Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal

There’s something truly magical about waking up to the aroma of a warm breakfast wafting through the house, and that’s exactly what you get with Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a chilly autumn morning, and I was craving something hearty yet wholesome. I tossed a few simple ingredients into my slow cooker the night before and woke up to a delightful surprise that set the perfect tone for the day.

As the weather cools and leaves change colors, I find myself reaching for comforting dishes that warm not just the body but the soul. The combination of tender apples, creamy oats, and warm spices instantly transports me to cozy fall gatherings, where laughter and warmth fill the air. This Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal is the perfect dish to gather around during those family brunches or busy weekday mornings, as it’s not just filling but also incredibly easy to prepare.

In addition to its comforting flavors, this recipe is entirely customizable. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, you can tweak it to suit your taste buds. I often invite my kids to help me add their favorite toppings, from crunchy nuts to drizzles of honey, making it a fun activity that brings us together in the kitchen. I promise, once you try this delightful oatmeal, you’ll want to make it part of your regular breakfast rotation!

Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal Ingredients

When crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. Each component plays a role in creating that comforting, flavorful bowl.

• 1 large apple or 2 small – I typically use Gala or Fuji apples for their sweetness and firm texture.
• 2 cups rolled oats – Whether you choose regular or gluten-free, these oats provide the hearty base for your breakfast.
• 3 cups milk of choice – I prefer using unsweetened vanilla almond milk for added flavor, but feel free to use whole milk or any other dairy.
• 1 cup water – You can use all milk for a creamier oatmeal, but a blend works beautifully.
• 2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey – This natural sweetener enhances the flavor of the dish.
• 1-2 Tbsp brown sugar – Adjust to your taste; more if you like it sweeter.
• ⅔ cup apple sauce – This adds moisture and boosts the apple flavor.
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract – A splash of this makes everything better.
• ½ – 1 Tbsp cinnamon – Essential for that warm, comforting flavor.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg – Just a pinch adds depth to the warming spices.
• ½ tsp sea salt – Balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 2-3 Tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts – For a delightful crunch!

The Method for Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal

Making Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal is as easy as pie! Just follow these simple steps to create a deliciously creamy breakfast that will fill your home with warm, inviting aromas.

1. Start by preparing your apples. Core and chop the apple into bite-sized pieces. Personally, I keep the skin on for added nutrition, but if you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to peel them.

2. Next, spray the slow cooker with oil or grease it with butter to prevent sticking. This ensures you’ll have a lovely, clean bowl of oatmeal when it’s done.

3. Now, combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, except the pecans and walnuts. Stir everything together gently to ensure the oats are evenly distributed with the liquid.

4. Cover and set your slow cooker to low, cooking for about 2 to 3 hours. The cooking time may vary based on your preference for oatmeal texture. If you like it creamier, aim for a longer cook time, but if you enjoy a bit of chewiness, check it closer to the 2-hour mark.

5. As it cooks, you’ll notice that the apples soften and the oats absorb the liquid, creating a lovely, creamy texture. Keep an eye on it, and if too much liquid is absorbed too quickly, you can add a little more water or milk.

6. Once the cooking time is up, check the consistency of your oatmeal. If it looks a bit dry, stir in a splash of milk or cream to make it creamy again.

7. Before serving, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for that perfect crunch. Feel free to add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup along with a splash of milk or cream to finish it off.

8. If you’re looking to make this overnight, simply add an extra half cup of milk, cover, and set your cooker to “Keep Warm” for about 8 to 10 hours. This makes for an easy breakfast option in the morning!

9. Finally, serve warm and enjoy the cozy flavors of your Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal. Your family will love it!

Substitutions and Tips

When it comes to perfecting the Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind for an even better experience.

• Storage: This apple oatmeal will keep in the refrigerator for about 4 to 6 days in an airtight container. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: You can freeze this oatmeal for up to 3 months. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers for easy meal prep.
• Variations: Try adding different fruits like pears or berries for a twist! The possibilities are endless.
• Texture Control: If you find that your oatmeal is too dry after cooking, simply stir in a bit more milk or water before serving.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Taste your oatmeal before serving, and feel free to add more sweetener if desired.

Perfect Matches for Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal

Pairing your Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal with other dishes can create an even more delightful breakfast experience. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Fruits: Slices of bananas or berries make a great addition, bringing a burst of freshness.
• Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt can add creaminess and a probiotic boost to your meal.
• Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola on top for an added texture contrast that’s simply delightful.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements this oatmeal beautifully, making for a cozy breakfast pairing.
• Nut Butters: Drizzling some almond or peanut butter over the top can enhance the flavor and add protein.
• Occasions: This oatmeal is perfect for brunches, lazy weekends, or as a quick breakfast during the week. It’s also a great choice for seasonal gatherings in the fall!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal is the epitome of comfort food. With its warm spices and sweet apples, it brings joy to any breakfast table. I encourage you to give this delightful recipe a try; it’s easy, nutritious, and sure to please everyone in your family. Don’t wait—make it tonight and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings!

Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal brings together warm spices and sweet apples for a delicious breakfast. With its creamy texture and cozy flavors, this dish makes an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend brunch. Prepare it overnight for a hassle-free morning!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 large apple or 2 small, we use gala or fuji typically
• 2 cups rolled oats regular or gluten free
• 3 cups milk of choice we use unsweetened vanilla almond milk or whole milk
• 1 cup water (you can use all milk if preferred for a creamy, richer flavor)
• 2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1-2 Tbsp brown sugar more if desired
• ⅔ cup apple sauce
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ – 1 Tbsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp sea salt
• 2-3 Tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Slow Cooker
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Core and chop apple into bite-sized pieces. I keep the skin on, but you are welcome to remove it if desired.
2. Spray slow cooker with oil or grease with butter on the bottom and sides. Combine all ingredients except the pecans or walnuts into slow cooker and stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or until all or most of the liquid is absorbed (varies by your oatmeal preference) and apples are soft. You can cook for a shorter time if you like a bit of chewiness to your oatmeal, or longer if you prefer them very soft.
4. Before serving, stir in chopped nuts of choice and serve with an optional drizzle of honey or maple and a splash of milk or cream.
5. Overnight Cooking: If you want to cook overnight, add an extra 1/2 cup of milk, cover and set to 'Keep Warm' setting for about 8 to 10 hours. Add an extra splash of milk or cream if a bit dry when ready.

Notes

• Storage: This apple oatmeal will keep in the refrigerator for about 4 to 6 days in an airtight container. Add an extra splash of milk or some cream when reheating for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze this oatmeal for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Texture Control: If the oatmeal seems too dry, stir in some more about 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk or water as desired.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Taste before serving and add more sweetener if desired.
• Variations: Feel free to explore different fruits or nuts based on your preferences!

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Meet Jade Summer

Reliability is just as important as flavor. I am the one double checking measurements and testing temperatures. I cooked this recipe repeatedly, troubleshooting any tricky parts, so you can trust that it will turn out perfectly the very first time you try it.