Cody Casey
Oatmeal is a nutritious and versatile food that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. While stovetop oatmeal is a popular option, it is also possible to make oatmeal in a crockpot or slow cooker. This method is ideal for preparing oatmeal for a large group or for making a nutritious breakfast with minimal morning preparation. Crockpot oatmeal is known for its luxuriously soft and creamy texture, and it can be customised with various toppings and mix-ins such as fruits, nuts, and spices. The cooking time and liquid ratio can vary depending on the type of oats used, with steel-cut oats being a popular choice for crockpot recipes due to their ability to withstand longer cook times.
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What You'll Learn
Creamy, soft oatmeal
Yes, you can cook oatmeal in a crock pot! Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect creamy, soft oatmeal:
Firstly, it is important to note that steel-cut oats are the best option for slow cooking as they hold up to longer cook times. Rolled oats will not give you the same creamy texture and may result in a gluey consistency.
Secondly, prepare your crock pot. It is recommended to use a liner to prevent the oatmeal from sticking. If you don't want to use a liner, spray the inside of the crock pot with a non-stick cooking spray.
Now, it's time to combine your ingredients. For creamy, soft oatmeal, the liquid you use is important. Milk is a great option, and you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond or oat milk. For every cup of oatmeal, use around four cups of liquid. You can also add cinnamon sticks for extra flavor. Give the ingredients a quick stir to combine them.
Cover the crock pot and set it to low. Avoid the temptation to stir the oatmeal while it cooks. Depending on your crock pot, you can cook the oatmeal for anywhere from two to eight hours. If you need to cook it overnight, start as late as possible and use the shorter cook time to prevent overcooking.
Once the oatmeal is tender and the liquid is absorbed, turn off the crock pot. If you are not serving the oatmeal immediately, let it sit overnight to achieve an even thicker consistency. When you are ready to serve, stir in a little extra milk or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Finally, serve the oatmeal with your choice of toppings. You can add honey or brown sugar to sweeten, along with fresh or dried fruit, nuts, and seeds for added texture and flavor.
Enjoy your creamy, soft oatmeal!
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Steel-cut oats vs. rolled oats
Oatmeal cooked in a slow cooker is a great option when serving a crowd or staggering breakfast diners. Unlike stovetop oatmeal, which is chewy and fluffy, slow cooker oatmeal is soft, rich, and creamy.
When it comes to choosing the type of oats, steel-cut and rolled oats are the most common options. Both types of oats are nutritious and can be part of a well-rounded diet. However, there are some differences between the two:
Processing
Steel-cut oats, also called Scottish, Irish, or old-fashioned oats, are the least processed form of oat grains. They are created when a full oat groat (the large grain) is sliced into pieces with steel, leaving much of the bran intact. Rolled oats, on the other hand, are flattened using large disks, making them flaky and soft, and able to absorb more liquid. They are also partially cooked, which is why they take less time to prepare than steel-cut oats.
Taste and Texture
Steel-cut oats have a coarser, chewier texture and a nuttier flavor compared to the milder taste of rolled oats. Rolled oats cook down to a creamy, smooth consistency, while steel-cut oats have a firmer texture.
Glycemic Index
Steel-cut oats have a lower glycemic index than rolled oats. This means they cause slower spikes in blood sugar and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Culinary Uses
The nutty texture of steel-cut oats makes them a good addition to savoury dishes like meatloaf or grain pilaf. Rolled oats, with their absorbency, are better suited for baked goods such as cookies, cakes, or fruit crisps.
In conclusion, the choice between steel-cut and rolled oats depends on your personal preference, the amount of time you have for cooking, and how you intend to use the oats.
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Cooking time and temperature
The cooking time and temperature for oatmeal in a crock pot depend on the type of oats used. Rolled oats are not suitable for long cooking times, while steel-cut oats can withstand longer cooking.
For rolled oats, it is recommended to cook on low for eight hours or overnight. However, some sources suggest cooking on high for one to one and a half hours or until the liquid is absorbed and the oatmeal is tender. If cooking on low, avoid stirring while the oats cook.
For steel-cut oats, cooking times can vary. Some sources recommend cooking for three to four hours on low, while others suggest cooking overnight. It is important to note that not all crock pots cook at the same temperature, so the cooking time may need to be adjusted accordingly.
When making oatmeal in a crock pot, it is important to avoid overcooking, as this can result in mushy oats. It is recommended to stir and taste the oats occasionally to ensure they do not overcook. Additionally, using a liner or spraying the crock pot with cooking spray can help prevent the oats from sticking.
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Toppings and add-ins
Oatmeal cooked in a crock pot is a great way to feed a crowd or stagger breakfast diners. It is also a good option for those who want a nutritious and hearty breakfast with minimal preparation time.
There are endless possibilities for toppings and add-ins to crock pot oatmeal. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Fruits: Bananas, apples, dried fruits (such as apricots, dates, plums, and raisins), or any other fruit of your choice.
- Nuts: Chopped nuts not only add a nice crunch to the oatmeal but also provide extra fiber and nutrients.
- Dairy: Milk, cream, butter, or yogurt can be added to make the oatmeal creamier and richer.
- Sweeteners: Honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar can be drizzled on top for added sweetness and flavor.
- Spices: Cinnamon, cardamom, or vanilla can enhance the flavor and aroma of the oatmeal.
- Seeds: Chia seeds or flax seeds not only add a crunchy texture but also provide additional fiber and nutrients.
- Other: For extra flavor and nutrition, try adding flaxseed meal, protein powder, peanut butter, or cocoa powder.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations of toppings and add-ins to find your favorite crock pot oatmeal creation!
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Storing and reheating
Leftover oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–5 days. It tends to thicken as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of milk, water, apple juice, or cream to loosen it up. You can also add a drizzle of maple syrup or a handful of nuts for extra flavour.
For freezing, it is recommended to portion the oatmeal into single servings and freeze them in containers or zip-top bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge, then place in a heat-safe bowl and reheat in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each interval. You can also reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can cook oatmeal in a crock pot.
It can take anywhere from 1 to 8 hours to cook oatmeal in a crock pot, depending on the heat setting.
Steel-cut oats are recommended for crock pots because they hold up to longer cook times. Rolled oats may get mushy.
You can add water, milk, cinnamon, honey, or other desired toppings to oatmeal when cooking it in a crock pot.
