Christmas apple pie oatmeal in the crockpot is a heartwarming breakfast that captures the essence of holiday cheer. This recipe transforms the comforting flavors of a classic apple pie into a creamy, wholesome bowl of oatmeal. Juicy apples, warming spices, and a hint of sweetness simmer together overnight, filling your home with the nostalgic aroma of Christmas morning. The dish is finished with a drizzle of caramel and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a delightful crunch. Perfect for a stress-free festive breakfast or brunch, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults.
Imagine waking up to the inviting smell of cinnamon and apples, a comforting reminder of holiday traditions. The slow-cooked oats absorb all the flavors, resulting in a perfectly creamy and flavorful dish. Not only is this oatmeal delicious, but it also provides a nutritious start to your day, packed with fiber and warmth to keep you cozy through the chilly holiday season. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet morning with loved ones, this crockpot oatmeal is a must-have addition to your Christmas menu.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: The crockpot does all the work while you sleep, making it ideal for busy holiday mornings.
- Classic Flavors: Combines the nostalgic taste of apple pie with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal.
- Customizable: Easy to adjust sweetness, spices, and toppings to suit your preferences.
- Nutritious Yet Indulgent: Balances healthy ingredients with indulgent toppings for the perfect holiday treat.
- Aromatic Appeal: Fills your home with the comforting scent of apples and cinnamon, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Three Factors That Contribute To The Best Oatmeal
- Low and Slow Cooking: The key to creamy, well-cooked oatmeal. Cooking on low heat allows the oats to absorb the liquid and flavors gradually.
- Fresh Ingredients: Crisp apples, high-quality spices, and fresh oats make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Toppings Galore: Caramel drizzle, crushed graham crackers, or even a dollop of whipped cream take this oatmeal to the next level.
Ingredient Spotlight: Apples
The star ingredient, apples bring natural sweetness and texture to the dish. They’re rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, making the oatmeal both flavorful and nutritious. Opt for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to maintain their shape during the long cooking process. The tartness of these apples balances the sweetness of the spices and caramel, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Discover more about the incredible health benefits of apples in our detailed guide: 10 Health Benefits of Apples You Should Know.
Ingredient Notes
- Steel-Cut Oats: These oats hold their texture better than rolled oats during long cooking, resulting in a creamy yet hearty consistency.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the spices.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Essential for creating the warm, spiced flavor reminiscent of apple pie.
- Milk or Milk Alternative: Adds creaminess to the oatmeal; use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Butter: Optional but adds a rich flavor to the oatmeal.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk and skip the butter for a completely dairy-free version.
- Add-Ins: Mix in raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Sweetener Substitution: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a more complex spiced flavor.
- Topping Ideas: Swap caramel drizzle for maple syrup or top with granola for added crunch.
Pro Tip
Grease your crockpot lightly with butter or cooking spray before adding the ingredients. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier. Additionally, give the mixture a quick stir before serving to evenly distribute the flavors and ensure a smooth texture.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Festive Bowls: Serve the oatmeal in holiday-themed bowls for an extra festive touch.
- Garnish: Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts on top.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a dash of ground cinnamon for a dessert-like presentation.
- Fruit Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh fruit like sliced pears or pomegranate seeds for a colorful and refreshing contrast.
Pairing Suggestions
- Beverages: Pair with a hot cup of spiced chai, mulled cider, or your favorite holiday coffee for the ultimate Christmas breakfast.
- Sides: Complement the oatmeal with crispy bacon or sausage links for a sweet and savory combination.
- Pastries: Serve alongside cinnamon rolls or croissants for a complete holiday brunch spread.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Freezer: Portion leftover oatmeal into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Pour everything into the crockpot in the morning and cook on high for 3-4 hours.
My Favorite Tools To Make This Dish
- Crockpot with Timer: Allows you to set the cooking time and wake up to perfectly cooked oatmeal.
- Apple Corer and Slicer: Speeds up prep time and ensures evenly sized apple pieces.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching the crockpot.
- Ladle: Makes serving easy and mess-free.
- Festive Bowls: Enhance the presentation and make the dish feel even more special.
Easy and Cozy Apple Pie Oatmeal Recipe for Christmas Mornings
A creamy, spiced oatmeal with apples and caramel, perfect for holiday mornings.
Ingredients
Topping
Instructions
-
Grease Crockpot
Grease your crockpot with butter or oil to prevent sticking. -
Combine Ingredients
Add the steel-cut oats, diced apples, milk, water, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt to the crockpot. Stir well. -
Set to Cook
Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6 hours. -
Stir and Rest
Once cooked, stir the oatmeal to combine. Let it rest for 10 minutes to thicken slightly. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with your favorite toppings like caramel drizzle, crushed graham crackers, whipped cream or an extra sprinkle of ground cinnamon and nutmeg.
