Let me tell you, this Peanut Butter and Banana Crockpot Oatmeal is a total game-changer for busy mornings. It’s creamy, cozy, and packed with flavors the whole family will love. Plus, it cooks overnight while you sleep, so you wake up to a warm, comforting breakfast that’s ready to go. No rushing, no fuss—just wholesome, delicious oatmeal that tastes like a treat! My kids go crazy for the peanut butter-banana combo, and I love how easy it is to make. You’re going to love it too!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- 3 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice)
- 1 cup water
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Pro Tips
- Use ripe bananas. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your oatmeal will be.
- Grease the crockpot. Lightly coat the inside with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Don’t overcook. Steel-cut oats can get mushy if they’re left too long. Set a timer if your slow cooker has one.
- Let the kids pick toppings. Bananas, berries, nuts, or even chocolate chips—it’s fun and makes breakfast extra special.
- Prep the night before. Measure everything out, so it’s quick to toss in before bed.
Tools You’ll Need
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A whisk or spoon for mixing
Substitutions and Variations
- Use rolled oats instead of steel-cut for a softer texture (reduce cook time by half).
- Swap almond milk for dairy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Add a scoop of protein powder or chia seeds for extra nutrition.
- Replace peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for allergies.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top for a fun twist!
Make-Ahead Tips
This oatmeal is perfect for making ahead. Cook it overnight, then store leftovers in the fridge. Reheat individual portions with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Instructions
1. Grease the crockpot
Lightly spray the inside with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the ingredients
In the crockpot, combine the oats, almond milk, water, mashed bananas, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Set it to cook
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the oats are tender and creamy.
4. Serve and enjoy!
Give the oatmeal a good stir, then spoon it into bowls. Top with sliced bananas, a drizzle of peanut butter, and any other toppings you love!
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy, wholesome breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl! Peanut Butter and Banana Crockpot Oatmeal is perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends, and it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any questions. Happy cooking! 🥣🍌❤️
