Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Oatmeal Recipe
If you’re looking for a nutritious and convenient breakfast, you’ll love this slow cooker oatmeal recipe. I can’t tell you how many busy mornings I’ve faced, wishing for a warm, filling meal without the hassle.
This recipe lets me prep everything the night before, so I wake up to the delightful aroma of maple and cinnamon. It’s packed with fiber, keeps me full, and is easily customizable with my favorite toppings.
Plus, the slow cooker does all the work while I sleep! Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never want to go back to instant oatmeal again.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Oatmeal
When it comes to making a cozy breakfast, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of slow cooker oatmeal. Imagine waking up to the sweet scent of maple syrup and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, inviting you to the breakfast table. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and the best part? You can set it and forget it while you dream away the night.
This oatmeal isn’t just about taste; it’s packed with nutrients that will keep you energized for the day ahead. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to cook up some deliciousness.
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful slow cooker oatmeal:
- 1 cup steel cut oats (dry)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 cups milk (or vanilla almond milk)
- 2 – 3 vanilla beans (or 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons ground flax seeds
Before you jump in, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. Steel cut oats are your best friend in this recipe because they hold their texture beautifully, giving you that hearty chew.
If you’ve got a thing for vanilla, don’t skip the beans — the flavor is so much richer than extract. And while maple syrup brings the sweetness, feel free to adjust it based on your taste. Maybe you like it a bit sweeter or prefer to let your toppings do the talking.
Speaking of toppings, think about what you love! From bananas and chocolate to nuts and dried fruit, the options are endless. Just remember to grease your crockpot well; nobody wants a sticky morning surprise.
How to Make Slow Cooker Oatmeal
Making slow cooker oatmeal is about as easy as it gets, and trust me, your future self will thank you for this cozy breakfast treat. First things first, grab your trusty crockpot and let’s get started. You’ll want to grease the pot with either 1 tablespoon of butter, margarine, or coconut oil — trust me, this is an essential step unless you enjoy the thrill of scraping oatmeal off the sides like you’re on a cooking show challenge.
Now, let’s talk ingredients. In your greased crockpot, add 1 cup of steel cut oats, which are the real stars of this dish, providing that wonderful chewy texture. To those oats, pour in 1 1/2 cups of water and 2 cups of milk, or if you’re feeling adventurous, some vanilla almond milk. The subtle sweetness of the almond milk can work wonders.
Next, let’s bring in the flavor: toss in 2 to 3 vanilla beans (or 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla extract if you’re short on time), 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of ground flax seeds. Give everything a gentle stir, but don’t overdo it. You want to mix them just enough to combine the flavors without creating a messy whirlpool.
Once everything is in the pot, it’s time for the magic to happen. Put the lid on your crockpot and set it to low. Now, here’s where the real beauty of slow cooking comes in — you can go to bed and let the oatmeal cook for 8 to 9 hours. Yes, that’s right. While you dream of breakfast bliss, your oatmeal is transforming into a creamy, dreamy bowl of goodness.
When morning arrives, the first thing you’ll notice is that delightful aroma filling your kitchen, a sweet invitation to start your day. Serve it up in bowls and don’t forget to top it with your favorite goodies, whether that’s bananas, a sprinkle of chopped chocolate, or a handful of nuts. The world is your oyster, or in this case, your oatmeal.
Slow Cooker Oatmeal Substitutions & Variations
Ever wondered how to switch things up with your slow cooker oatmeal? I love experimenting with different ingredients!
Swap out steel cut oats for rolled oats if you prefer a creamier texture. You can also use any milk alternative, like coconut or soy milk, for a unique flavor. For sweetness, try honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup.
Adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the taste, too. Want a fruitier twist? Toss in dried fruits or fresh berries right before serving.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your slow cooker oatmeal!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Oatmeal
What can elevate your slow cooker oatmeal experience? I love adding a variety of toppings to customize each bowl.
Fresh fruits like bananas, blueberries, or chopped apples add a burst of flavor and nutrition. For crunch, I sprinkle on some almonds or pecans. If I’m in the mood for something sweet, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of dark chocolate pieces does the trick.
Dried fruits like figs or raisins also make great additions. Finally, a dollop of yogurt or a splash of cream can create a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Enjoy exploring these delicious combinations!
Additional Tips & Notes
Although slow cooker oatmeal is simple to prepare, a few additional tips can enhance your experience. First, don’t skip greasing the crockpot—it’s essential to prevent sticking.
I love adding a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness. If you want extra creaminess, try incorporating a splash more milk. For a delightful twist, experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
Remember, the longer it cooks, the thicker it gets, so adjust the water if you prefer a runnier texture. Finally, topping your oatmeal with fresh fruit or nuts right before serving makes it feel special.
Enjoy your breakfast!