Description
This Crockpot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast recipe made with tender apples, sweet dried cranberries, and a perfect blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. Slow-cooked to creamy perfection, this hearty oatmeal is easy to prepare and perfect for busy mornings, serving six with a deliciously sweet and spiced flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Mixture
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or more to taste)
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 medium apples, cored and sliced into bite-sized pieces (peel optional)
- 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries (or raisins or craisins)
- 1/4 cup butter, sliced
- Nonstick cooking spray
Oatmeal Base
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats (uncooked)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups apple juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Fruit: In a medium mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Add the cored and sliced apples along with the dried cranberries, and toss well to coat all the fruit evenly with the spice and sugar mixture. Spray a 3-4 quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking, then transfer the coated fruit mixture into the crockpot. Evenly distribute the sliced butter over the top of the fruit.
- Prepare Oats: In the same mixing bowl (no need to clean), add the old-fashioned oats, water, apple juice, and salt. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients well. Carefully pour this oat mixture over the fruit in the slow cooker. Do not stir so the layers remain distinct during cooking.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW heat setting for 6 to 8 hours. If your crockpot tends to run hot, a shorter cooking time of about 5 to 6 hours is recommended; test early to avoid overcooking. Once done, gently stir the oatmeal before serving or spoon the oatmeal into bowls and top each serving with the cooked fruit mixture for a pretty presentation. Serve warm with an optional splash of milk for creaminess.
Notes
- Peeling the apples is optional; leaving the peel on adds texture and nutrients.
- Adjust the brown sugar amount to your preferred sweetness level.
- You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins or craisins.
- Test your slow cooker’s heat settings during the day to perfect cooking time.
- This oatmeal thickens as it cools; add a little extra apple juice or milk when reheating if desired.
- Serve with milk or a plant-based alternative for extra creaminess.
