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–+ servings
Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal 1

Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Wake up to a nutritious, warm breakfast that practically prepares itself while you sleep. This Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal combines wholesome ingredients that work their magic overnight, creating a nutritious start to your day without the morning rush.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 245 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups steel-cut oats can substitute rolled oats, but cooking time will decrease
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk substitute oat milk for a nuttier flavor or regular milk if preferred
  • 3 medium apples cored and diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work wonderfully)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup substitute honey or omit for less sweetness
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings

  • chopped walnuts
  • fresh apple slices
  • additional cinnamon
  • nut butter for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of coconut oil to prevent sticking.
  • Add the steel-cut oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the slow cooker. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution of spices.
  • Pour in the water and almond milk, then add the maple syrup and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine.
  • Fold in the diced apples, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture.
  • Cover the slow cooker and set to low for 7-8 hours (ideal for overnight) or high for 3-4 hours if preparing during the day.
  • When cooking is complete, stir the oatmeal to incorporate any liquid that may have settled on top. If it appears too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
  • Spoon into bowls and customize with your favorite toppings like chopped walnuts, fresh apple slices, additional cinnamon, or a drizzle of nut butter.

Notes

Pro tip: If you prefer some apple pieces to retain more texture, reserve 1/3 of the diced apples to add during the last hour of cooking instead.
Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for 4-5 days. The flavor actually improves after the first day as the spices continue to meld.
For meal prep, portion the cooked oatmeal into individual containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. A splash of milk when reheating restores the creamy texture.
You can also freeze individual portions in silicone muffin cups, then transfer to freezer bags once solid for convenient single-serving portions.

Nutrition

Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 7gFat: 4gSodium: 115mgFiber: 7gSugar: 9gCalcium: 8mgIron: 15mg
Keyword Slow Cooker, Oatmeal, Apple Cinnamon, Overnight Oats, Healthy Breakfast
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