Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats

Imagine waking up to a warm, hearty bowl of steel cut oats that’s been cooking overnight while you slept. That’s right; no more rushing in the morning or compromising on a nourishing breakfast. With the magic of your slow cooker, you can prepare Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats, a delightful and wholesome start to your day. Packed with fiber, protein, and the natural sweetness of bananas, these oats are not only filling but also incredibly versatile.

Creating this dish is as simple as tossing a few ingredients into your slow cooker before bed and letting them work their magic. The result is a creamy, comforting bowl of oats that will have you craving breakfast again and again.

Why Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats is Worth Your Time

Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats is the perfect breakfast for busy mornings. Here’s why you’ll love making this dish:

• Time-Saving: Prep takes less than 15 minutes before bed, and you wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast.
• Customizable: You can personalize your oats with various toppings, from nuts to fruits.
• Nutritious: Steel cut oats are packed with fiber and nutrients, keeping you full and satisfied.
• Batch Cooking: Make a large batch and enjoy throughout the week for easy breakfasts.

Ingredient List

To create your delicious Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 cups steel cut oats (do not substitute with quick cooking, instant, or rolled oats)
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups milk (any kind you like; I used skim)
• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed (plus additional banana slices for serving)
• 3 tablespoons ground flaxseed meal
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (grate your own for an amazing flavor upgrade)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For serving, consider adding:

• Chopped toasted walnuts
• Raisins
• Chocolate chips
• Maple syrup
• Peanut butter
• Any other mix-ins you enjoy with banana bread

Toolbox for This Recipe

To make your Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats, you will need:

• Slow Cooker: A standard slow cooker works perfectly for this recipe.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine your ingredients easily.
• Masher: For mashing the bananas to incorporate them well into the oats.
• Spoon: For serving and stirring.

Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats in Steps

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Measure out the steel cut oats, water, milk, mashed bananas, flaxseed meal, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add 1.5 cups of steel cut oats, 4 cups of water, 2 cups of milk, 2 mashed bananas, 3 tablespoons of ground flaxseed meal, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Set Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the oats to cook overnight, approximately 7 to 8 hours.

Step 4: Serve Your Oats

In the morning, stir the oats to combine and serve hot. Top your bowl with additional banana slices and your favorite mix-ins like chopped walnuts, raisins, chocolate chips, maple syrup, or peanut butter.

Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to make your Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats even healthier, consider these substitutions:

• Milk Alternatives: Use almond, coconut, or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Sweeteners: Reduce or eliminate sweeteners by using more ripe bananas or opting for natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup.
• Add-ins: Incorporate chia seeds for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Fruits: Add berries or other fruits for added vitamins and antioxidants.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

After testing this recipe multiple times, here are some valuable notes:

• Always use steel cut oats; other types of oats will result in a mushy texture.
• For an extra creamy texture, increase the milk by 1 cup.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the water by 1 cup.
• Tweaking the spices can create a different flavor profile; try adding a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Storing your Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats is easy:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the consistency.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Your Top Questions

Can I use rolled oats instead of steel cut oats?

No, do not substitute rolled oats or instant oats in this recipe. Steel cut oats are necessary for the best texture and flavor.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the oats?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more mashed bananas or using sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Taste-test to find your preferred level of sweetness!

Is it okay to leave the slow cooker on overnight?

Yes, it is safe to leave your slow cooker on low heat overnight. Just ensure your slow cooker is in good working order and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use plant-based milk and omit any non-vegan toppings to keep it completely vegan.

Reader Favorites

• Sally’s Healthy Banana Bread
• Pinch of Yum Breakfast Buddha Bowl
• Minimalist Baker’s Vegan Banana Bread

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the perfect recipe for Overnight Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats, it’s time to take the plunge! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can elevate your breakfast game to new heights. Imagine savoring a warm bowl of creamy oats topped with your favorite mix-ins, all while knowing you started your day with something incredibly wholesome. So grab your slow cooker, get cooking, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you in the morning!