Overnight French toast

There is nothing better than waking up on a cold morning and having a nice warm breakfast waiting for you.  Now, that never happens to me, but my husband and kids get that all the time. Here is an easy casserole that you make the night before and just pop it in the oven on a chilly morning. If you have a larger family, you can certainly double the recipe. ( I do this, and sometimes put a single serving away for my college girl) A friend even said that she mixes some Nutella in with the cream cheese and it makes it extra special.  

1 8oz block cream cheese, softened
3 TBSP sugar
8 slices cinnamon-swirl bread ( cinnamon raisin)
4 eggs
1/2 c milk
1/2 tsp vanilla
3 cups berries of choice
Powdered sugar

Spray 8x8 pan with cooking spray. Mix cream cheese and sugar until well blended.; spread on all slices of bread.  Place 4 bread slices, cream cheese side up in prepared pan. Cover with remaining bread, cream cheese side down. ( like making a sandwich) Whisk eggs, vanilla and milk until well blended. Pour over bread. Cover and refrigerate. Bake uncovered in a 350 oven for 30-35 minutes or until center is soft and top is golden brown. Serve with mixed berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Oatmeal with fresh berries

I just recently became obsessed with homemade oatmeal.  I always thought it took so long to make, stirring constantly on the stove. Truth is, it is quick and simple. 

Measure one cup of milk into a small saucepan, add a pinch of salt, and 1/2cup of old fashioned oats. Cook over a medium heat, stirring constantly, until the oatmeal absorbs most of the milk. I add a teaspoon or so of brown sugar after it is done cooking. Top with your favorite berries or Any other favorite fruit. 

Simple, delicious, and heart healthy.