This Slow Cooker Berry Oatmeal is a warm and cozy breakfast packed with juicy berries and hearty oats. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you sleep!
Wake up to your kitchen smelling heavenly! I love how easy it is to prepare—perfect for busy mornings. Plus, you can mix in your favorite toppings, like nuts or honey, for extra yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These are perfect for slow cooking as they hold their shape and texture. If you don’t have them, quick oats can work, but they’ll be mushier. Avoid instant oats—they cook too fast.
Quinoa: This addition boosts nutrition and adds a fun texture. If you’re not keen on quinoa, you can just use extra oats or add some chia seeds instead for a similar healthy twist.
Milk: You can use any milk you like! Dairy, almond, coconut, or oat milk can all work well. Each will give a different flavor, so pick what you enjoy most.
Mixed berries: Fresh berries are delicious, but frozen ones are equally good. Just remember that frozen may make the oatmeal a bit wetter. If you don’t have mixed berries, you can use just one type, like blueberries or strawberries.
Sweetener: I love brown sugar for its rich flavor, but honey or agave syrup are great alternatives. You can also skip the sweetener if you’re not a fan.
How Do I Make Sure My Oatmeal Is Creamy and Not Clumpy?
The key to creamy oatmeal is the right cooking method. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Use enough liquid! The oats need it to swell properly. The ratio here (2 cups of oats to 4 cups of liquid) is ideal.
- Stir the mixture gently before cooking to ensure even distribution of ingredients, but avoid over-mixing.
- Once cooked, give it a good stir to combine everything. This helps integrate the berries and makes the oatmeal creamy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a deliciously creamy bowl of oatmeal waiting for you in the morning!
Slow Cooker Berry Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup quinoa (optional, for added texture and nutrition)
- 4 cups milk (dairy or any plant-based milk)
- 1 cup water
Berries and Sweetener:
- 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Flavorings:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Plain yogurt or cream, for serving (optional)
- Additional fresh berries, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wonderful Slow Cooker Berry Oatmeal takes about 10 minutes of prep time. After that, you’ll let it cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, making it perfect for an overnight breakfast. Wake up to a warm, tasty, and healthy meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing or spraying the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This little step will help keep the oatmeal from sticking. You want it nice and easy to scoop out in the morning!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In the slow cooker, add the rolled oats, quinoa (if you’re using it), milk, water, mixed berries, brown sugar or maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Gently stir everything together, making sure the oats and berries are evenly mixed.
3. Time for Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours. This is a great recipe to set before you head to bed—what a wonderful way to wake up! The oatmeal will be creamy and the quinoa will be tender by the time you’re ready for breakfast.
4. Give it a Stir:
After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid and stir the oatmeal gently to mix the berries and oats together. If it looks a bit thick, you can add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Warm up some bowls and spoon out the delicious oatmeal. Top each serving with a dollop of plain yogurt or cream, and add some extra fresh berries on top for that perfect finishing touch.
6. Sweeten to Taste:
If you’d like, drizzle a little more maple syrup or honey over your bowl for that extra sweetness. Enjoy every spoonful of your cozy, berry-filled oatmeal!
This Slow Cooker Berry Oatmeal is not just tasty; it’s also nourishing and convenient. Perfect for chilly mornings when you want something warm and satisfying!
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, but keep in mind that steel-cut oats will require a longer cooking time. If you’re using them, cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, instead of 6 to 7. They will have a chewier texture compared to rolled oats.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just use a plant-based milk, like almond, soy, or oat milk, and opt for maple syrup as your sweetener to keep it completely vegan.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! Chopped nuts, seeds, nut butter, or sliced bananas make excellent toppings. You can also sprinkle some chia seeds or shredded coconut for added flavor and nutrition!
