Name: Cozy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal for Fall Mornings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 420 min
Total time: 430 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Steel-Cut Oats (Don’t substitute with rolled oats for best results.); 2.5 cups Water (You can use vegetable broth for added flavor.); 1.5 cups Unsweetened Almond Milk (Swap with any non-dairy milk if preferred.); 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (Fresh puree works too.); 3 tablespoons Maple Syrup (Feel free to replace with honey or agave syrup.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla extract is recommended for best taste.); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Use a mix of your favorite spices if desired.); 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon (Can be omitted for those with allergies.); 0.25 teaspoon Salt (Adjust as needed for sodium-restricted diets.); Chopped Pecans (Can be substituted with walnuts or omitted for nut allergies.); Maple Syrup and Almond Milk (Optional toppings for extra flavor and creaminess.)

As I stirred the pot, the warm scent of spices and pumpkin filled the air, immediately transporting me to those crisp autumn mornings I love. This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is more than just a recipe; it’s a cozy embrace in a bowl that captures the essence of fall. Ideal for those busy days, it requires just 10 minutes of hands-on time while the slow cooker works its magic overnight. Not only is this oatmeal completely vegan and gluten-free, but it’s also a delightful way to enjoy healthy comfort food that will leave you feeling satisfied. Imagine waking up to a creamy, pumpkin-filled breakfast ready for you to savor—what could be better? Ready to bring some autumn warmth to your mornings? Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe!

Why is this oatmeal a must-try?

Comforting and Cozy: Start your day with a warm bowl that embodies the flavors of fall. Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of hands-on work, you can set it and forget it overnight. Vegan and Dairy-Free: Perfect for everyone, including those with dietary needs. Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your choice of milk or toppings. Enjoy it alongside Chicken Pot Pie for a complete fall feast! Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will love this wholesome breakfast, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or weekend indulgence. Treat yourself to this seasonal delight and embrace the warmth of autumn mornings!

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Ingredients

Get ready for cozy flavors!

For the Base
Cooking Spray – Used to coat the slow cooker to prevent sticking.
1 cup Steel-Cut Oats – Provides texture and heartiness; don’t substitute with rolled oats for best results.
2 ½ cups Water – The essential liquid for cooking; you can use vegetable broth for added flavor.
1 ½ cups Unsweetened Almond Milk – Adds creaminess without dairy; swap with any non-dairy milk if preferred.
1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree – Infuses the oatmeal with signature pumpkin flavor; fresh puree works too.
For Sweetness and Spice
3 Tablespoons Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the dish; feel free to replace with honey or agave syrup.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; pure vanilla extract is recommended for best taste.
1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice – Offers a blend of rich holiday flavors; use a mix of your favorite spices if desired.
½ teaspoon Cinnamon – Complements the pumpkin pie spice; can be omitted for those with allergies.
¼ teaspoon Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; adjust as needed for sodium-restricted diets.
For Serving
Chopped Pecans – Adds a delightful nutty crunch; can be substituted with walnuts or omitted for nut allergies.
Maple Syrup and Almond Milk – Optional toppings for extra flavor and creaminess; highly recommended!

This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table this fall, creating a breakfast experience that feels just as cozy as your favorite autumn sweater.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by generously coating the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray, butter, or coconut oil to prevent sticking. This step is essential for ensuring your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal releases easily and stays creamy. Set your slow cooker aside while you mix the other ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In the slow cooker, add 1 cup of steel-cut oats, 2 ½ cups of water, and 1 ½ cups of unsweetened almond milk. Next, stir in 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, and the warm flavors of 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Set Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the mixture on the low setting for 6-8 hours. If you’re using a programmable slow cooker, setting it for 7 hours works perfectly to wake up to delightful pumpkin spice aromas. The oatmeal should become creamy and cooked through, with a texture that is thick but not dry.

Step 4: Stir and Serve
In the morning, gently stir the Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal to mix in any settled oats. The oatmeal should appear thick and luscious. Serve your hearty breakfast warm, topped with chopped pecans for added crunch, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a splash of almond milk, enhancing both flavor and creaminess.

Step 5: Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a sealed container. Refrigerate the oatmeal for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened.

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this oatmeal your own—it’s all about personal taste and flavor!

Coconut Milk: Swap almond milk for coconut milk for a tropical twist and added creaminess. The rich coconut flavor will take your oatmeal to an entirely new level!
Spice Boost: Enhance the spice profile by adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or fresh ginger. This addition will provide a delightful warmth and kick that perfectly complements the pumpkin.
Fruit Flavor: Toss in sliced bananas or diced apples for a fruity twist. Alongside oatmeal, the sweetness of fruit brightens every bite, making it a delicious breakfast bowl.
Nut-Free Option: To make this recipe nut-free, substitute almond milk with oat or soy milk. Your oatmeal will remain creamy and delicious without any nuts!
Sweetness Swap: For a different kind of sweetness, use honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup. This small change can create a delightful variation in flavor that you’ll love.
Chocolatey Delight: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate pumpkin pie oatmeal. This sweet variation is always a kid favorite!
Seasonal Fruit Topping: Elevate your serving by topping with fresh berries or poached pears. These add a refreshing element that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
Savory Twist: If you’re in the mood for something different, try making it savory by omitting maple syrup and pumpkin pie spice. Stir in sautéed onions and spinach for a delicious breakfast bowl.

If you love oatmeal but want to try different recipes, check out these delightful options: my creamy Banana Oatmeal Cookies make for a tasty snack, and a comforting Chicken Pot Pie for dinner is sure to please!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Choose Steel-Cut Oats: Ensure to use steel-cut oats for the perfect texture; other types can turn mushy and alter the cozy experience.
Adjust Sweetness Wisely: Taste before serving and adjust sweetness; some may prefer their oatmeal a touch sweeter with more maple syrup.
Stir Before Serving: Give the oatmeal a good stir before serving to ensure even creaminess, as settled oats can thicken in the slow cooker.
Customize Your Milk: Feel free to experiment with different non-dairy milks like coconut or oat for unique flavors; just make sure they’re unsweetened.
Top Creatively: Add variety with toppings like fresh fruit or yogurt; this transforms your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal into a delightful breakfast bowl.

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Fridge: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 7 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of almond milk if it thickens.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a cozy breakfast.
Reheating: When reheating, add a little almond milk to restore creaminess before warming, ensuring that your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is just as delightful as when freshly made.
Meal Prep: This oatmeal is great for meal prepping; make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for quick, nourishing breakfasts.

Make Ahead Options

For busy mornings, the Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is a fantastic meal prep option! You can combine all the ingredients—steel-cut oats, water, almond milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and spices—up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. In the morning, simply set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours and wake up to a warm, comforting breakfast. If you have leftovers, let them cool before transferring to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of almond milk to maintain creaminess. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this cozy breakfast without extra morning stress!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal?

Elevate your breakfast experience with these delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the cozy warmth of this creamy oatmeal.

Crispy Apple Slices: Their sweetness and crunch add a fresh contrast, making each bite exhilaratingly delightful. Pairing apples with your oatmeal brings more fall flavors to the table.
Maple-Glazed Pecans: Take your nut topping up a notch! These sweet and crunchy pecans create a beautiful harmony with pumpkin and spice, adding an irresistible crunch.
Cinnamon Baked Pears: A warm, gooey topping that adds elegance and a bit of tartness, enhancing the overall experience of your pumpkin pie oatmeal.
Coconut Yogurt: For a creamy and tangy twist, dollop some coconut yogurt on top. It adds richness, making each spoonful a luxurious experience.
Chai Tea: Sip on a fragrant cup of chai to complement the warm spices in your oatmeal, making for a cozy morning ritual that wraps you in warmth.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Add a touch of decadence with dark chocolate. The richness elevates the sweet taste of pumpkin and spices, turning breakfast into a treat!
Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh blueberries or raspberries introduces a lovely tartness that balances the sweet notes, creating an invigorating breakfast experience.
Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, add a scoop of vegan ice cream on top for a sumptuous, dessert-like breakfast that feels oh-so-special!

These delightful pairings will surely elevate your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal into a memorable morning feast, perfect for those cool autumn days!

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin puree?
When choosing pumpkin puree, look for deep, vibrant orange color and a smooth texture. Canned pumpkin puree is your best bet for consistent flavor; just ensure it’s 100% pumpkin without added sugar or spices. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use fresh pumpkin puree—just roast or steam your pumpkin and blend it until smooth.

How should I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal?
Store any leftover oatmeal in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Before reheating, give it a stir and add a splash of almond milk to loosen the texture. You can reheat it on the stovetop or microwave—just make sure to check the consistency before serving!

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal?
Absolutely! Pour your cooled oatmeal into airtight containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding almond milk if needed for creaminess.

What if my oatmeal turns out too thick?
If your oatmeal is too thick after cooking, don’t worry! This can be easily fixed. Simply add a splash of almond milk or water while stirring before serving to reach your desired consistency. Adjust as needed until it’s creamy and delicious—everyone has their own preference!

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, but always be cautious! For nut allergies, omit the pecans and replace almond milk with rice or oat milk. If you’re sensitive to pumpkin pie spice, you can create your blend or substitute with simple cinnamon or nutmeg depending on your taste.

How can I enhance the flavor profile of the oatmeal?
For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or fresh ginger when combining the ingredients. You could also top your oatmeal with fresh fruits like sliced bananas or sautéed apples, or even a dollop of coconut yogurt for added creaminess and taste.

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Recipe FAQs