Overnight Oatmeal
This recipe offers a convenient method for preparing steel-cut oatmeal overnight in a slow cooker, resulting in a hearty and wholesome breakfast. By combining oats, dried fruits, and water, then cooking on low heat, you wake up to a warm, ready-to-eat meal perfect for busy mornings. A touch of half-and-half is stirred in at the end for richness.
Equipment
- 1 Slow Cooker Essential for overnight cooking
- 1 Measuring Cups For accurate ingredient portions
- 1 Ladle For stirring and serving
- 4 Serving bowls For individual portions
Ingredients
Main
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup dried figs
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup half-and-half
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and set to low heat. Cover and let cook for 8 to 9 hours.
- Stir and remove to serving bowls. This method works best if started before you go to bed. This way your oatmeal will be finished by morning.
Notes
This overnight oatmeal method is fantastic for meal prep, ensuring a hot, wholesome breakfast with minimal morning effort. The key to steel-cut oats is their chewy texture, which benefits greatly from slow, long cooking. Adjust the liquid ratio slightly if you prefer a thicker or thinner consistency. For enhanced flavor, consider toasting the steel-cut oats briefly in a dry pan before adding them to the slow cooker to bring out their nutty aroma. You can also infuse more flavor by adding a cinnamon stick, a few cardamom pods, or a splash of vanilla extract along with the other ingredients. While half-and-half adds richness, feel free to use milk or a non-dairy alternative. Serve with fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup for added complexity and garnish.