Cinnamon and apples are pretty much right up there with pumpkins for evoking autumnal goodness.  This time of year I can't get enough of apples and cinnamon--I find a way to use them for everything from cocktails to my breakfast, to a quick snack and even dinner!  

The best part about this recipe here is that while it may conjure up the flavors of an apple pie--apples cooked in sugar and ghee, topped with nutty oats and spices--it is healthier for you.  I sometimes use homemade granola to finish off this meal and give it the additional crunch that a crisp offers. 

Ingredients:

1 cup multi-grain oats

2 tablespoons chia seeds

2 tablespoons almond meal

2 tablespoons flax seed meal

3 teaspoons cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ginger

3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups milk

4 apples, chopped

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon ghee

1/2 cup granola (optional)

In a saucepan, heat ghee until melted and then throw in chopped apples.  Allow to cook on low until softened and lightly browned, about ten minutes.  Then add 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon and all of the brown sugar and cook for another 5 minutes, until sugar has coated apples.  Set aside to cool.

Mix all dry ingredients (including remaining cinnamon) except the granola together in a bowl and set aside.  In a separate bowl, mix together all the wet ingredients until combined.  Then begin to add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients slowly, until thoroughly mixed.  Finally, stir in cooked apples.  Divide mixture evenly between 4 mason jars and let sit overnight in fridge. Top each mason jar meal with 1/8 cup of granola before serving (optional).  Makes 4 servings.  Enjoy!