If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug in the morning, this Pioneer Woman-inspired Crockpot Oatmeal is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, comforting, and crazy easy to make—just toss everything into your slow cooker before bed, and wake up to the smell of sweet, cinnamon-y oats ready to go. The best part? You can customize it with all your favorite toppings—fruits, nuts, brown sugar, or even a dollop of peanut butter. My kids love adding a splash of maple syrup and some fresh berries, and I won’t lie… so do I!
Let’s dive in—this one’s a keeper.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy milk like almond milk)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: fresh berries, nuts, maple syrup, peanut butter, raisins
Pro Tips
- Don’t skip the butter! It gives the oatmeal a rich, velvety texture that feels extra indulgent.
- Set it on LOW. Cooking oatmeal on high can make it stick to the sides of your slow cooker and dry out.
- Spray your crockpot first. A quick spray of non-stick cooking spray makes cleanup a breeze.
- Customize the milk. Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option—it’s just as creamy!
- Let the kids pick toppings. It’s a fun way to get them excited about breakfast!
Tools You’ll Need
- A slow cooker (any size will work, but smaller ones are best for this recipe)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap steel-cut oats for rolled oats, but reduce the cooking time by half.
- For sweetness, you can use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
- Add mix-ins like chopped apples, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut before cooking.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep all your ingredients the night before, so you just have to dump and go.
- Leftovers can be reheated with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Crockpot Oatmeal
1. Spray the Crockpot
Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Combine Ingredients
Add the oats, water, milk, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt to the crockpot. Stir everything together.
3. Set and Forget
Set your slow cooker to LOW, cover with the lid, and cook for 7-8 hours overnight.
4. Serve and Enjoy
In the morning, give the oatmeal a good stir. Scoop it into bowls and add your favorite toppings—berries, nuts, maple syrup, or whatever 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 stovetop with a splash of milk or water to make it creamy again.
Let’s Wrap This Up!
There’s nothing better than waking up to a hot, hearty breakfast that’s ready to go—and this Crockpot Oatmeal is exactly that. It’s perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or even meal prepping for the week. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Drop a comment below if you’ve got questions or want to share your favorite toppings. Happy cooking! 🥣💛
