Skip the spoon, you'll use a fork to eat this tasty oatmeal breakfast dish topped with vanilla yogurt.

Baked Oatmeal with Dates

2 3/4 cups old fashioned oats
2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 cup dates, raisins or dried cranberries
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 1/3 cups milk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Vanilla yogurt for accompaniment (optional)

1. Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch baking dish with vegetable shortening.
2. Combine oats, sugar, dates, cinnamon and salt in a large bowl, mixing well.
3. Combine milk, eggs, butter and vanilla in a medium bowl, mixing well. Add to dry ingredients; mix until well blended. Pour into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake 55 to 60 minutes or until center is set and firm to the touch. Cool slightly
5. Serve topped with vanilla yogurt, if desired.

Makes 8 servings.