Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Oatmeal Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast that practically makes itself, you’ll love this slow cooker maple cinnamon oatmeal recipe.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve woken up to the delightful aroma of cinnamon and maple wafting through my kitchen. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly morning!
This recipe saves me time and effort, allowing me to set everything up the night before and let the slow cooker do its magic while I sleep.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite toppings, whether it’s fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup.
Trust me, once you try this oatmeal, you’ll never want to go back to those instant packets!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Oatmeal
When it comes to whipping up a delightful breakfast that practically cooks itself, the ingredients for slow cooker maple cinnamon oatmeal are just as comforting as the dish itself. Imagine waking up to a warm bowl of oatmeal, infused with the sweet scents of maple syrup and cinnamon. It’s like a breakfast hug, isn’t it?
And the best part? You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to create this cozy morning treat.
- 1 cup steel cut oats (dry)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 cups milk (or vanilla almond milk for a dairy-free twist)
- 2-3 vanilla beans (or 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla extract if you’re short on beans)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons ground flax seeds
Before you head into the kitchen, there are a couple of things to keep in mind regarding these ingredients. First off, steel cut oats are what gives this recipe its hearty texture and nutty flavor. They take longer to cook than regular rolled oats, but trust me, the result is well worth the wait.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the maple syrup for honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile. And don’t be shy with the toppings! Fresh fruit, nuts, or even a sprinkle of chocolate can really elevate your oatmeal game.
You’ll find that this recipe isn’t just a breakfast; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity, so let your taste buds lead the way!
How to Make Slow Cooker Oatmeal
Making slow cooker maple cinnamon oatmeal is as easy as pie—or rather, as easy as a warm hug in a bowl. First things first, you’ll want to gather your ingredients and prep your crockpot. Grab 1 cup of steel cut oats, 1 1/2 cups of water, and 2 cups of milk (or if you’re feeling a bit nutty, go for vanilla almond milk). Don’t forget to have your vanilla beans (2-3 of them) or 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla extract handy, along with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt (or however much you like), and 2 tablespoons of ground flax seeds.
Now, here comes the fun part. Before you throw everything into the pot, grease the crockpot with a little butter, margarine, or coconut oil. Trust me, this is essential if you want your oatmeal to slide right out instead of staging a sticky protest.
Once greased, toss in your dry steel cut oats, followed by the water and milk. Then add the vanilla (beans or extract), cinnamon, maple syrup, sea salt, and flax seeds. Give it a gentle stir; you want everything cozy and mixed but not too rough.
Now, put the lid on your crockpot—this is the moment you can walk away and let it do its magic. Set it to cook on low for 8 to 9 hours. Yes, that’s right, you can go to bed knowing that breakfast is taken care of.
Wake up to the delightful aroma of maple syrup and cinnamon wafting through your home. It’s like waking up in a cozy café. Once it’s done, you can top your bowl with whatever your heart desires: bananas, nuts, chocolate, or even some dried fruit.
Enjoy the comforting warmth, and remember, each bite is a reminder that breakfast can be both effortless and delicious.
Slow Cooker Oatmeal Substitutions & Variations
After enjoying a warm bowl of slow cooker maple cinnamon oatmeal, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up a bit.
One easy substitution is using quinoa instead of steel cut oats for a protein-packed twist. You could also swap out the milk for coconut milk to add a tropical flair.
If you’re looking to cut sugar, try using mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce instead of maple syrup. For a spicier kick, consider adding nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon.
Don’t forget about toppings! Chopped nuts, seeds, or a dollop of yogurt can elevate your bowl.
Experimenting with different fruits like peaches or berries can bring new flavors, making each breakfast unique!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Oatmeal
What can you pair with slow cooker oatmeal to make it even more satisfying? I love to top my oatmeal with a variety of delicious ingredients.
Fresh fruit is always a winner; bananas, blueberries, or chopped apples add a burst of flavor and nutrition. Nuts like almonds and pecans give a nice crunch and healthy fats.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, sprinkle on some raisins, dates, or figs. For an extra indulgent touch, I sometimes add a few pieces of chopped bittersweet chocolate.
A dollop of yogurt or a splash of milk can add creaminess. With these toppings, each bowl becomes a personalized delight, making breakfast not just filling, but also a treat to look forward to!
Additional Tips & Notes
Toppings can elevate your slow cooker oatmeal to new heights, but there are a few additional tips that can enhance your overall experience.
First, I always grease the crockpot with butter or coconut oil to prevent sticking. If you want a creamier texture, try using a mix of milk and water. For a protein boost, add a couple of tablespoons of nut butter right before serving—it’s delicious!
I also recommend letting the oatmeal cool slightly before serving; it thickens up nicely.
Finally, remember that everyone’s taste is different, so feel free to adjust the sweetness with more or less maple syrup. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make this recipe your own!