Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal: 7 Delicious Mornings

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If mornings in your house are anything like mine, they’re a whirlwind of to-do lists, mismatched socks, and the eternal question: “What’s for breakfast?” That’s why this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal is a total game-changer. It’s warm, comforting, and basically cooks itself while you sleep. Yes, please!

Imagine waking up to the smell of cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup wafting through your home. It’s like your kitchen wrapped you in a fuzzy blanket and handed you a latte. This isn’t just breakfast—it’s a moment of peace before the day takes off.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal

This recipe is perfect for:

Busy mornings when time is nonexistent
Cozy fall weekends (or anytime you need a little fall-in-a-bowl comfort)
Feeding a hungry crowd without breaking a sweat

Using steel-cut oats gives this oatmeal a hearty, chewy texture that holds up beautifully in the slow cooker. Add in canned pumpkin, brown sugar, and pure maple syrup, and you’ve got a flavor combo that screams autumn (but honestly, we eat it year-round).

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups steel-cut oats
1 cup canned pumpkin
4 1/2 cups skim milk
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1/3 cup pecan chips

Optional toppings: more pure maple syrup, extra pecan chips, or even a dollop of whipped cream (no judgment here).

How to Make Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal

Prep your slow cooker – Coat the sides and bottom with nonstick cooking spray. This helps avoid the dreaded oatmeal crust.
Mix it all in – Add oats, pumpkin, milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, butter, and pecan chips. Give it a light stir to combine everything.
Set it and sleep – Cook on low heat for 7 hours overnight. That’s right—go to bed and let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
Serve and enjoy – Give it a good stir before serving. Top with more maple syrup and pecans if you’re feeling fancy (or just because it’s Monday).

Tips for a Delicious Bowl Every Time

Use steel-cut oats – Rolled oats will turn to mush. Steel-cut holds its texture and creates a creamy, rich oatmeal.
Don’t skip the spray – Trust me, scrubbing oatmeal off your slow cooker is not how you want to start the day.
Love crunch? – Add the pecans right before serving instead of cooking them overnight for extra texture.

From My Kitchen to Yours

I made this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal during one of those weeks when life felt like a three-ring circus. Between soccer practice, deadlines, and an overflowing laundry basket, having breakfast ready to go felt like a little win. It’s now a staple in our home—and one of my favorite ways to bring a bit of calm to the chaos.

Bowl of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal topped with pecans and cinnamon sticks — A comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal—topped with maple syrup, crunchy pecans, and cinnamon spice perfection.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal

Can I use almond or oat milk instead of skim milk?

Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite non-dairy milk. The result is still deliciously creamy.

Can I make this ahead and reheat?

Yes! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Totally. You can cut the brown sugar or maple syrup to suit your taste—or try a sugar substitute.

Make Your Mornings Sweeter

This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Maple Oatmeal isn’t just a breakfast—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re chasing toddlers or sipping coffee before the commute, it’s one less thing to worry about. Go ahead, let your slow cooker work its magic while you dream sweet, cinnamon-scented dreams. You—and your morning—deserve it.

So go ahead and prep it tonight—you’ll thank yourself tomorrow. From chilly fall mornings to busy back-to-school days, this oatmeal fits into your life like your favorite pair of cozy socks. And when your kitchen smells like a maple-kissed bakery in the morning, you’ll know you’ve found a new breakfast tradition.

More Cozy Favorites to Try Next

If you loved this breakfast treat, here are a few more slow cooker recipes that’ll make your mornings (and evenings) just as comforting:

For another sweet and easy breakfast option, try this delightful Crock-Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole—it’s perfect for weekend brunches and holiday mornings.
Need a savory option that cooks overnight just like oatmeal? Our hearty Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is just the ticket.
Craving a satisfying and flavorful dinner? This creamy Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is a family-favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Looking for more morning magic? The indulgent Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole is a surefire way to make any day feel like a celebration.

These links help you explore even more set-it-and-forget-it meals that bring warmth and ease to your table.