Slow-Cooker Apple-Cinnamon Delight Oatmeal
Indulge in a wholesome breakfast that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of warm apple pie. This delightful Slow-Cooker Apple-Cinnamon Delight Oatmeal combines steel-cut oats with sweet, chopped apples, plump raisins, and fragrant cinnamon, creating a nourishing meal that will kickstart your day. Simply toss the ingredients into your crock pot the night before, set it to low, and wake up to a deliciously creamy and satisfying breakfast. Enhance your bowl with a sprinkle of crunchy walnuts and a splash of almond milk if you prefer, for added texture and flavor. Perfect for busy mornings, this oatmeal is not just a meal—it's a warm hug in a bowl.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
steel cut oats
1 (cup)
water
2 (cups)
almond milk
2 (cups)
apple
1 (peeled & chopped)
raisins
1/3 (cup)
cinnamon
1 (tablespoon)
salt
1/8 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
In a clean crock pot, combine the steel-cut oats, peeled and chopped apple, raisins, salt, and cinnamon together.
2
Gently pour in the water and almond milk, and stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3
Set your crock pot to low and cook for at least 7 hours, or overnight. The oatmeal will be creamy and perfectly textured when ready.
4
Before serving, stir in some chopped walnuts for added crunch, if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slow-Cooker Apple-Cinnamon Delight Oatmeal?
It is a wholesome and nourishing breakfast made with steel-cut oats, chopped apples, raisins, and cinnamon, slow-cooked to a creamy consistency.
What kind of oats are required for this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses steel-cut oats, which hold up well during long cooking times in a slow cooker.
Can I use rolled oats or instant oats instead?
It is recommended to use steel-cut oats; rolled or instant oats may become too mushy if cooked for 7 hours or overnight.
How long does this oatmeal need to cook?
The oatmeal should be cooked on the low setting for at least 7 hours, making it ideal for overnight preparation.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, the recipe uses almond milk and plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
What is the liquid ratio for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a total of 4 cups of liquid (2 cups of water and 2 cups of almond milk) for every 1 cup of steel-cut oats.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes, the instructions suggest using one peeled and chopped apple for the best texture.
Can I substitute the almond milk?
Yes, you can use any milk of your choice, though almond milk provides a nice nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon and apple.
When should I add the walnuts?
Chopped walnuts should be stirred in just before serving to maintain their crunchy texture.
How much cinnamon is used in this delight oatmeal?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of cinnamon to give it a fragrant, warm apple pie aroma.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No refined sugar is added; the sweetness comes naturally from the chopped apple and 1/3 cup of raisins.
Is this oatmeal good for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep as you can cook a large batch overnight and enjoy it throughout the week.
Can I cook this on a high setting for a shorter time?
While the recipe specifies the low setting for 7 hours, you could experiment with a high setting for 3 to 4 hours, though the texture may vary.
What makes the oatmeal creamy?
The combination of slow-cooking steel-cut oats with almond milk and water creates a naturally creamy and satisfying texture.
Should I stir the oatmeal while it cooks?
No, you stir the ingredients well at the beginning and then let it cook undisturbed overnight.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! While walnuts are suggested, you can add a splash more almond milk, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How should I reheat the oatmeal?
Reheat portions on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture if it has thickened.
Does this recipe contain salt?
Yes, it includes 1/8 teaspoon of salt to balance the sweet flavors of the fruit and cinnamon.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but ensure your steel-cut oats are certified gluten-free if you have a high sensitivity.
What size slow cooker is best?
A standard 4 to 6-quart slow cooker works perfectly for this quantity of ingredients.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, sweeter varieties like Gala or Fuji work well, or use Granny Smith for a slightly tart flavor.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
While not explicitly stated, 1 cup of dry oats usually yields about 3 to 4 servings once cooked with liquids and fruit.
Are raisins mandatory?
No, raisins are optional but they add natural sweetness and a nice chewy texture to the dish.
Can I add the walnuts at the beginning?
It is better to add them at the end; if cooked for 7 hours, walnuts will lose their crunch and become soft.
Is this oatmeal considered healthy?
Yes, it is a high-fiber, nutrient-dense breakfast made with whole grains, fruit, and healthy fats from the optional walnuts.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients as long as your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.
Does the oatmeal stick to the slow cooker?
To prevent sticking, you can lightly grease the inside of the crock pot with cooking spray or butter before adding ingredients.
Can I freeze the cooked oatmeal?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
What does the aroma of this recipe resemble?
The cinnamon and apples cooking together fill the kitchen with the comforting scent of a warm apple pie.