Apple Pear Baked Oatmeal

I made Apple and Pear Baked Oatmeal last weekend - even the uncooked batter smelled so good. It was a tasty (easing me gently into fall) comfort food breakfast. With this being the first day of Autumn, it seemed like a good time to share....

I used homemade vanilla in the recipe. I made two types of vanilla, one with Rum and the other using Bourbon. I add a new vanilla bean from time to time and replenish with alcohol as needed—it certainly gives baked goods a good taste.

I like my oatmeal with a splash of milk or cream, but some enjoy a touch of honey or maple syrup, too.

Apple Pear Baked Oatmeal

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk (I use non-fat evaporated)

• 2 eggs

• 1/4 cup honey - optional

• 1 1/2 teaspoons Apple Pie Spice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/3 cup finely chopped pecans and a few for garnish

• 2 cups Old Fashioned Oats

• 1 pear, cubed

• 1 small apple, peeled and cubed

• 1 small apple unpeeled and thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees

2. In a large size bowl, combine milk, eggs, honey, spices, and vanilla - stir well.

3. Add chopped apple, pear, nuts, and oatmeal -  blend until until combined

4. Pour into greased baking dish - a large deep pie plate is a good size.

5. Top with sliced apple, a few pecans, and a little sprinkle of Apple Pie Spice

6. Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes.

7. The oatmeal will be golden and set when done.

8. Allow to rest 10 minutes before serving.