love all things fall....

a must try for this autumn.....
pumpkin oatmeal!


1 cup old fashioned oats (not quick cook)
1 Tbs whole flax seeds (optional)
2½ Tbs brown sugar, packed
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp allspice
⅛ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp vanilla
½ tsp lemon zest
2 tsp butter, softened
¾ cup pumpkin puree
¾ cup milk

Topping:
¼ cup pecans, chopped
2 tsp butter, softened
1 Tbs brown sugar

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease 4 individual-sized ramekins. Set aside.
2. Combine the oats, flax seeds, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Stir well.
3. Zest the lemon.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the vanilla, lemon zest, butter, pumpkin, and milk. Whisk thoroughly. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the oat mixture. Stir until combined.
5. Divide the mixture evenly between 4 individual-sized ramekins. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet (this makes it easier to move in and out of the oven.). Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, combine the ingredients for the topping: chopped pecans, butter, and brown sugar. After the oatmeal has baked for 10 minutes, remove and divide the topping mixture evenly between the ramekins. Bake an additional 7 minutes.
7. Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Top with a splash of milk and raisins, if desired