If you’re dreaming of a breakfast that feels part decadent treat and part heart-healthy whole grain, let me introduce you to Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal. This ultra-creamy, berry-studded oatmeal comes together almost magically overnight, filling your kitchen with a comforting aroma and delivering wholesome satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for busy mornings, leisurely brunches, or anytime you crave a hug-in-a-bowl, this recipe makes it absurdly easy to enjoy homemade oatmeal with a dreamy strawberries-and-cream twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of simple, nourishing ingredients that work together to create a bowl of pure breakfast bliss. Each choice brings its own flair—think richness, natural sweetness, and bursts of berry flavor.
- Steel-cut oats: Their hearty, chewy texture holds up beautifully in the slow cooker and creates a robust base for the oatmeal.
- Milk (or a mix of milk and water): Adds creaminess and body—dairy or a favorite non-dairy milk both work wonders.
- Fresh or frozen strawberries: Juicy, naturally sweet, and infuses the oats with lovely pink color—no need to thaw if using frozen!
- Maple syrup or honey: Naturally sweetens the oats, blending perfectly with strawberries for that classic berries-and-cream vibe.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds incredible aroma and rounds out the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a hint brings subtle warmth and depth.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the sweet, creamy, and fruity tones.
- Half-and-half or heavy cream: Stirred in at the end, it delivers that rich, velvety “cream” we’ve all swooned over.
- Additional strawberries and cream (for topping): (Optional, but highly recommended!) Adds a pretty finish and extra indulgence.
How to Make Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal
Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker
Start with a quick spray or rub of butter inside your slow cooker. This not only prevents sticking and scorched oats, but also makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, future-you will appreciate this little insurance policy!
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Add the steel-cut oats, your chosen milk (or milk and water), chopped strawberries, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt right into the crock pot. Give everything a good stir to make sure the flavors begin to mingle and the oats are evenly coated.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Creamy Perfection
Set the slow cooker to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. As the mixture cooks, the oats soak up flavor and the strawberries soften into jammy bursts of sweetness. The best part? You’ll be greeted by an irresistible scent when you wake up (or come home) that practically calls you to the kitchen.
Step 4: Finish with Cream
Just before serving, gently stir in half-and-half or heavy cream. This final touch transforms your Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal into something lusciously smooth and almost dessert-like. The texture becomes silky, and the flavor is simply swoon-worthy.
Step 5: Serve it Up
Spoon the oatmeal into cozy bowls, then pile on extra strawberries and an extra drizzle of cream, if the mood strikes. Each bite is creamy, berry-bright, and blissfully satisfying.
How to Serve Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal
Garnishes
Toppings are half the fun! Try a scattering of fresh sliced strawberries, a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of toasted nuts, or even a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. These little touches turn your oatmeal into something you’ll honestly crave.
Side Dishes
Pair your Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal with soft scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a refreshing fruit salad if you’re hosting brunch. Even a tall glass of cold orange juice or a steaming mug of coffee makes each spoonful feel special.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-wow breakfast, serve your oatmeal parfait-style in clear glasses or jars—alternate layers of creamy oats, fresh strawberries, and a dollop of yogurt or whipped cream. It’s just as fun to look at as it is to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 4 days, making breakfast effortless all week.
Freezing
Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal freezes beautifully. Portion it into individual freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags—just remember to leave a bit of room for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
To reheat, just pop a serving into the microwave or warm gently on the stovetop, stirring in a splash of milk or cream to bring back that signature silkiness. Top with fresh strawberries and a swirl of cream, and it’s just as delicious as the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of steel-cut oats?
While steel-cut oats give the best texture for slow-cooked oatmeal, you can use old-fashioned oats in a pinch. Just note that the cooking time will be much shorter—check after about 2 hours on low to prevent mushiness.
Is Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure your oats are certified gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free—a perfect breakfast for those with sensitivities.
Can I use plant-based milk and cream?
Absolutely! Almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk all work beautifully. For the creamy swirl at the end, use coconut cream or your favorite non-dairy creamer for an equally dreamy finish.
Can I prep this the night before?
That’s the magic of this dish! Toss everything into the crock pot before bed and wake up to a kitchen that smells like a strawberry patch. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it breakfast anyone can master.
What mix-ins can I add for more nutrition?
Try stirring in chia seeds, flaxseeds, or a handful of slivered almonds for extra texture and staying power. Toss them in during the last 30 minutes so they don’t get too soft or blend entirely into the oats.
Final Thoughts
If you adore a fuss-free, comforting breakfast with a touch of luxury, Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal is your ticket to mornings that feel extra special. Let your slow cooker do all the work, then dive into a bowl bursting with warmth, sweetness, and creamy charm—it’s simply too good not to share.
Print
Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delicious and creamy breakfast with this Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal recipe. Perfect for a hassle-free morning, the slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy a warm and comforting meal.
Ingredients
For the oatmeal:
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- 4 cups milk (or a mix of milk and water)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
For serving:
- ½ cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- Additional strawberries and cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oatmeal: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker. Add oats, milk, strawberries, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until creamy.
- Finish: Before serving, stir in half-and-half or cream. Spoon into bowls and top with extra strawberries and cream.
Notes
- For added texture and nutrition, consider stirring in chia seeds or flaxseeds during the last 30 minutes.
- If using frozen strawberries, no need to thaw—simply add them directly to the slow cooker.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *