Works-For-Me-Wednesday: Instant Oatmeal Mix Again

It's another edition of Works-For-Me-Wednesday over at We Are THAT Family! Today's theme is Greatest Tips/Hits. This was one that I published back in June and was one of my more popular WFMW posts. I think it applies even more now as people are really making an effort to be frugal.

Here are some tips to keep your costs as low as possible when making mixes like these:

- Make in bulk and keep in large container rather than making individual baggies

- Buy dried fruits, spices, and anything else you can in the bulk foods section

- Buy off-brand oats, creamer, etc.

Here is the original post:

I have fond childhood memories of the packets of instant oatmeal - still like it! My husband and son like oatmeal, too...but in our house there's only time for instant. Rather than spending the $ on bunches of packets, I found a recipe to make a batch of the instant stuff to keep on hand. Much cheaper! We always have this available for breakfast.

Instant Oatmeal Mix

18 oz. quick-cooking oats (about 7 cups)
3.2 oz. nonfat dry milk (about 1-1/3 cups)
2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 cup raisins (I like to use dried currants 'cause they're smaller)

In large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well. Transfer to airtight container. For breakfast: Scoop 1/2 cup oatmeal mix into bowl. Add 1/2 cup water. Microwave on high for 1 minute. Rest for 5 minutes. Makes about 16 servings.


A few months ago, I found another yummy version of an instant oatmeal mix in The Mason Jar Soup-to-Nuts Cookbook:

Apple Oatmeal Mix

6 cups quick-cooking oatmeal
1 cup coarsely chopped dried apples
1 cup powdered nondairy creamer
1 cup brown sugar
4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons salt

Combine ingredients in large bowl. Store in airtight container. For breakfast: Place 1/2 cup oatmeal mix into bowl, add 2/3 cup boiling water, and stir gently until well mixed. Let stand for 2 minutes to thicken; stir again. Makes about 16 servings.

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Hope that comes in handy for you! Be sure to stop by WFMW for more greatest tips/hits!

Do you have any other instant oatmeal mix versions to share?