Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting breakfast that captures the essence of fall, you’ve landed in the right place! This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is like having a slice of pumpkin pie for breakfast—how delightful is that? It’s warming, filling, and oh-so-easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings or family gatherings. Just set it and forget it overnight, and wake up to a delicious aroma wafting through your home!

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household, especially when the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the joy of sharing a hearty breakfast with loved ones while basking in those cozy fall vibes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you sleep!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: This oatmeal is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it an ideal breakfast for everyone.
• Meal Prep Champion: Make a big batch at once and enjoy warm bowls throughout the week—just reheat and savor!
• Deliciously Wholesome: Packed with fiber from steel-cut oats and pumpkin, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
• Customizable Toppings: Enjoy with your favorite toppings like nuts or maple syrup for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. No fancy stuff here—just good food for you and your family!

For the Oatmeal Base

• cooking spray (butter or coconut oil for coating the slow cooker)
• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 2 ½ cups water
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup canned pumpkin or homemade pumpkin puree
• 3 Tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For Serving

• chopped pecans
• maple syrup (for drizzling)
• almond milk (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some fruit: Toss in some diced apples or pears for extra sweetness and texture.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter before serving for an added layer of richness.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to create your perfect flavor profile.
• Go dairy-free: If you prefer, substitute almond milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by coating your slow cooker with cooking spray, butter, or coconut oil. This step ensures that nothing sticks to the sides as your oatmeal cooks overnight. It makes cleanup so much easier!

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all those wonderful ingredients into your slow cooker. Toss in the steel-cut oats, water, almond milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Give everything a good stir! This is where all those flavors come together beautifully.

Step 3: Set Your Slow Cooker

Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re using a programmable slow cooker, set it to cook on low for 7 hours before switching to warm mode. This way, it’ll be perfectly cooked when you wake up.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

In the morning, give your oatmeal a good stir as it may settle at the bottom. Scoop out portions into bowls and top them off with chopped pecans, more maple syrup if desired, and a splash of almond milk. Each bite will remind you of that beloved fall dessert!

Step 5: Store Any Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which I doubt!), let them cool completely before transferring them to a sealed container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave—with an extra splash of milk if needed.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this heartwarming bowl of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal any day of the week! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Making oatmeal in a slow cooker is a breeze, especially with this pumpkin pie twist! Here are some tips to ensure your oatmeal turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right oats: Using steel-cut oats gives a heartier texture and nutty flavor compared to rolled oats. They hold their shape during the long cooking process, making for a perfect creamy breakfast.
• Adjust the sweetness: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to sweetness. Start with 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, but feel free to add more or less according to your taste!
• Mix well before cooking: Stirring all the ingredients together ensures even distribution of flavors and prevents clumping. It helps the spices and pumpkin puree blend beautifully as they cook.
• Experiment with spices: If you love experimenting, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick. These warm spices complement the pumpkin flavor and add depth to your oatmeal.
• Batch it up: This recipe makes enough for several servings, so consider making it on a Sunday night for easy breakfasts throughout the week! Just store leftovers in sealed containers in the fridge.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Serving your slow cooker pumpkin pie oatmeal can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this warm, cozy dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans right on top adds crunch and pairs perfectly with the creamy oatmeal.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A little drizzle over each bowl enhances the sweetness and gives that classic autumn vibe.
• Almond milk splash: A splash of almond milk not only looks inviting but also adds creaminess if your oatmeal thickens too much during storage.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears brings freshness and balances out the richness of the oatmeal.
• Greek yogurt: A dollop of dairy-free yogurt provides extra creaminess and protein, making your breakfast even more satisfying.
• Whole grain toast with almond butter: This crunchy side adds fiber and healthy fats that beautifully complement your sweet oatmeal.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Pairing your meal with a warm beverage like chai tea or cinnamon-spiced coffee creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for fall mornings.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this comforting dish! Whether you’re serving it for breakfast or making it ahead for busy weekdays, slow cooker pumpkin pie oatmeal will become a favorite in no time. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy delicious, warm breakfasts all week long.

Storing Leftovers

• Pour any leftover oatmeal into airtight containers.
• Refrigerate for up to one week.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the oatmeal to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of almond milk and stir over medium heat until warmed through.
• In the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, adding milk as necessary for desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal recipe.

Can I use rolled oats instead of steel-cut oats for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal?

Yes! If you prefer rolled oats, you can use them. However, they will cook faster. Reduce the cooking time to about 4-5 hours on low.

Is this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal gluten-free?

Absolutely! Ensure that you use certified gluten-free steel-cut oats, and all other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain this dish’s gluten-free status.

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal?

Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. You can also add nuts, dried fruits, or seeds for extra texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this cozy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal as much as I do! It brings a taste of fall right to your breakfast table while being nourishing and satisfying. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or mix-ins; make it your own! Enjoy every spoonful and have a wonderful day!