Breakfast Time

Although the temptation to continue kvetching about the inconvenience and outright boredom of being quarantined is strong, I thought might offer something everyone can enjoy. Lots more people are cooking at home these days, often preparing three meals a day for themselves or their families. There's been a shortage of flour since more and more people are baking bread, including some folks who have never attempted to turn out a loaf.

I've never had the patience for yeast breads. The only exception is a stollen I make every Christmas. It's loaded with butter, dried fruits and nuts and dusted with powdered sugar. A thin slice with coffee is heaven. My baking output tends toward scones, muffins, quick breads and pancakes. Years ago, I found this gem on the back of an oatmeal box. It's amazingly quick, takes only one bowl and contains no butter or oil, so they're good for you. The ingredients are mostly things you will find in your pantry and fridge. My grandchildren, especially Noah, love them and my husband enjoys them too. ​I hope you'll give these a try.

Oatmeal Pancakes

Two eggs, beaten
! cup plain yogurt
1 cup low-fat milk
1 1/4 cups quick-cooking oatmeal
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 t. baking powder
1 t. salt
1 T honey
1/2 tsp. cinnamon

Beat the eggs in a medium-sized bowl and add the yogurt and milk, stirring to combine. Add all the dry ingredients to the milk mixture and stir to combine, then add the honey and cinnamon. Heat an electric griddle to 375 degrees. Depending on your griddle, you may need to grease or use non-stick spray. Using a 1/4 cup measure, pour the batter for each pancake onto the griddle. When the surface is covered with small bubbles and the edges look a little dry, flip the pancakes and cook for a few minutes more until the underside is light brown. Serve with butter, maple syrup or put a little jam in the center and roll up. Makes about 16 pancakes. Any leftovers will keep in the refrigerator or freeze and microwave later.

P.S. If you want to accomplish this quickly, place all the dry ingredients in a ziplock bag the night before. Stay well, my friends.

---