📖 Instructions

1. Begin by gathering all of your ingredients and equipment. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk (or water), and a pinch of salt. Give it a quick stir to combine everything evenly. I like to use a wooden spoon for this, but any spoon will do.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oatmeal has thickened to your desired consistency. Don’t let it boil too hard—a gentle simmer is key.
4. While the oatmeal is cooking, zest and juice the orange. Set aside. If you are using fresh cranberries, rinse them and coarsely chop them. If using dried, set them aside as well.
5. Once the oatmeal is cooked, remove it from the heat. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, cranberries (fresh or dried), and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey to taste. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors. At this point, feel free to sneak a little taste and adjust the sweetness if needed!
6. Ladle the oatmeal into bowls. Top with chopped walnuts, an extra sprinkle of orange zest (if desired), and a final drizzle of maple syrup or honey. The walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the citrus and cranberries perfectly.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Cranberry Orange Oatmeal with Walnuts! This oatmeal is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for a day or two, though the texture might change slightly.