Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Name: Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 4 cups water or milk (or a mix); 2 apples, diced; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional toppings: chopped walnuts, raisins, or maple syrup

Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking

I love waking up to the warm and inviting aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples in the morning. With my Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal, I can set it up the night before and let it cook while I sleep. The combination of hearty oats, sweet apples, and aromatic cinnamon is not only comforting but also incredibly nourishing. It’s the perfect start to a chilly morning, and it’s easy enough to customize with your favorite toppings. This oatmeal brings all the flavors of fall right to my breakfast table every single day.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-18T15:17:27.695Z

One morning, I had some apples left over from an earlier baking project, and I decided to get creative. I tossed them into the crockpot with oatmeal and spices, and the result was heavenly! The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul. Using quick-cook oats works well and saves time while the apples break down perfectly, adding natural sweetness.

As an added bonus, I love how customizable this recipe is. You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even a splash of maple syrup. The best part? I can prepare it the night before, ensuring I wake up to breakfast ready to serve. Try it out, and enjoy the deliciousness of fall in your bowl!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying meal to start your day
Infused with sweet, spiced apple flavor
Hands-off preparation—just set and forget!

      

The Role of Oats

Rolled oats are the star ingredient in this recipe, providing a hearty base that absorbs flavors and creates a creamy texture during cooking. The thickness of rolled oats ensures that they hold their shape, resulting in a satisfying consistency that isn't mushy. If you prefer a different texture, consider using steel-cut oats, but keep in mind they will require a longer cooking time—about 10 hours on low—because they are denser.

Oats are not only filling but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, which can help keep you energized and satisfied throughout the morning. Additionally, the soluble fiber in oats is known to support heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels.

Customizing Your Oatmeal

One of the best aspects of this oatmeal recipe is its versatility. While the recipe calls for apples and cinnamon, you can easily substitute the apples with other fruits like pears or berries for a different flavor profile. You can also alter the spices to suit your taste; try adding some ginger or pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist! Just keep in mind that the moisture content of different fruits may affect the final texture, so adjust the liquid accordingly if needed.

When it comes to toppings, the options are endless. Adding chopped walnuts introduces a delightful crunch and boosts healthy fats. If you're looking for a sweeter touch, raisins or a drizzle of maple syrup can enhance the apple flavor. Feel free to mix and match toppings each day to keep breakfast exciting!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful breakfast.

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
4 cups water or milk (or a mix)
2 apples, diced
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup brown sugar or honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional toppings: chopped walnuts, raisins, or maple syrup

Be creative and add your favorite toppings before serving!

Instructions

Follow these steps for an easy and delicious breakfast.

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, diced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure the apples are evenly distributed.

Set Up the Crockpot

Pour the oat mixture into the crockpot. Then add the water or milk, stirring to combine everything well.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or overnight. In the morning, you'll wake up to a delicious breakfast!

Serve

Once cooked, stir the oatmeal and serve it warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as walnuts, raisins, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Enjoy your warm bowl of oatmeal, perfect for chilly mornings!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different spices like ginger or vanilla extract to customize the oatmeal to your taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

To streamline your mornings, consider preparing the dry ingredients in advance. Mix the rolled oats, spices, and brown sugar in a container the night before. When you're ready to cook, simply add the wet ingredients and chopped apples to the crockpot. This reduces prep time and allows you to enjoy a warm breakfast even on the busiest days.

If you're planning to make a large batch, the oatmeal can be refrigerated for up to four days. Simply reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or milk to restore its creamy consistency. You can also freeze the oatmeal in individual portions for up to three months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your oatmeal turns out too thick, don't worry—simply add a splash more water or milk during the stirring process after it's cooked. For a creamier texture, you can also stir in some Greek yogurt or a splash of almond milk before serving. If you notice it sticking to the sides of the crockpot, consider using a non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper for future batches.

In case the oatmeal does not seem sweet enough after cooking, adjust it to your taste by adding more honey or brown sugar at the serving stage. Just sprinkle it on top and stir, allowing the heat to melt and incorporate it into the oatmeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time, as steel-cut oats require about 10-12 hours on low heat.

→ How long will the oatmeal last in the refrigerator?

It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this oatmeal?

Absolutely! Freeze individual portions in airtight containers, and simply reheat them in the microwave when needed.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.