• 3 cups water
  • 3 cups fat-free milk
  • 2 cups whole oats (not instant)
  • 1/2 cup dried cherries, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 5 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pecans, toasted

Preparation
1. Bring first 5 ingredients to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally, 20 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in 4 tablespoons brown sugar and next 3 ingredients. Spoon 1 cup oatmeal in each of 6 bowls. Sprinkle evenly with pecans and remaining 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Serve immediately.