Oatmeal is such a cheap, versatile breakfast staple, but it often gets overlooked or made much more expensive by those boxes of little convenient packages. Sometimes it feels like the only way to get them to eat oatmeal is if it’s those doctored up, flavored packets filled with wannabe fruit.

Frustrated moms, let me give you hope. There is a way to give your children the full benefits of oatmeal and real fruit while saving money. It may take some time, but it is possible.

If your troop is revolting against Rolled Oat/Old Fashioned Oats (which holds the most nutrition) then you may need to ease them in gradually. Start with 3 parts instant oats, 1 part rolled oats. Gradually work your way to half and half all the way until your kids are doing only Rolled Oats.

A great way to make the oatmeal tastier and give them some extra fruit, here are some of the extras I add in:

Brown Sugar

Molasses

Honey

Raisin

Dried Cranberries (any dried fruit Really)

Strawberries (frozen or fresh)

Blueberries (frozen or fresh)

Diced apples or applesauce

Pecans

Cinnamon

I always use a generous serving of honey and a little brown sugar (for that darker flavor) and then whatever fruit I want to add.

If you combine these two tips you should have awesome success and your grocery budget will thank you!

What do you like in your oatmeal?

I’m linking The Homestead Barn Hop and Tasty Tuesday!