This Slow Cooker Berry Oatmeal is a cozy and healthy breakfast! Filled with sweet berries and hearty oats, it’s ready for you when you wake up.
Let’s be real—waking up to warm, fruity oatmeal is like getting a hug in a bowl! I love how I can throw everything in the slow cooker and relax while it cooks.
It’s super easy to make! Just mix oats, your favorite berries, and water or milk, then let the slow cooker do its thing. Top it with nuts or honey for extra yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats are perfect for slow cooking as they retain their texture. If you’re short on time, quick oats can work, but they may be mushier. I prefer rolled oats for a heartier bite!
Mixed Berries: Fresh or frozen; both work well! You can mix and match whatever berries you like. If you can’t find mixed berries, strawberries or just blueberries are great too. I like using frozen berries because they’re always available!
Milk: You can use any type of milk, including dairy, almond, oat, or soy. Unsweetened milk is best as it keeps the oatmeal from becoming overly sweet. I often use almond milk for a nutty flavor.
Maple Syrup or Honey: These are great for adding sweetness, but feel free to leave them out if you prefer a healthier option. Agave syrup is a good alternative if you want to keep it vegan!
How Do I Get My Oatmeal Smooth and Creamy?
A key step in creating a creamy texture is using the right liquid-to-oat ratio and letting it cook for the right amount of time. Here’s how:
- Mix oats, cinnamon, and salt first, then add liquids to ensure thorough blending.
- For the best results, cover the slow cooker and cook it low and slow—this helps the oats absorb the liquid without getting dry.
- If you prefer it creamier, you can stir in an extra splash of milk before serving.
Lastly, don’t forget to adjust sweetness with maple syrup or honey right before serving for the best flavor!
How to Make Slow Cooker Berry Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch salt
- 3 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; e.g., raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Optional toppings: extra fresh berries, nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts), a drizzle of honey or maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Berry Oatmeal takes about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by cooking for 6-8 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Perfect for a no-fuss breakfast that you can wake up to!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker:
Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly greasing it with butter or oil. This will keep your oatmeal from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In the slow cooker, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir to blend everything together evenly.
3. Add the Liquid:
Pour in the milk and water, stirring the mixture until the oats are fully covered with liquid. This will ensure creamy oatmeal.
4. Add the Berries:
Gently fold in your mixed berries. If you decide to use frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them first; they’ll cook perfectly in the slow cooker!
5. Cook the Oatmeal:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. For a wonderful breakfast waiting for you in the morning, let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it on high for 2-3 hours. The oatmeal should be tender and creamy when done.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once your oatmeal is cooked, stir in the vanilla extract and sweetener like maple syrup or honey if you want a touch of sweetness. Taste it and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the oatmeal warm in bowls, and feel free to top it with extra fresh berries, a sprinkle of nuts, or an extra drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Dig in and enjoy your cozy breakfast!
This recipe creates a creamy, comforting bowl of oatmeal bursting with vibrant mixed berries, making it the perfect easy, hands-off breakfast to start your day right!
Can I Use Instant Oats for This Recipe?
While you can use instant oats, keep in mind that they may turn out mushier due to their quick cooking time. For the best texture, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.
Can I Prep This Oatmeal the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can measure out the dry ingredients and store them in the slow cooker insert in the fridge. In the morning, just add the liquids and berries, then start cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk or water and warm it in the microwave, stirring to achieve your desired consistency.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
Get creative! You can add nuts, seeds, yogurt, or even a dollop of nut butter for extra flavor and nutrition. Fresh fruits like bananas or apples also work well as toppings!
