Step 1

In a small saucepan, combine oats and milk. Simmer until liquid has absorbed into the oats, stirring frequently to prevent burning, for about 8 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, in a separate small saucepan, spray coconut oil cooking spray or other nonstick cooking spray or add 1 teaspoon oil; heat over medium heat. Add the diced apple chunks and spray apple with cooking spray. Stir in a dash of cinnamon or apple pie spice and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft.

Step 3

Once oats are cooked, remove from heat and stir in apple pie spice (just plain cinnamon will work if that's what you've got). Stir in protein powder last, if using. I like to add about 1/4 cup milk while stirring in protein powder.

Step 4

Top oatmeal with apples, nut butter and chopped pecans. Enjoy!