Overnight Oatmeal w/ Apples, Cranberries, Walnuts

Indulge in the comforting flavors of our overnight slow cooker oatmeal loaded with sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. This is a simple, no-fuss recipe that you prepare before bed and wake up to a ready-to-eat, nutritious breakfast. Let your slow cooker do the work while you sleep, making your mornings less hectic and more delicious.

slow-cooker-overnight-oatmeal-with-apples-cranberries-and-walnuts-recipe

Photos of Slow Cooker Overnight Oatmeal with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts Recipe

For this recipe, you'll need steel-cut oats, not to be confused with instant or rolled oats. Steel-cut oats are whole grain oat groats that have been chopped into pieces but not rolled. They have a hearty, chewy texture and are commonly found in the cereal or health food aisle in the supermarket. Additionally, dried cranberries might be found in the baking or dried fruit section.

Ingredients for Overnight Slow Cooker Oatmeal with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts

Apples: The star of this dish, they add a fresh, fruity taste. Use your favorite variety.

Dried cranberries: These add a tart contrast to the sweet apples and a chewy texture to the oatmeal.

Steel-cut oats: These oats are less processed than rolled oats, providing a chewier texture and nuttier flavor.

Brown sugar: Gives the oatmeal a deep, rich sweetness.

Butter: Adds a creamy, rich flavor to the oats.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and sweetness to the oatmeal.

Ground nutmeg: Gives a hint of holiday spice.

Milk: Makes the oatmeal creamy and rich.

Water: Liquids help in cooking the oats to the perfect texture.

Walnuts: These are used as a topping and provide a crunchy contrast to the soft-cooked oatmeal.

One reader, Connor Fraser says:

This overnight slow cooker oatmeal recipe is a game-changer! The combination of apples, cranberries, and walnuts creates a delightful flavor. Waking up to a warm, hearty breakfast is such a treat. Plus, it's so convenient to prepare. I highly recommend trying it out!

Connor Fraser

Techniques for Making Overnight Slow Cooker Oatmeal

How to prepare the slow cooker: Line the slow cooker with a disposable slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier.

How to mix the ingredients: Combine the apples, cranberries, oats, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg in the slow cooker. Then, pour in the milk and water and mix everything together.

How to cook the oatmeal: Set the slow cooker to low and cook the oatmeal for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the oats to soften.

How to serve: Once the oatmeal is cooked, sprinkle it with chopped walnuts before serving.

How To Make Slow Cooker Overnight Oatmeal with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts

Enjoy the natural sugar from apples and cranberries, plus the crunch from walnuts added to this overnight oatmeal that is definitely worth the wait!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 6 hours

Total: 6 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsapples,chopped
½cupdried cranberries
1cupsteel-cut oats
½cupbrown sugar,packed
2tbspbutter,sliced
1tspvanilla extract
1tspground cinnamon,or more to taste
¼tspground nutmeg
2cupsmilk
2cupswater
½cupwalnuts,chopped

Instructions

Line a 3½- or 4-quart slow cooker with a disposable slow cooker liner.
Place apples, cranberries, oats, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg inside. Pour in milk and water and mix to combine. Cover.
Cook on Low for about 6 to 8 hours. Sprinkle cooked oatmeal with chopped walnuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 234.69kcal
Fat: 7.86g
Saturated Fat: 4.16g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.98g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.85g
Carbohydrates: 38.72g
Fiber: 2.97g
Sugar: 26.47g
Protein: 4.62g
Cholesterol: 18.31mg
Sodium: 43.23mg
Calcium: 119.81mg
Potassium: 219.91mg
Iron: 0.88mg
Vitamin A: 70.95µg
Vitamin C: 1.72mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Slow Cooker Oatmeal

To ensure your oatmeal is creamy and not too thick, you might want to check it after about 5 hours. If it's already at your desired consistency, turn off the slow cooker to prevent it from becoming too thick or potentially burning. If you find it's too thick, simply add a bit more milk or water and stir well. Remember, the oatmeal will continue to thicken as it cools.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Slow Cooker Oatmeal Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop the apples and measure out the dry ingredients the night before. This will save you time in the morning and make the assembly process much smoother.

Use a slow cooker liner: Using a disposable slow cooker liner will make cleanup a breeze, saving you time and effort.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch and store the leftovers in the refrigerator for a quick and easy breakfast throughout the week.

Set a timer: Use a timer to ensure that the oatmeal doesn't overcook, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it's cooking.

Prep the toppings: Measure out the walnuts and have them ready to sprinkle on top when the oatmeal is done cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Overnight Oatmeal with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts Recipe

apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness to apples, making them a great substitute in this recipe.
dried cranberries - Substitute with raisins: Raisins provide a similar chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor that complements the oats and apples.
steel-cut oats - Substitute with rolled oats: Rolled oats can be used as a substitute for steel-cut oats, although the texture may be slightly different.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, sweet flavor to the oatmeal, and it also complements the other ingredients well.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a rich, creamy texture to the oatmeal, similar to butter.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a nutty flavor to the oatmeal.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar crunch and nutty flavor to walnuts, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.

Presenting Overnight Slow Cooker Oatmeal with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts

Elevate the oatmeal: Use a shallow bowl to showcase the layers of apples, cranberries, and walnuts. The oatmeal should be the star of the dish, so ensure it is presented in a visually appealing manner.
Garnish with fresh apple slices: Thinly slice fresh apples and arrange them on top of the oatmeal. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal.
Drizzle with honey: Before serving, drizzle a small amount of honey over the oatmeal. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also creates an elegant finishing touch to the presentation.
Sprinkle with cinnamon: Lightly dust the oatmeal with a sprinkle of cinnamon just before serving. This not only enhances the aroma but also adds a beautiful contrast of color to the dish.
Serve with a side of Greek yogurt: Present a small side dish of Greek yogurt alongside the oatmeal. This adds a creamy element to the presentation and allows guests to customize their oatmeal to their liking.
Use a unique serving vessel: Consider serving the oatmeal in a unique vessel, such as a ceramic ramekin or a stylish bowl, to add an element of sophistication to the presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Garnish the oatmeal with a few edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums, to add a delicate and elegant touch to the presentation.
Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut: A sprinkle of toasted coconut on top of the oatmeal adds a delightful crunch and a hint of tropical flair to the presentation.
Present with a sprig of fresh mint: Before serving, tuck a small sprig of fresh mint into the oatmeal for a burst of color and a refreshing aroma.
Serve on a wooden board: For a rustic yet refined presentation, serve the oatmeal on a wooden board, accompanied by small bowls of additional toppings for guests to customize their dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Slow Cooker Oatmeal

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is an electric countertop cooking appliance that allows for long, slow cooking at low temperatures. It's perfect for making overnight oatmeal as it can cook the oats and other ingredients slowly and evenly.
Disposable slow cooker liner: This is a disposable plastic liner that fits inside the slow cooker to make cleanup easier. It prevents food from sticking to the sides of the slow cooker and makes for easy removal and cleaning.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are essential for accurately measuring out ingredients such as oats, brown sugar, and spices to ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures in the oatmeal.
Chopping board and knife: These are needed for preparing the apples and walnuts by chopping them into the desired sizes for the oatmeal.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is necessary for combining all the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring that everything is evenly distributed for a delicious oatmeal.
Crockery bowl: A crockery bowl can be used for serving the oatmeal once it's cooked, providing a beautiful presentation for the dish.

Storing and Freezing Overnight Slow Cooker Oatmeal

Let the oatmeal cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, portion the cooled oatmeal into individual serving sizes and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label the containers with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen oatmeal in the refrigerator overnight or defrost it in the microwave. Reheat the oatmeal in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to achieve the desired consistency.
For the best texture and flavor, add fresh toppings such as chopped apples, cranberries, and walnuts after reheating the oatmeal.
If you plan to freeze the oatmeal, consider leaving out the walnuts and adding them only when serving, as they may become soft and lose their crunch after being frozen and reheated.

How To Reheat Leftover Slow Cooker Oatmeal

Reheat the leftover oatmeal in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring in a splash of milk or water to loosen the consistency. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through. Adjust the liquid and cooking time based on the portion size and desired consistency.
For a stovetop method, transfer the oatmeal to a saucepan and add a small amount of milk or water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through and creamy. Add more liquid as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
To reheat in the slow cooker, transfer the leftover oatmeal back into the slow cooker and add a splash of milk or water. Set the slow cooker to low and let it warm for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method is best for larger portions.
For a crispy twist, spread the leftover oatmeal in a thin layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little melted butter or coconut oil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. Break the crispy oatmeal into chunks and serve as a topping for yogurt or as a crunchy snack.
To maintain the texture of the apples, cranberries, and walnuts, reheat the oatmeal without these mix-ins. Once the oatmeal is heated through, stir in fresh, chopped apples, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts for a burst of flavor and texture.

Interesting Fact About Overnight Slow Cooker Oatmeal

Steel-cut oats are a great source of fiber and protein, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. They also have a lower glycemic index compared to rolled oats, which means they can help keep your blood sugar levels stable.

Is Making Slow Cooker Oatmeal Cost-Effective?

This overnight slow cooker oatmeal with apples, cranberries, and walnuts recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as apples, cranberries, and oats, are affordable and readily available. The slow cooking method also saves energy costs. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its nutritional value, ease of preparation, and budget-friendly nature.

Is This Slow Cooker Oatmeal Recipe Healthy?

This overnight slow cooker oatmeal recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like apples, cranberries, and walnuts, which provide fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. Steel-cut oats are also a great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber. However, the recipe also contains a significant amount of added sugar from the brown sugar, which can be detrimental to health when consumed in excess. The butter and whole milk also contribute to the overall calorie and saturated fat content of the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
Use a plant-based milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk, to lower the saturated fat content
Replace the butter with a healthier fat source, like coconut oil or nut butter
Increase the proportion of fruits and nuts to boost the nutrient density of the oatmeal
Add a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt to increase the protein content and keep you feeling full longer

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Oatmeal Recipe

The combination of apples, cranberries, and walnuts in this overnight slow cooker oatmeal creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The use of steel-cut oats ensures a hearty and satisfying breakfast. The addition of brown sugar, butter, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds a comforting sweetness and aroma. Cooking the oatmeal overnight allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a delicious and convenient morning meal. Overall, this recipe offers a wholesome and flavorful way to start the day.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Overnight Oatmeal with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze and bacon for a savory and tangy side dish.

Grilled Asparagus: Season asparagus with garlic, lemon, and parmesan for a zesty and flavorful accompaniment.

Braised Carrots: Simmer carrots in a honey and thyme-infused broth for a sweet and aromatic side dish.

Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes: Mix caramelized onions into creamy mashed potatoes for a rich and indulgent addition to your meal.

Similar Recipes to Overnight Slow Cooker Oatmeal

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy texture makes this soup a crowd-pleaser.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: These garlic parmesan roasted vegetables are a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with any main course. The combination of roasted vegetables with garlic and parmesan creates a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: This honey mustard glazed salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for a special dinner. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a delicious glaze that pairs perfectly with the tender salmon.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Overnight Slow Cooker Oatmeal

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a flavorful filling using a combination of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then stuff it into mushroom caps and bake until golden and bubbly. Serve these savory stuffed mushrooms as a delicious appetizer for any gathering.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Grate zucchini and mix it with herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs to form patties. Pan-fry until golden and crispy, then serve with a side of creamy dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey goodness. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious, creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it off with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity sweetness in every bite.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Overnight Oatmeal with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of apples, cranberries, and walnuts that provide a burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch. The slow cooker method ensures that the oats are perfectly cooked and infused with the delicious blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. With the addition of milk and water, this recipe promises a creamy and comforting texture. The use of brown sugar and vanilla extract adds a touch of sweetness and warmth. Trust in this recipe for a hearty and nutritious breakfast that will surely impress.

If you tried this Slow Cooker Overnight Oatmeal with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts recipe or have any tips to share, head over to the Recipe Sharing section and let us know your thoughts!

FAQ:

Can I use quick oats instead of steel-cut oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats instead of steel-cut oats, but the texture and cooking time may vary. Quick oats will cook faster and may result in a softer texture.

Can I substitute the dried cranberries with another dried fruit?

Absolutely! You can substitute the dried cranberries with raisins, chopped apricots, or any other dried fruit of your choice.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Of course! Feel free to use almonds, pecans, or any other nuts you prefer in place of walnuts.

Can I use a dairy-free milk alternative?

Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other dairy-free milk alternative as a substitute for regular milk.

Can I prepare this oatmeal recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare this oatmeal on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a pot over low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats are tender.