OVERNIGHT OATMEAL JARS WITH LAST-MINUTE STIR-INS

FOR THE P.M. BASE

4 cups (1 L) of quick-cooking or large-flake rolled oats

4 tablespoons (60 mL) of maple syrup, brown sugar or honey

1 teaspoon (5 mL) of cinnamon or your favorite baking spice

1 teaspoon (5 mL) of pure vanilla extract

½ teaspoon (2 mL) of salt

4 cups (1 L) of any milk (dairy, soy, rice or nut)

2 cups (500 mL) of your favorite frozen fruit (berries, tropical or tree)

FOR THE A.M. TOPPING

2 cups (500 mL) of your favorite yogurt (optional)

¼ to ½ cup (60 to 125 mL) of maple syrup, brown sugar or honey

1 cup (250 mL) of crispy crunchy nuts or seeds

Measure the oats, syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, salt and milk evenly into four 1-pint (500 mL) mason jars. Seal the jars and give the works a good shake. Top with a thick layer of frozen fruit. Chill overnight (or even for 2 nights).

In the morning, top off the smoothly transformed oatmeal with yogurt (if desired), a splash of sweet syrup and your crunch of choice. If dashing out the door with breakfast, don’t forget to grab a spoon!