Sticky Date Oatmeal

If you have never tried Sticky Date Oatmeal, or some other version of it, then please, make it one of your first priorities immediately. Or even better, eat it now. This oatmeal is probably one of my favorites, which is surprising seeing as how it doesn't contain chocolate. The first time I tried Sticky Date Oatmeal I was like "meh", but that was most likely because I did not add enough dates. Yes, it is defiantly not wise to skimp on the dates. As they soak and warm up in the oatmeal, they become all soft and caramel-y...Who would want to have less of that??? Anyways, the second time I tried, I used a better amount and promptly fell in love. I rarely ever eat the same oatmeal recipe twice, but I've already eaten this one two times in one week! Well, now I suppose it's quite obvious that I definitely recommend giving this recipe a shot.

Sticky Date Oatmeal with banana, homemade cookie dough nut butter, kiwi, and blackberries.

Sticky Date Oatmeal
-1/2 c oats
-1 c milk of choice
-3 Medjool dates, chopped
-1/2 tsp vanilla extract
-1/2 banana (other 1/2 can be used for topping)
-1/2 tbsp chia seeds

Directions:
In a small saucepan, bring your milk to a boil, then add the oats, chopped dates, and chia seeds. Reduce the heat to about medium low, and let some of the liquid be absorbed for a couple of minutes. While you wait, mash the 1/2 banana well. Once most of the liquid has been soaked up, add the mashed banana and vanilla. Once the oatmeal has reached your desired consistency, transfer it to a bowl and top with left over banana, and whatever else you might want.