Overnight Slow Cooker Apple Pie Steel Cut Oatmeal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it saves me time in the morning while still giving me something hearty and homemade. The steel cut oats stay chewy and satisfying, the apples add natural sweetness, and the slow cooker does all the work while I sleep. The clever water bath method prevents the edges from burning, so I don’t have to stir or worry about cleanup.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup steel cut oats (no substitutes)

• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (about 2 ½ cups)

• 2 cups apple juice

• 2 cups milk

• ¼ to ½ cup maple syrup

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional garnishes:

• Cream

• Maple syrup

• Cinnamon

• Chopped nuts

Directions

1. I place the oats, apples, apple juice, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt into an oven-safe baking dish (such as Pyrex or Corningware). I stir to combine.

2. I carefully set the baking dish inside my slow cooker, then pour water into the crock until it reaches about 1 inch below the rim of the baking dish.

3. I cover and cook on low for 8 hours overnight.

4. In the morning, I stir the oatmeal and serve it with my favorite toppings like cream, nuts, or extra maple syrup.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 servings. It takes just 10 minutes to prep and 8 hours to cook, for a total time of about 8 hours 10 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I leave the skin on the apples for extra texture. If I want more spice, I add a pinch of cloves or allspice. For creamier oatmeal, I use half-and-half or coconut milk in place of regular milk. If I want extra crunch, I sprinkle toasted pecans or granola on top before serving.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture. This oatmeal also freezes well in single portions for up to 2 months—I just thaw overnight and reheat as usual.

FAQs

Can I use rolled oats instead of steel cut oats?

No, rolled oats cook much faster and will become mushy with this method. Steel cut oats are essential for the texture.

Do I have to peel the apples?

No, I sometimes leave the skins on, and they soften nicely during cooking.

Can I make this without apple juice?

Yes, I replace the apple juice with more milk or water, though the flavor won’t be as sweet or apple-forward.

Can I cook this during the day instead of overnight?

Yes, I set it to cook for 8 hours during the day and reheat individual portions when needed.

How do I keep the oatmeal from sticking?

The water bath method prevents sticking and burnt edges. Using a baking dish inside the slow cooker is the trick that keeps cleanup easy.

Conclusion

Overnight slow cooker apple pie steel cut oatmeal is one of the easiest ways I treat myself to a cozy breakfast. I love how the apples and spices make it taste like dessert while still being wholesome and filling. Whether I serve it plain or with all the toppings, this recipe makes mornings so much easier and more delicious.