Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe with Video

Slow cooker apple cinnamon oatmeal is a cozy, hands-off breakfast that practically makes itself. Using steel-cut oats, fresh apples, warming cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup, this recipe yields creamy, perfectly cooked oatmeal with very little effort. It’s ideal for busy mornings, meal prep, or anyone who wants a nourishing start to the day. Instructions for making this in the Instant Pot are also included.

Table of Contents

Ingredients For Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Oats: Steel-cut oats are recommended for the best texture.
Apple: Any variety works—Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness, Granny Smith for a tart note.
Cinnamon: Adds classic warmth and pairs perfectly with apple.
Milk of your choice: Dairy milk, almond, oat, or coconut milk. Full-fat options create a creamier result.
Maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness; adjust to taste.
Vanilla: A splash of vanilla enhances the aroma and flavor.

steel cut oats in a white bowl — steel cut oats

How To Make Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Slow Cooker

Generously spray the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and stir to combine evenly.
Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours, depending on your schedule and slow cooker model.
Stir well before serving to evenly distribute fruit and oats.

Instant Pot

Spray the Instant Pot insert with cooking spray.
Add all ingredients and stir gently so nothing clings to the sides. Set to high pressure for 4 minutes.
Allow the pressure to naturally release before opening the lid.
Stir well before serving.

overhead shot of a before pic of uncooked apple cinnamon oatmeal in a white slow cooker — before

overhead shot of cooked apple cinnamon oatmeal in a white slow cooker — after

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Set-it-and-forget-it: Ideal for overnight or early-morning cooking.
Meal prep friendly: Make a batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Naturally sweetened: Maple syrup adds gentle, natural sweetness.
Hearty and filling: Steel-cut oats keep you satisfied for longer.
Customizable: Swap apples, milk, or sweetener to suit your taste.
Cozy and comforting: Classic apple-cinnamon flavor feels like breakfast comfort food.

FAQs & Tips

What is oatmeal?

Oatmeal refers to porridge made from whole, steel-cut, or rolled oats. The grain is simply processed to different textures, which affects cooking time and final texture. For slow cooker recipes, steel-cut oats provide a chewy, hearty result.

Should you use steel-cut or rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats are best for slow cooker oatmeal because they hold their texture and become creamy without turning mushy. Rolled oats can be used with adjusted cook times—about 1–2 hours on high or 2–4 hours on low in a slow cooker—and a different liquid ratio. This recipe does not work with instant oatmeal.

Liquid-to-oats ratio:
Steel-cut: 3 cups liquid to 1 cup oats
Rolled: 2 cups liquid to 1 cup oats

Should you use water or milk?

You can use all water, all milk, or a combination. Milk (dairy or plant-based) will yield creamier oatmeal. For a vegan version, use a plant milk such as almond or oat milk.

How do you make this vegan?

Use a plant-based milk (almond, oat, coconut) and a vegan sweetener such as maple syrup to keep the recipe fully plant-based.

Do you have to use maple syrup?

No. Maple syrup enhances flavor naturally, but you can substitute brown sugar, granulated sugar, or honey (not vegan) if you prefer.

Can you double this recipe?

Yes. You can double or triple the ingredients without changing cook time, provided you use a larger slow cooker or Instant Pot to accommodate the extra volume.

Will the oatmeal stick to the appliance?

Spraying the slow cooker or Instant Pot with cooking spray greatly reduces sticking. Some residue on the sides or bottom is normal, but proper greasing helps prevent excessive sticking.

How do you serve this?

Serve with your favorite toppings: extra fruit, chopped nuts, granola, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a splash of milk. Customize to taste.

How do you store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture.

What size slow cooker did you use?

The recipe was developed using a smaller slow cooker (around 3.5 quarts). If preparing larger quantities, use a larger cooker and follow the same cook times.

Oatmeal Recipes

Old Fashioned Oatmeal
Pumpkin
Creamy Berry
Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats

This recipe first appeared in the cookbook The Easy & Healthy Slow Cooker Cookbook.