Creamy Overnight Steel-Cut Oatmeal with Dried Fruits
This delectable overnight steel-cut oatmeal is a wholesome way to kickstart your day. Crafted from the finest steel-cut oats, known for their rich texture and nutty flavor, this recipe combines dried cranberries and figs for a delightful sweet touch, all enhanced with the creaminess of half-and-half. Perfect for those busy mornings, simply set it up before bed, and wake up to a warm, nutritious breakfast ready to be served. A wonderful way to incorporate fibers and nutrients into your meals, it’s not just filling, but also tastes amazing. Enjoy it as is or top with your favorite fresh fruits and nuts for added flair.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
steel cut oats
1 cup (uncooked)
dried cranberries
1 cup (uncooked)
dried figs
1 cup (chopped)
water
4 cups (cold)
half-and-half
1/2 cup (cold)
Instructions
1
Before you retire for the night, gather your ingredients and prepare your crock-pot.
2
In the crock-pot, combine the steel-cut oats, dried cranberries, dried figs, water, and half-and-half.
3
Set your crock-pot to low heat and cover it tightly.
4
Allow the mixture to cook overnight for 8 to 9 hours, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma as you sleep.
5
In the morning, give the oatmeal a good stir to mix all the flavors together. Spoon the creamy mixture into serving bowls.
6
Optionally, you can top it with fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before serving. Enjoy your wholesome breakfast!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Overnight Steel-Cut Oatmeal?
It is a slow-cooked breakfast dish made with steel-cut oats, dried fruits, and cream, prepared overnight in a crock-pot for a rich and nutty flavor.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need 1 cup of steel-cut oats, 1 cup of dried cranberries, 1 cup of chopped dried figs, 4 cups of water, and 1/2 cup of half-and-half.
Can I substitute rolled oats for steel-cut oats?
No, rolled oats are too processed and will become mushy if cooked for 8-9 hours; steel-cut oats are necessary to maintain the proper texture.
How long does the oatmeal need to cook?
The oatmeal should be cooked on low heat in a crock-pot for 8 to 9 hours.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by substituting the half-and-half with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk.
What dried fruits are used in this oatmeal?
This specific recipe calls for dried cranberries and chopped dried figs.
Do I need to stir the oatmeal while it cooks?
No, you do not need to stir it during the night. Simply stir it once in the morning before serving to mix the flavors.
What heat setting should I use on my crock-pot?
You should use the low heat setting to ensure the oats cook slowly and do not burn.
Can I use milk instead of water for the base?
It is recommended to use water as the cooking base to prevent scorching, then add half-and-half for creaminess.
Is this oatmeal recipe gluten-free?
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but you should ensure yours are certified gluten-free if you have a high sensitivity.
How should I serve this oatmeal in the morning?
Spoon the mixture into bowls and optionally top with fresh fruit, nuts, honey, or maple syrup.
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?
Dried figs are better for the overnight cooking process; if you want to use fresh figs, add them as a topping in the morning.
Why is half-and-half included in the recipe?
Half-and-half adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the nutty flavor of the steel-cut oats.
Can I omit the dried fruit?
Yes, you can omit the fruit if you prefer plain oatmeal or want to add fresh fruit only after cooking.
What is the texture of the finished oatmeal?
The texture is creamy yet hearty, with a distinct chewiness that is characteristic of steel-cut oats.
Can I cook this on high heat for a shorter time?
It is not recommended as high heat can cause the oats to stick and burn; the low and slow method is ideal for overnight preparation.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How do I reheat the oatmeal?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy consistency.
Can I add nuts during the cooking process?
Nuts are best added as a topping just before serving to maintain their crunchy texture.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is high in fiber and nutrients, providing a wholesome and filling start to the day.
Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?
Yes, heavy cream can be used for an even richer and more decadent breakfast.
Do I need to soak the oats before putting them in the crock-pot?
No, the overnight cooking process effectively soaks and cooks the oats simultaneously.
Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?
Absolutely! Adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
What should I do if the oatmeal is too thick?
If it is too thick, simply stir in a little more water, milk, or half-and-half until it reaches your desired thickness.
Can I use a rice cooker for this recipe?
You can use a rice cooker if it has a specific porridge or slow-cook setting, but results may vary compared to a crock-pot.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can double the ingredients as long as your slow cooker is large enough to hold the volume.
Are the dried cranberries necessary?
They are not required, but they provide a tart sweetness that complements the figs and oats.
Can I use quick-cook steel-cut oats?
Quick-cook steel-cut oats are not suitable for overnight cooking as they will lose their texture and become too soft.
Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, you can measure the dry ingredients and chop the figs in advance, but do not combine them with liquid until you start the cooker.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, children usually enjoy the natural sweetness of the dried fruit and the creamy texture of the oatmeal.