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Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe

Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe

4.9 from 17 reviews

This Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make breakfast parfait for busy mornings. Combining the sweetness of apples and dried cranberries with the hearty texture of old-fashioned oats, flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, this slow-cooked oatmeal is deliciously aromatic and perfect for making ahead.

Ingredients

Scale

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 if desired)
  • 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries (or raisins or craisins)
  • 1/4 cup butter, sliced

Oatmeal Base

  • 2 cups old-fashioned oats (uncooked)
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups apple juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Nonstick cooking spray (for greasing slow cooker)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Fruit: In a medium mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Add the sliced apples and sweetened dried cranberries, tossing thoroughly to coat all fruit pieces with the spice and sugar mixture. Spray a 3-4 quart slow cooker generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the fruit mixture evenly into the slow cooker and evenly dot the butter slices over the top.
  2. Prepare Oats: In the same mixing bowl, add the old-fashioned oats, water, apple juice, and salt. Stir the mixture very well so the oats are evenly soaked and salt is dissolved. Pour this oatmeal mixture gently over the fruit mixture in the slow cooker without stirring to keep the layers distinct.
  3. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. If your slow cooker runs hot, check after 5 to 6 hours during the day to avoid overcooking. Once done, either stir the whole mixture before serving to combine flavors or spoon the oatmeal into bowls and top each serving with the cooked fruit mixture. Optionally, add a splash of milk for creaminess and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use old-fashioned oats for best texture; instant oats will become too mushy.
  • You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins or craisins depending on preference.
  • If you prefer a thicker oatmeal, reduce the liquid slightly or cook longer uncovered for 30 minutes after slow cooking.
  • Peeling the apples is optional depending on texture preference.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and serve with plant-based milk.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of milk or water.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker oatmeal, apple cinnamon oatmeal, crockpot breakfast, healthy oatmeal recipe, slow cooker breakfast