If you crave a comforting breakfast that practically cooks itself, slow cooker oatmeal is the answer. Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm apples and cinnamon laced through creamy oats—it’s the perfect start to a busy day or a lazy weekend morning. This Cozy Apple-Cinnamon Pie Slow Cooker Oats recipe is simple, fuss-free, and endlessly comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- 3 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 cup water
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup
Instructions
Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking. Combine the steel-cut oats, milk, water, diced apples, brown sugar (or maple syrup), cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt directly in the slow cooker. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Allow the oats to cook for 6–8 hours overnight or throughout the day. While you rest or tend to other tasks, the slow cooker works its magic, slowly tenderizing the apples and turning the oats velvety soft.
When you’re ready to serve, gently stir the oats to distribute the apple pieces and creamy texture. Serve in bowls, and top with chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or an extra drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet finish.
This recipe is a dream for anyone looking to streamline their morning routine or sneak in a little extra warmth during cooler seasons. Steel-cut oats are full of fiber and take on a luscious creaminess when slow-cooked, while sweet apples and cinnamon create a delicious, pie-like flavor. If you prefer to cut back on sugar, reduce or omit the sweetener entirely. For a dairy-free option, choose almond, oat, or coconut milk. Mix and match toppings to keep breakfast fresh and exciting. Whether you’re pulling this together for busy school mornings or relaxing weekend brunches, these Cozy Apple-Cinnamon Pie Slow Cooker Oats deliver a nourishing, hands-off breakfast that everyone can enjoy.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
