Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm, cinnamon-infused oatmeal filled with juicy apples and tart cranberries, without spending hours in the kitchen. This Cranberry Apple Slow Cooker Oatmeal is your ticket to a hassle-free, delicious breakfast that feels like a morning hug. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent rushing to get kids ready, or someone who loves a hearty breakfast without the morning stress, this recipe is about to become your new breakfast superhero.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 4 cups water or milk
- 1 cup cranberries
- 2 apples, diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by washing and dicing the apples into small, uniform cubes. Rinse the fresh cranberries and set aside.
- Grease the inside of the slow cooker with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Add the rolled oats to the slow cooker, spreading them evenly across the bottom of the cooking vessel.
- Pour the water or milk over the oats, ensuring all oats are submerged in the liquid.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt over the liquid and oats, creating an even distribution of flavors.
- Add the diced apples and cranberries on top of the oat mixture, gently pressing them slightly into the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat setting for 6 hours, which allows the ingredients to cook slowly and develop rich flavors.
- After 6 hours, check the consistency of the oatmeal. If it's too thick, stir in a little additional milk or water to reach desired texture.
- Stir the oatmeal gently to incorporate the fruits and distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with additional fresh cranberries, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon.
Tips
- Choose the right oats: Rolled oats work best for slow cooker recipes, providing the perfect texture and absorption.
- Liquid ratio matters: Always ensure your oats are fully submerged in liquid to prevent burning and achieve creamy consistency.
- Prevent sticking: Generously grease your slow cooker or use a liner for easy cleanup.
- Customize your toppings: Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make ahead and store: This oatmeal can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, making meal prep a breeze.
- Temperature tip: Always use the low setting to allow flavors to develop slowly and prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
