As the crisp air of fall descends, I find myself longing for those flavors that warm the soul. Enter my Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal—a delightful twist on a classic dessert that transforms into a nourishing breakfast. This vegan, gluten-free recipe features steel-cut oats cooked overnight with creamy pumpkin puree and a fragrant medley of spices, capturing the very essence of autumn in every comforting spoonful. One of the best parts? You only need 10 minutes to prep, letting your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you enjoy a cozy morning. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor this delicious, healthy dish throughout the week. Can you imagine waking up to such a wholesome treat each day? It’s time to make your mornings a little brighter!
Why Will You Love This Recipe?
Convenience at its Finest: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can set and forget your slow cooker, making busy mornings stress-free.
Rich, Comforting Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and other spices creates a delightful taste that embodies the season.
Healthy and Wholesome: Loaded with fiber and plant-based protein, this oatmeal keeps you satisfied while maintaining your healthy eating goals.
Versatile and Adaptable: Whether you prefer it topped with chopped pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup, the topping possibilities are endless for a personalized touch! For a nut-free option, check out my banana cream pies recipe for inspiration on delightful toppings.
Meal Prep Approved: Perfect for batch cooking, you can enjoy this cozy breakfast all week long. Simply portion it out and reheat for a quick, nutritious option every morning.
Fall-Inspired Treat: Celebrate the flavors of autumn with a dish that comforts like a warm hug, reminding you to relish every spoonful. Ready to warm up your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Ingredients
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For the Oatmeal Base
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Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking in the slow cooker; butter or coconut oil works as a non-stick option.
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Steel-Cut Oats – The foundation for this oatmeal, offering a chewy texture; avoid substituting with rolled or quick oats for best results.
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Water – Necessary for cooking the oats; replace with more almond milk for added creaminess.
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Unsweetened Almond Milk – Provides creaminess and flavor; feel free to substitute with any plant-based or dairy milk.
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Canned Pumpkin – Delivers that classic pumpkin taste; homemade pumpkin puree is a great alternative.
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Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the oatmeal; agave syrup or brown sugar can be used instead for a different flavor.
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Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; it’s optional but recommended for added depth.
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Pumpkin Pie Spice – Vital for that quintessential pumpkin pie essence; substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg if needed.
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Ground Cinnamon – Complements the pumpkin spice beautifully; fresh cinnamon will ramp up the flavor intensity.
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Salt – Balances sweetness and improves flavor; can be omitted for a sodium-reduced version.
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For the Toppings
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Chopped Pecans – A delightful topping that adds texture; walnuts can be swapped, or you can leave them out for a nut-free dish.
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Additional Maple Syrup – For a touch more sweetness, drizzle on top before serving.
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Almond Milk – Drizzle more over the finished bowl to achieve your desired creaminess.
This comforting Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is ready to nourish your mornings with the warm flavors of fall!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
Step 1: Prepare Slow Cooker
Start by coating the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray, butter, or coconut oil to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for ensuring your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal slides right out in the morning and maintains its creamy texture. Take a moment to let the cooking spray settle in while you gather the other ingredients.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the steel-cut oats, water, and unsweetened almond milk, stirring gently to blend. Next, add in the canned pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything well, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a thick, fragrant mixture that will transform into a delightful oatmeal.
Step 3: Set Cooking Program
Pour the prepared mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Set your slow cooker to low and program it to cook for 6 to 8 hours, ideally choosing the 7-hour mark if you have a programmable model. As it cooks, the slow heat will coax out the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice, filling your kitchen with warmth.
Step 4: Morning Serving
Once the slow cooker cycle completes, gently stir the oatmeal to combine as the oats may have settled. The Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal should appear creamy and well-blended. Serve it warm in bowls, topped with a sprinkle of chopped pecans, a drizzle of extra maple syrup, and a splash of almond milk for added richness.
Step 5: Storage
If you have leftovers, allow the oatmeal to cool before transferring it into a sealed container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of almond milk or water to regain its creamy consistency before savoring.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
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Fridge: Allow leftover oatmeal to cool completely before transferring it to a sealed container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to one week.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the oatmeal in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-labeled with the date.
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Reheating: To enjoy the frozen oatmeal, thaw overnight in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of almond milk or water to restore its creamy texture.
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Room Temperature: It’s best to keep oatmeal out of room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage, so aim to refrigerate or freeze leftovers promptly.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
Elevate your breakfast experience with delightful pairings that harmonize beautifully with the warm flavors of this cozy fall dish.
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Creamy Almond Yogurt: A dollop of almond yogurt adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet oatmeal, enhancing your morning bowl with creaminess.
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Warm Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed cinnamon apples bring a fruity twist, perfectly complementing the pumpkin flavor while adding a burst of freshness.
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Toasty Whole Grain Bread: Serve with a slice of hearty, toasted bread for a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy texture of the oatmeal.
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Spiced Roasted Nuts: A mix of spiced roasted nuts adds a delightful crunch and depth, creating a nutty contrast that whispers fall in every bite.
Pair your oatmeal with a cup of warming chai tea to enhance the comforting spices, making each sip and bite a cozy experience to cherish.
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Maple Drizzle Banana Muffins: These muffins echo the flavors of the oatmeal and create a sweet, delightful pairing that’s perfect for brunch or snacking!
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Hot Chocolate or Cocoa: For a delightful contrast, enjoy a rich cup of hot cocoa alongside your oatmeal, adding warmth to your breakfast table.
Make every morning memorable with these thoughtful combinations that elevate the beloved flavors of your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
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Right Oats Only: Stick with steel-cut oats for a perfect chewy texture; using rolled or quick oats will lead to unpleasant mushiness.
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Taste Test Sweetness: Before serving, give your oatmeal a taste; adjust sweetness with additional maple syrup based on your preference.
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Reheat with Care: To restore creaminess when reheating, add a splash of almond milk; this prevents the oatmeal from becoming too thick and dry.
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Perfectly Creamy: For an extra creamy result, replace some or all of the water with additional almond milk during cooking; this boosts texture.
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Flavor Customization: Don’t hesitate to explore different spices or even add chocolate chips for a fun twist on your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the oatmeal mixture (steel-cut oats, almond milk, pumpkin, maple syrup, and spices) up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate overnight to keep them fresh. In the morning, set the slow cooker to low and allow it to cook for 6-8 hours while you go about your day. This guarantees a nutritious breakfast awaits you with minimal effort, just stir and serve! To maintain quality, store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week, reheating with a splash of almond milk for creamy results.
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own flair on this cozy oatmeal recipe! The delightful aromas and flavors invite creative twists that will keep your mornings exciting.
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Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and substitute with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunch that’s just as satisfying.
This ensures everyone can enjoy it, particularly those with nut allergies. -
Flavor Boost: Add ginger or nutmeg for a unique spin on the traditional pumpkin pie flavor.
You could even toss in a handful of dried cranberries to bring a lovely tartness that complements the sweet. -
Creaminess Upgrade: Swap out water for extra almond milk to achieve a richer, creamier oatmeal.
The result will be a luscious breakfast that feels like a treat! -
Choco-Pumpkin Delight: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips before serving for a sweeter, indulgent option.
The melty chocolate combined with pumpkin will create a delightful breakfast that feels more like dessert! -
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
This subtle kick can elevate the flavors and add a touch of excitement to your oatmeal! -
Banana Creme Twist: Add mashed bananas to the mix for natural sweetness and extra creaminess.
You can even pair it with toppings from your favorite Banana Cream Pies for an unforgettable treat. -
Oatmeal Bowl Bar: Serve oatmeal with a variety of toppings like coconut flakes, chia seeds, or dried fruits, letting everyone personalize their bowl.
This option is perfect for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a little something different. -
Pumpkin Spice Latte Fusion: Add a splash of brewed coffee or espresso for an energizing morning boost.
This delicious combination will satisfy both coffee and oatmeal lovers alike!
Let your creativity shine, and experiment with these variations to make this oatmeal your own!
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Recipe FAQs
What type of oats should I use for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal?
Absolutely stick to steel-cut oats! They provide the perfect chewy texture that makes this oatmeal delightful. Using rolled or quick oats will result in a mushy consistency that just won’t do justice to the comforting flavors you’re craving.
How should I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal?
After enjoying your warm bowl of oatmeal, allow any leftovers to cool completely. Transfer it to a sealed container, and you can store it in the fridge for up to one week. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of almond milk or water to regain that creamy goodness.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the oatmeal to cool, then portion it out into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of almond milk for a fresh taste.
What if my oatmeal turns out too thick?
If you encounter thick oatmeal, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of almond milk or water while reheating. Stir well to achieve your desired consistency. This little trick will help ensure that each bite remains comforting and creamy.
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Very! While this recipe calls for unsweetened almond milk, you can absolutely substitute it with any milk you prefer, including dairy milk. Just keep in mind that this would no longer be dairy-free, so choose an option that matches your dietary needs.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! The Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that your steel-cut oats are labeled as gluten-free. This makes it a wholesome and safe option for those avoiding gluten in their diet.
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal for a Cozy Fall Breakfast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray, butter, or coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the steel-cut oats, water, and unsweetened almond milk. Add in the canned pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything well.
- Pour the mixture into the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, ideally 7 hours.
- Once the cycle completes, stir the oatmeal to combine. Serve warm topped with chopped pecans, additional maple syrup, and a splash of almond milk.
- If you have leftovers, cool and transfer to a sealed container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
