If you’ve ever wanted a cozy breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, look no further than the Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe. This delightful dish combines tender apples, fragrant cinnamon, and hearty oats into one effortless slow-cooked meal that fills your kitchen with the most inviting scents. It’s easy to set up the night before, then wake up to a creamy, perfectly spiced oatmeal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe makes mornings something to truly look forward to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a vital role—from the sweetness of brown sugar and dried cranberries to the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg—all creating layers of flavor and texture in one pot.
- Brown sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings that classic, warming spice that makes the oatmeal irresistible.
- Ground nutmeg: A subtle hint of nutty spice that enhances the cinnamon beautifully.
- Apples (3 medium): Fresh and sliced into bite-sized pieces for tender, naturally juicy bursts in every spoonful.
- Sweetened dried cranberries (1 cup): Adds chewy texture and a touch of tangy sweetness; raisins or craisins can be great substitutes.
- Butter (1/4 cup): Dotting the mixture with butter enriches the oatmeal and gives it a lovely silky finish.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Essential for prepping your slow cooker and preventing any sticking.
- Old-fashioned oats (2 cups): The heart of the dish, providing a creamy, filling base once slow-cooked.
- Water (2 cups): Helps cook the oats to creamy perfection without overpowering flavor.
- Apple juice (2 cups): Infuses the oats with additional natural sweetness and depth.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture
Begin by tossing together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl—this trio of spices and sweetness is what will give your apples and cranberries that inviting autumnal charm. Then, add the sliced apples and dried cranberries, stirring gently to coat all the fruit pieces evenly. Be sure to spray your slow cooker thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking, then transfer the fruit mixture to the crockpot, dotting it with slices of butter for that rich, luscious finish.
Step 2: Combine Oats and Liquids
Next, use the same bowl to mix your oats with water, apple juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir this mixture vigorously so that the oats are evenly hydrated and all the flavors are incorporated. Once mixed, carefully pour this oat concoction over the fruit and butter in the slow cooker. A key tip here: don’t stir after adding, allowing the layers to slowly meld as they cook.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker on the LOW setting and let it work its magic for 6 to 8 hours (or about 5 to 6 hours if your crockpot tends to run hot). If you’re uncertain about timing, keeping an eye on it the first go can help you find that sweet spot. When ready, you can either mix the oatmeal before serving or scoop the oats and fruit separately into bowls so everyone can enjoy a bit of each in every bite. A splash of milk on top will elevate the experience even more.
How to Serve Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to dress up your Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe with a variety of garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch, while a drizzle of maple syrup or honey can add an extra layer of sweetness. Fresh apple slices or a dash of extra cinnamon on top make it look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This oatmeal pairs beautifully with protein-rich sides like scrambled eggs or a slice of crispy bacon for a well-rounded breakfast. If you prefer something lighter, a fresh fruit salad alongside complements the apple and cinnamon flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family brunch or an inviting breakfast spread, serve your Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe in individual mason jars or pretty bowls, layering some fruit mixture at the bottom for a rustic touch. You can also add yogurt or a dollop of nut butter to create a breakfast parfait effect that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This oatmeal keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen after resting, making leftovers a breakfast winner on busy mornings.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the crockpot oatmeal in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, so you always have a quick and comforting meal ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture. Stir occasionally to ensure it warms evenly and stays creamy.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Steel-cut oats require longer cooking times and more liquid, so this recipe is best with old-fashioned oats for that perfect creamy consistency without additional adjustments.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Not at all! The peel adds texture and nutrients, and it softens nicely during slow cooking, making the oatmeal more rustic and flavorful.
Can I make the recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative, and use a non-dairy milk for serving to keep it vegan-friendly.
How sweet is this oatmeal without adding extra sugar?
The natural sweetness from the apples, apple juice, and dried cranberries usually makes it sweet enough, but you can always adjust by adding more brown sugar if desired.
Will my slow cooker need stirring during cooking?
No stirring is needed while cooking. The slow cooker does all the work, letting the oats and fruit meld perfectly. Just stir before serving if you want a more uniform texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe enough for cozy mornings that feel effortlessly special. It’s like waking up to autumn in a bowl, with minimal prep and maximum comfort. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to start the day!
Print
Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A warm and comforting Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal recipe that combines tender apples, sweet cranberries, and aromatic spices slow-cooked to perfection. This easy-to-make breakfast is flavorful, wholesome, and perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or more to taste)
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 medium apples, cored and sliced into bite-sized pieces (peel optional)
- 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries (or raisins or craisins)
- 1/4 cup butter, sliced
- Nonstick cooking spray
Oatmeal Base
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats, uncooked
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups apple juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Fruit: In a medium mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Add the cored and sliced apples along with the cranberries, tossing everything well to evenly coat the fruit with the spice mixture. Spray a 3-4 quart slow cooker thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray, then transfer the coated fruit mixture into the crockpot. Evenly dot the fruit with slices of butter.
- Prepare Oats: Using the same mixing bowl, add the old-fashioned oats, water, apple juice, and salt. Stir the mixture very well to combine all ingredients. Pour this oat mixture gently over the fruit mixture in the slow cooker, making sure not to stir the layers so they remain separate.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or 5 to 6 hours if your slow cooker runs hot. Check around the lower end of cooking time to prevent overcooking. Once done, either stir the oatmeal before serving or spoon oatmeal into bowls and top with the fruit mixture. Serve warm, optionally with a splash of milk.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
- Adjust brown sugar amount according to your preferred level of sweetness.
- If you don’t have apple juice, you can substitute with more water and a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Oats absorb liquids differently depending on brand; check consistency towards the end of cooking and adjust liquid next time if needed.
- Adding a splash of milk when serving enhances the creaminess of the oatmeal.
