Slow Cooker Apple Steel-Cut Oats

Imagine waking to the warm aroma of apples and cinnamon and finding a wholesome breakfast already waiting for you. That’s the beauty of Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats: creamy, comforting oats studded with tender apple chunks and scented with cinnamon, all finished by your slow cooker while you sleep.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Creamy, hearty steel cut oats combined with tender apple pieces and warm cinnamon—reminiscent of apple pie for breakfast.
Hands-off preparation: mix the ingredients the night before, set the slow cooker, and wake up to a ready-to-serve meal.
Dairy- and gluten-free friendly when made with your preferred non-dairy milk; the recipe uses only a few simple ingredients.

Recipe ingredients

These oats blend the classic flavors of apple and cinnamon with the satisfying chew of steel cut oats. The short ingredient list makes this an easy, flexible recipe you can adapt to taste.

Steel cut oats — made from whole oat groats, steel cut oats keep a firmer, chewier texture than rolled oats. Do not substitute with rolled oats or quick-cooking oats; they require less liquid and much less time.
Apples — use baking varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady; they hold shape best but will still soften during the long cook.
Milk — any dairy or non-dairy milk works. Almond, oat, or cow’s milk are all good choices.
Maple syrup — adds natural sweetness and depth; substitute with brown sugar or another sweetener if you prefer.
Cinnamon — ground cinnamon pairs perfectly with apple. For a twist, try cardamom or a chai spice blend.

See the recipe card below for exact quantities and cook time.

Crockpot steel cut oats in the slow cooker with apple slices on top

How to make steel cut oats in the crock pot

Slow cooker steel cut oats are one of the easiest breakfast solutions: a few minutes of prep the night before, and the slow cooker does the rest. The result is a creamy porridge with tender apples and warm spice.

Pro tip: For the first time you make this recipe, cook the oats during the day so you can observe how your slow cooker performs. Cooking times vary by model; longer cooking can create crispier edges and increases the risk of sticking or burning.

Generously spray the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray to reduce sticking and make cleanup easier.
If your slow cooker finishes before you wake, a model with a timer or a warm setting can prevent overcooking.
For very creamy oats without crispy edges, use a slow cooker liner or a piece of foil to cover the sides.

How to make apple crockpot steel cut oats

Spray the slow cooker well. Place the diced apples in the bottom of the pot.
In a bowl, combine the steel cut oats, milk, water, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Stir to combine, then pour the mixture over the apples.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until the oats are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Times vary by slow cooker.
Serve warm with extra milk if desired and top with additional apple slices, cinnamon, nuts, or your favorite toppings.

Apple slow cooker steel cut oats in a bowl with sliced apples

Recipe FAQs

Why are they called steel cut oats?

Steel cut oats are whole oat groats that have been chopped into smaller pieces. The cutting process gives them a chewy texture and nuttier flavor compared to rolled oats.

Can I substitute rolled oats for steel cut oats?

No. Rolled oats cook much faster and absorb less liquid, so they aren’t a direct substitute for steel cut oats in slow cooker recipes.

Recipe notes

Cooking times: Slow cooker models vary a lot. Test the recipe during the day the first time so you can determine the exact time needed for your appliance.
Prevent sticking: Use plenty of cooking spray or a slow cooker liner; the oats will cling to the sides as they cook.
Storage: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat with a splash of milk in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Wooden spoon digging into crockpot steel cut oats with apple

Recipe card

Apple Crockpot Steel Cut Oats

Servings: 6 | Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 6–8 hours

These Apple Crockpot Steel Cut Oats are an easy, wholesome make-ahead breakfast. They’re full of apple and cinnamon flavor, and suitable for dairy- and gluten-free diets when made with non-dairy milk.

Ingredients

2 medium apples, cored, peeled, and cut into 1″ cubes (Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp recommended)
1 cup steel cut oats
2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond milk)
2 cups water
4 tablespoons maple syrup (or brown sugar)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Generously spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Spread the diced apples in the bottom.
In a large bowl, stir together the steel cut oats, milk, water, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Pour the mixture over the apples in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until oats are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Serve warm, adding additional milk and toppings as desired.

Notes

Because slow cookers vary, cook once during the day to identify the ideal time for your unit. Longer cook times can create crispy edges or cause sticking.
Use a slow cooker liner or foil for extra-easy cleanup and an even creamier texture.
Leftovers refrigerate up to 5 days; reheat with milk on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutrition (per serving, estimated)

Calories: 170 kcal, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 4 g, Fat: 2 g, Fiber: 5 g, Sugar: 15 g (estimate)

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Blueberry baked oatmeal
Blueberry overnight oats
Peanut butter granola
Pumpkin overnight oats

Did you try this recipe? If so, leave a review below and tag @flavorthemoments on social media so the author can see your creation.

Recipe note: This recipe was originally published in October 2015. Photos and text have been updated to provide more detailed information.