Crockpot Overnight Oatmeal Recipe
Introduction
Crockpot Overnight Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast that’s effortlessly prepared the night before. With minimal hands-on time, you wake up to creamy, perfectly cooked oats ready to enjoy. Customize it with your favorite fruits and toppings for a wholesome start to your day.

Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 4 cups water or milk (or a combination)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced apples or berries (optional)
- Toppings: nuts, honey, yogurt, or additional fruit
Instructions
- Step 1: In the Crockpot, combine the rolled oats, water or milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Step 2: If using, add the diced apples or berries to the mixture and gently stir.
- Step 3: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours overnight, allowing the oats to soften and flavors to develop.
- Step 4: In the morning, stir the oatmeal to combine, then serve hot with your choice of nuts, honey, yogurt, or extra fruit toppings.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of water and milk for a creamier texture without too many extra calories.
- Swap brown sugar for maple syrup or honey if you prefer a different sweetness.
- Try adding spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract for extra warmth and flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, use almond milk, coconut milk, or another plant-based milk.
Storage
Store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats require longer cooking times and more liquid, so they are not ideal for this overnight Crockpot recipe. Stick with rolled oats for the best texture and timing.
Is it possible to make this recipe on the stove or in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook a similar oatmeal on the stove, but it requires more attention and stirring. An Instant Pot can work well with the slow cook or porridge settings, but times may vary.
PrintCrockpot Overnight Oatmeal Recipe
This Crockpot Overnight Oatmeal recipe offers a warm, hearty, and convenient breakfast option that you can prepare the night before. Combining rolled oats with milk or water, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, this slow-cooked dish becomes creamy and flavorful by morning. Optional diced apples or berries add a fresh, fruity touch, while customizable toppings like nuts, honey, yogurt, or extra fruit let you tailor each bowl to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 4 cups water or milk (or a combination)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced apples or berries (optional)
Toppings
- Nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
- Honey
- Yogurt
- Additional fresh fruit
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In the Crockpot, mix together the rolled oats, water or milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add Fruit: If using, stir in the diced apples or berries to integrate fresh fruit into the oatmeal base for added flavor and texture.
- Cook Overnight: Cover the Crockpot and set it to cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the oats to slowly absorb the liquid and flavors for a creamy consistency by morning.
- Serve: In the morning, give the oatmeal a good stir to mix any separated liquid back in and scoop into bowls. Top with your preferred toppings such as nuts, honey, yogurt, or additional fruit, and enjoy a warm, nourishing breakfast.
Notes
- This recipe can be personalized with your choice of milk (dairy or plant-based) or water depending on dietary preferences.
- Adjust the brown sugar amount to make the oatmeal more or less sweet as desired.
- For a thicker oatmeal, reduce the liquid slightly; for creamier texture, increase the milk proportion.
- The cooking time on low heat may vary depending on the Crockpot model; start checking at 6 hours.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of milk or water.
Keywords: overnight oatmeal, crockpot oatmeal, slow cooker breakfast, healthy oatmeal, easy breakfast recipe, make-ahead breakfast, cinnamon oatmeal, fruit oatmeal

