 4% Daily Value for Calcium, 13% Daily Value for Iron. 

 

---

---