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Slow Cooker Banana Nut Oatmeal

Liz DellaCroce Avatar

LIZ DELLA CROCE

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Steel cut oats cook overnight with bananas, walnuts and spices to create a healthy, make-ahead Slow Cooker Banana Nut Oatmeal.

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prep time5 minutes


If I had to offer one secret when it comes to reaching weight loss or healthy living goals it would be to start every day with a healthy breakfast. Of course, you’ve heard it 100 times but I also know that it isn’t so easy for everyone. People often tell me they don’t have time to make breakfast or they aren’t hungry first thing in the morning.

Listen up, friends. You must make eating breakfast a part of your daily routine. If you aren’t hungry in the morning, that likely means your metabolism isn’t running at it’s highest potential. Even if you just start with a piece of fruit or a slice of whole-grain toast, try to eat something within an hour of waking up.

Breakfast literally means “breaking the fast”. You haven’t eaten in close to 12 hours and your body needs a balanced meal to get going again! If you start eating breakfast, your body will begin to crave it when you wake up. Hunger is a sign of your metabolism functioning and the higher the metabolism, the more calories you burn throughout the day – even when you’re sitting on your bum playing on Pinterest.

And for those of you who claim not to have time in the morning, I’ve taken that excuse out of the pile! Take five minutes the night before to throw together this slow cooker banana nut oatmeal and you will wake up to delicious aromas of bananas, walnuts and spices. Since the slow cooker will keep it warm, everyone can help themselves in the morning regardless of their schedule. Easy as pie…er…oats.

If slow cooker banana nut oatmeal isn’t for you try these other fabulous recipes I’ve created.

Your spoon is waiting.

Have you tried my


Slow Cooker Banana Nut Oatmeal?

Leave a 🌟 star rating and let us know how you liked it in the 📝 comments and share it on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest.

We love hearing from you! This helps us continue to provide free, high-quality recipes.

Slow Cooker Banana Nut Oatmeal

Liz Della Croce
4.16 stars average
Steel cut oats cook overnight with bananas, walnuts and spices to create a healthy, make-ahead breakfast that will be waiting for you in the morning.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 5 minutes
CourseBreakfast
Serves4

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 cup steel cut oats
  • 1 ripe banana mashed
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts
  • 2 cups milk any kind
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons flax seed meal
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • slices banana walnuts or brown sugar – optional garnish

Video

Instructions
 

  1. Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and stir until well combined.
  2. Cook overnight on Low for 8 hours.
  3. In the morning, stir oatmeal with a fork to loosen the steel cut oats and make sure everything is fully incorporated.
  4. Serve warm with banana slices, chopped walnuts or a pinch of brown sugar if you wish.

Liz’s Notes

For easier clean-up and to avoid the slight “crusty” residue inside the slow cooker, place all ingredients in a glass bowl that fits into the slow cooker then add enough water to fill the lower half of the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 290kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 0.7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.3g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 366mg | Fiber: 6.6g | Sugar: 3.9g

Have you tried my


Slow Cooker Banana Nut Oatmeal?

Leave a 🌟 star rating and let us know how you liked it in the 📝 comments and share it on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest.

We love hearing from you! This helps us continue to provide free, high-quality recipes.


4.16 from 80 votes (49 ratings without comment)

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212 responses to “Slow Cooker Banana Nut Oatmeal”

  1. Harper Avatar
    Harper

    Pot in pot method must be required and not a suggestion or something because my recipe came out absolutely awful. Was soupy and yet half burnt

  2. Theresa Avatar
    Theresa

    I doubled the recipe, low for 8 hours and it turned out extremely dense,cake like and almost burnt. I was able to salvage enough for one bowl. Not sure what happened… Any idea? I gave it four stars because the flavor was good, if it had turned out as oatmeal should, it would have been amazing.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Theresa, I am so sorry. It appears “2 cups water” was accidentally removed from the recipe. I have added it back. I truly apologize. Please try it again!!! <3

  3. Christine Avatar
    Christine

    In the video you don’t add the water. In the recipe you call for 2 cups of water!? Mine came out like soup so I don’t understand why anyone else isn’t questioning this too!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Christine! So sorry for the confusion there. There should be 4 cups liquid for every 1 cup steel cut oats.

      1. Joanna Avatar
        Joanna

        After reading the comments I’m confused about the 2 cups of water. Do I need to add it or not?

        I already put everything into the crockpot including the 2 cups of water- I hope it’s right!

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Yes that’s correct! Enjoy!! :)

  4. Christine Avatar
    Christine

    Mine came out like soup. How can one cup of oats with 4 cups of liquid come out right? I didn’t have steel cut oats so I used my gluten free oats.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Christine – This recipe is for steel cut oats which require double the liquid as old fashioned.

  5. poolhunt.com Avatar
    poolhunt.com

    how you made this type of recipe actually i want make this so this article is very helpful for me

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I hope you love it!

  6. Lori Avatar
    Lori

    Just made this and it was fantastic!! So happy with the results. Doesn’t even need brown sugar for me!! I wanted to eat the whole pot!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so happy you enjoyed it!!

  7. Beks Avatar
    Beks

    Always looking for a great overnight oats recipe; the banana bread flavor sounds amazing; looking forward to making it :)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So happy to hear!!

  8. Sophie Anderson Avatar
    Sophie Anderson

    Just made this and it was fantastic!! So happy with the results.I wanted to eat the whole pot!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      That makes me so happy!

  9. Malissa Avatar
    Malissa

    You’re welcome! Had leftovers this morning and they heated up with a bit of milk perfectly. I used just raisins this time and it was just as tasty. Will definitely be making this one again! Thanks!

  10. Whits@amusebouche Avatar
    Whits@amusebouche

    Thanks for the suggestion, that’s just what I did this morning and my son and I loved it!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so glad!

      1. Larry L Adams Avatar
        Larry L Adams

        I’ve attempted overnight oats and always end up with delicious oatmeal on top, but the bottom and sides end up a burnt mess. Could you explain, again, how to use a bowl to negate this problem.

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          You can try adding a couple inches of water to bottom and then placing the oats + other ingredients for the oatmeal in a glass bowl on top of the liquid!

  11. Erin Avatar
    Erin

    3rd night in a row preparing ingredients for banana walnut oatmeal. Put everything in VitaClay pot. Mix Start Sleep Enjoy. Thanks so much for this fab recipe

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh perfect!! :)

  12. Mike Avatar
    Mike

    I normally don’t really like bananas, but in this they were great.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you enjoyed!

  13. Richard Tunner Avatar
    Richard Tunner

    Thank you for the recipe. I made it this morning for my kids. It was nice to just throw everything in and then get ready for work. I hope to try more recipes like this one.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      OH PERFECT!!! How did they like it?

  14. Susan Dubose Avatar
    Susan Dubose

    This looks like such a delicious, yet healthy breakfast. We enjoy oatmeal, but don’t often have time to make it in the mornings. I love that it is cooked in a slow cooker.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes so easy!

  15. Anthony Allen Avatar
    Anthony Allen

    In the morning everything is ready to go. Well, everything except for a fresh fruit garnish. This banana nut steel-cut oatmeal is a great option to start.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So glad you like it!

  16. Rimmy Avatar
    Rimmy

    This sounds delicious! I LOVE oatmeal and can’t wait to try it. I really like to make a crockpot egg casserole…

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I hope you love it!

  17. Rimmy Avatar
    Rimmy

    This is by far the coziest breakfast!!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So easy too!

  18. kathleen Avatar
    kathleen

    Never thought breakfast means ‘breaking the fast’. That got me smiling. I love bananas and will use almond milk. Yum! Thanks for sharing.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      hahah :) Enjoy!

  19. Kara Mathys @Wellnessgrit Avatar
    Kara Mathys @Wellnessgrit

    Oh my! This banana nut oatmeal was delicious and so easy to make! Will have to try this for my family. Thanks so much!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so happy you loved it!!!

  20. Sumera Avatar
    Sumera

    Really wanted this to work. I used the. Vitaclay slow cooker so took less time (2 hours). However a lot stuck to bottom and was burned. The cinnamon taste was overwhelming. Really wanted to like this. But unfortunately the taste wasn’t good. There was also an element of burned taste due to the bottom part burning.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Sumera, I’m so sorry to hear this didn’t work for you! I’ve never used one of those slow cookers but I have heard some people having success placing the oats in a bowl over about 2 inches of water. Either way my apologies that it didn’t work – we make this regularly and love it but we use a standard Crock pot.

      1. Sumera Avatar
        Sumera

        Thanks for your response.

        1. Kathy Avatar
          Kathy

          I put my oatmeal mixture in a glass bowl the fits inside the crockpot and I fill the crockpot halfway with water. It keeps it from burning and sticking.

          1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
            Liz DellaCroce

            So glad to hear!

  21. Joni Avatar
    Joni

    I don’t have a glass container that I could put in the slower cooker. Should I spray the slow cooker with cooking spray?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes that’s a great option!

  22. Kim Avatar
    Kim

    Made this just now. Tastes delicious! Added in a little extra banana and 1 tablespoon of chia seeds. I have made a lot of steel cut oats in my slow cooker and knew they would be done in just two hours on low. I let mine cool and then I portioned them out (8 servings) and I plop the portions onto a cookie sheet lined with foil and sprayed with non-stick spray. They are in the freeze now. I’ll put them in a big zip close plastic bag when they are frozen. Awesome recipe. Thanks.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Ahh love the changes you made!

  23. Gabi Avatar
    Gabi

    I am a huge fan of all of your recipes. This one was great too. I think using almond milk didn’t get as nice a consistency, but it tasted lovely.

    For all your recipes it would be really helpful to have the amount of cups or grams equivalent to one serving. It really helps with portion control and adapting recipes to Weight Watchers or similar.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Gabi – I’m so glad you enjoyed it!! I apologize for the serving size. I am working to incorporate it for all my recipes in the “Notes” section. Unfortunately my recipe plugin program doesn’t support a serving size in cups so I’m trying to work around that. If there are any specific recipes you want specific amounts for just let me know.

      1. Cait Avatar
        Cait

        I made this lastnight. It didn’t have much of a banana flavor, but taste more like cinnamon. The texture was weird, too. This isn’t a favorite in our house.

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Hi Cait – Shoot I’m sorry this didn’t work out for you. That’s interesting – were your bananas ripe?

  24. La'Shawn Avatar
    La’Shawn

    I only had half and half. I used one and a half cups of half and half and the other two and a half cups of water to make the four cups of liquid. Since I used half and half will this curdle?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Nope should be delicious!!

  25. Lena Avatar
    Lena

    Looks like a time saver for those early mornings. I normally soak the oats with acv and rye overnight to neutralize some of the phytic acid. It also decreases the cooking time. Could I still do that with this recipe? Would I decrease the cook time?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m not sure Lena as I’ve never done that before – so sorry!

  26. Mary Harper Avatar
    Mary Harper

    Hi was just wondering if anyone knew the sun value of this recipe on slimming world or if there was a way of making it slimming world friendly?

  27. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    My daughter found this recipe a few months back and I made it for the first time when the kids had state testing. I wanted to make sure they had a great warm filling breakfast. They asked for it all that week and the last month have been making it at least once a week. I have never liked oatmeal but I gave this a try for breakfast and really enjoyed it. It is just as good reheated the next morning too. I use Chia seeds in a lot of things so this is what I use instead of flax.
    Thank you for a wonderful recipe

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh Stephanie I’m so happy to hear this!!! We make this all the time in the winter but you’ve inspired me to make it again soon! It’s one of our favorites!!

  28. Shannon Avatar
    Shannon

    I’m not sure what I did wrong but when I made this, the oats themselves turned out goopy and gross-looking and the mashed banana had browned and seemed like it was burned. I had my crock pot on low for 8 hours. Only things I did differently was I used classic oats instead of steel cut because that’s all I had, and didn’t have any flax seed to include. I love the idea of this but wish it had worked better. Any advice on how to fix it? Thanks!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Shannon – I’m afraid this recipe doesn’t work for old fashioned oats. You’ll need to use steel cut oats as instructed in the recipe in order to get the correct consistency. Enjoy!

    2. Autumn Avatar
      Autumn

      I used Steel cut oats and had the same problem. The banana browned and the milk curdled.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Does your slow cooker tend to run hot? Maybe next time try more water – so sorry to hear that! We make it all the time and love it!

      2. Hayley Avatar
        Hayley

        Same issue here. I even generously buttered my slow cooker and it still stuck to the sides and was browned and burned in a lot of places. Disappointing. I wonder if it would work if cooked for 5-6 hours instead of 8?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Shoot that’s too bad!! I will say I have four slow cookers and some are stronger than others. Try it next time for four hours. WORSE case you can always microwave a bit in the morning. Start with four and go up from there. :)

  29. Beth Avatar
    Beth

    Does anyone know about soaking or slow cooking with Cream of Wheat? one of my daughters and myself prefer Bobs Red Mill Creamy Wheat/Creamy Rice farina 1/2 each. We, also, like soaking oatmeal (rest of the family) overnight and cooking to get more nutrition out of it. But, can’t see what the consistency would be for cream of wheat…just wanting to know if someone else has tried it before I possibly throw some out…:)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oooooh cream of wheat is a great idea! Let me know what you find out!

  30. Sally Avatar
    Sally

    Just discovered this recipe over the weekend…it turned out amazing! 21 Day Fixer here and it works great for me. Thank you for sharing!!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so glad you enjoyed it!!!! Let me know what other recipes you try Sally!

  31. Jeffrey Avatar
    Jeffrey

    Looks great, I like my banana oatmeal with cardamom…Give it a try!

  32. Jody G. Avatar
    Jody G.

    Delicious and easy once I picked out all of the burnt walnuts…I must have kept it on for too long overnight. But, my family loved it. I won’t add nuts until after cooked next time I make it!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      What?? Burnt walnuts?? Oh no!! Did you add enough liquid?

  33. Brittany Avatar
    Brittany

    Hey there! I just made this tonight and was wondering if I should have taken it out sooner. At about 6-7 hrs the consistency was a bit soupy. Like it wasn’t oatmeal anymore. I followed the ingredients and directions to a T and put it on 8 hours low. What could have caused this?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Brittany – Still soupy?? Did you use steel cut oats or old fashioned? It should definitely not be soup! Let me know!

  34. Erin Avatar
    Erin

    Pinterest fail! Followed the directions exactly and it burnt and was sticky. Didn’t taste very good either :(

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh no Erin!!! We make this all the time and love it and so do many of my readers, friends and family!! I’d love to help you make the recipe a success because truly this is a go-to for us. Did you make any modifications or substitutions to the recipe at all? Let me know. Either way I’m so bummed it didn’t work out – nothing worse than a “pinterest fail” haha. :)

  35. Amanda Avatar
    Amanda

    Can I use rolled oats? Would it change the cooking time or the amount of liquid?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You could use them but I would use a two one ratio of liquid – so one cup oats and two cups liquid!

  36. Kim Avatar
    Kim

    This sounds fabulous! But if I’m doing the 21 day fix program what would this equal out for the colored containers?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Kim – I’m not sure what you’re referring to sorry!

  37. Linda D. Avatar
    Linda D.

    Could I use flax seed instead of the flax seed meal?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes absolutely! Just know that seeds are not absorbed into the blood stream so you don’t get the health benefits from them which is why I use meal. :)

      1. June Avatar
        June

        You can always grind the seeds to make a meal texture. I’ve done that and it works perfect. June

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Great tip!

  38. Briana Avatar
    Briana

    I was wondering if the flavor or texture would be seriously compromised if I used more water in place of the milk?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      No not at all!

  39. Caitlin Avatar
    Caitlin

    For the cook time… instead of 8 hrs on low, could I do 4 hrs on high? Thanks!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I would actually do 4 hours on low. Should be plenty!

  40. Krista Avatar
    Krista

    I am SO trying this this weekend. One question, what size of crockpot did you use?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Mine is 5 quart! I hope you love it!

  41. Alysonne Hatfield Avatar
    Alysonne Hatfield

    I tried this last night and really enjoyed it for breakfast today. I topped with a little bit of brown sugar only, but I’ll add some banana tomorrow. Next time, I’ll follow the advice about using a smaller glass bowl in the crockpot and a water bath, or maybe just use a shorter cooking time. My slow cooker is a 7 quart, and it’s just too big for this recipe as is – it dried out a little! But it was still a great way to have a hot breakfast on a weekday with minimal effort.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m going to revise the recipe to make that more clear!! Thanks Alysonne!

  42. Ti Avatar
    Ti

    Can’t wait to try this!
    How long will this keep in the fridge?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Up to 5 days although the bananas may get a bit browned. You can always top with freshly sliced ones in the morning. :)

  43. brooke Avatar
    brooke

    If I double this recipe to feed about 8-10 would I need to cook it longer?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Nope same cook time! Enjoy!

  44. Kristine Avatar
    Kristine

    Can this be over cooked?? I just tried it last night and the oats are burnt on top and totally overcooked. It was probably in the crock pot for about ~9 hours. Do you have to be very careful about taking it out at 8 hours?

    Thank you!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Kristine,

      Does your crock pot automatically switch to Warm after 8 hours? Did you add the same amount of liquid? Also, what types of oats did you use? We make this often and LOVE it – especially this time of year – so I want to make it a success for you too!

      1. Kristine Avatar
        Kristine

        Ah, somehow I skipped over the water!!! lol! I will definitely be trying this again! :) :)

  45. Shelley Avatar
    Shelley

    WOW! I made a double batch of these last night and oh-my-goodness! We have never tried steel cut oats before and now I ask, “Where have they been all my life?” I just finished my first delightful bowl of these, topped with a sprinkle of sugar and drizzle of half-n-half and they really hit the spot on this chilly morning! Now I have lots of leftovers to portion out to bring to work for breakfast. I did reduce the liquid to 3 cups per cup of oats and cooked for 6 hours…the texture is perfect…chewy-good! Thanks for this wonderful recipe!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Shelley you just made my day!!!! I’m SO glad you enjoyed this!! please let me know if you try any other recipes!!

  46. Krista Avatar
    Krista

    This may be a weird question, but do you think this recipe would work with barley? I always buy old fashioned oats, and don’t have any steel cut on hand, but I have not had as much luck with the old fashioned in my crock pot. They seem to get way too mushy. I’m wondering if barley would hold up a little better?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes it would be great with barley!! I’ve done it with farro and spelt too. And I also have a breakfast barley recipe you might like: https://thelemonbowl.com/barley-breakfast-bowl-with-fruit-nuts/ Let me know how it turns out!

  47. Megan {Country Cleaver} Avatar
    Megan {Country Cleaver}

    It’s 27 here today and this stopped me in my tracks – I need this ASAP to warm up!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh my goodness it was so cold here today too!!!! Warm up sweet friend!

  48. Crystal Avatar
    Crystal

    Just saw this over at cleanmama.net and can’t wait to try it! Like it’s happening in the next 18 hours. ;)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh awesome!! I hope you like it Crystal!

  49. She Rocks Fitness Avatar
    She Rocks Fitness

    Woke up early and realized I was out of quick oats and had all the other ingredients, so I just threw it into the slow cooker. Used chia seeds instead of flax. Going to have this before a super long run tomorrow…Thanks for sharing!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so glad!! Thanks so much for sharing!

  50. Kelley Avatar
    Kelley

    This looks absolutely incredible! Can you substitute the walnuts for almonds? Thank you!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Absolutely!!! Enjoy!

  51. Danielle Dron Avatar
    Danielle Dron

    Does this work well reheated? I’m the only one that eats oatmeal in my house. I don’t want it to go to waste.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes it’s great reheated! You may need to add a little milk or water but otherwise it’s delish!

  52. Jen Avatar
    Jen

    This looks AMAZING! I really, REALLY want to like oatmeal and I feel like this is my last ditch effort. Got everything and will be making tonight :)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Let me know what you think!!! A little brown sugar and a good pinch of salt is key. :)

  53. Melissa @ My Recent Favorite books Avatar
    Melissa @ My Recent Favorite books

    Im new to your blog, – this recipe sounds amazing!
    Im a big breakfast person!

    Pinning!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Thank you so much Melissa! Enjoy!

  54. Scott Silverman Avatar
    Scott Silverman

    Looks great, is there an alternative to a slow cooker? can it be made, put in fridge overnight and heated in morning??

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      YES absolutely!! Just cook it on the stovetop for 20 minutes. Also, my blog has countless recipes for oatmeal that doesn’t involve a slow cooker! Let me know if you try some!

  55. Marisa K Avatar
    Marisa K

    I love oats in the morning! Are steel cut oats the same as regular oats? Do you have to steal them for them to be steel cut :p

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Ha!! Rolled oats are simply steel cut oats that have been rolled flat. :)

  56. Erin | The Emerging Foodie Avatar
    Erin | The Emerging Foodie

    Yum! Breakfast is one of my favorites and oatmeal is my absolutely favorite breakfast food. Banana nut AND the slow cooker? Brilliant!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Thanks Erin – I hope you enjoy it!!

  57. Barbara Avatar
    Barbara

    I tried this today and it was amazing! I have been looking for a more filling breakfast option and this is definitely a win. I have never made my own oatmeal and was a little nervous about using flax seed (never used that either). I added 1 more banana (we love bananas), 1tbs of brown sugar to the recipe. I will be making it again.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so glad you enjoyed it Barbara! Let me know if you try anything else!!

  58. Erin @ Texanerin Baking Avatar
    Erin @ Texanerin Baking

    I wish I liked oatmeal. :( This looks great! And that thing about not having time for breakfast is so lame. Get up 5 minutes earlier! Just sayin’… ;)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      My good friend hates oatmeal too and always says she wishes she liked it!!

  59. Samantha Avatar
    Samantha

    i really can’t figure out why I haven’t tried a slow cooker overnight oatmeal recipe yet. It’s kind of ridiculous that I’ve waited so long!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You and me both!!! Let me know what you think!

  60. susan Avatar
    susan

    Here’s one for rolled oats that is good too!
    2c. milk, 1 c. old fashioned oats, 1 c. peeled and diced apple, 1/2 c. raisins, 1/2 c. chopped walnuts, 1/4 c. packed brown sugar (or maple syrup), 1/4 t. salt, 1/2 t. cinnamon. cover and cook overnight on low
    I mix up the fruit and the options are endless!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Thank you so much for this Susan!!! I hadn’t done it yet with rolled oats – appreciate this!

  61. Carol Avatar
    Carol

    I makes slow cooker oatmeal all the time and have several variations of flavors (Apple & cinnamon, pumpkin spice etc). I have found cleanup is so much easier if you put all ingredients in a glass bowl that fits into the slow cooker, then add water to the cooker to cover the lower half of the bowl. Cover the cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hrs. The steam action keeps everything nicely creamy and no “crusty” residue on the inside of the slow cooker!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      That is such an incredible tip!! I’m going to try it!! Thank you!

    2. Barbara Avatar
      Barbara

      This was really helpful. I wondered about that this morning when I had crusty residue in my crockpot.

  62. Wendy | Around My Family Table Avatar
    Wendy | Around My Family Table

    I love waking up to aromatic scents from a slow cooker- I imagine those big cartoon waft lines lifting me out of bed!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      YES!! hahahaha I love waking up to delicious smells, too. :)

  63. Kerry Avatar
    Kerry

    This sounds great! Definitely want to try it. What size crockpot is recommended? I only have a 6 quart, i’m thinking I need to invest in a smaller one.

  64. Nutmeg Nanny Avatar
    Nutmeg Nanny

    Oh wow, this would fill me right up :) so satisfying!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Let me know if you try it friend!

  65. Jessica @ A Kitchen Addiction Avatar
    Jessica @ A Kitchen Addiction

    Love the idea of making steel cut oats in the crock pot! So convenient!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Me too!! I’m all for time savers these days. :)

  66. Haley @ The Girly Girl Cooks Avatar
    Haley @ The Girly Girl Cooks

    I need to send this info to my husband because he doesn’t believe me when I tell him the importance of breakfast. He thinks a cup of coffee is all he needs, when in fact it’s not doing him any good. Your slow cooker oatmeal looks fabulous!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      It’s funny – I can relate! My husband never used to eat breakfast but once he started he lost 10 pounds!!

  67. Tieghan Avatar
    Tieghan

    THis is the perfect breakfast for this cold, cold weather!! Warm and cozy, but still so healthy!! Yes!

    Sounds so good, Liz!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Exactly!! I’m all about warm and cozy :)

  68. Lisa @ Garnish with Lemon Avatar
    Lisa @ Garnish with Lemon

    I love steel cut oats and anything in the slow cooker! Pinned. YUM!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Me too!! Thank you for pinning Lisa!

  69. Charlotte Moore Avatar
    Charlotte Moore

    I think I will try this with peaches. I love bananas but sometimes they give my husband indigestion. Since it is just the two of us I think peaches would reheat the next day a little better. YUM!!!!

    1. June Avatar
      June

      I like my oatmeal with chopped apples, walnuts, raisins, plenty of cinnamon and fresh sorghum as the sweetener., fresh pressed Apple cider or Apple juice for my liquid. I’m pleased to see the show cooker version. I have been partially cooking oatmeal the night before. I turn the heat off and it continues to cook, but I have to reheat it in the morning. This is wonderful and so much more versatile. It looks like you can use just about any fruit you enjoy. Thank you. Will be doing this tonight.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        I hope you love it June!!

  70. Oksana Avatar
    Oksana

    Any ideas on a substitute for bananas? I’m allergic to bananas but really like this idea.

    1. June Avatar
      June

      Lisa, check out my version using Apple’s since your husband has issues with bananas. If he likes Apple crisp, he may like this.

      Osama, you may like this too since you are allergic to bananas.
      Good luck, gals. June

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Great idea!!

  71. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    I am a self-proclaimed breakfast addict. Can’t get out of bed without it! I love the sound of this waiting for me in the AM.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So am I!! I can’t really understand skipping it – hahah. :)

  72. Leah Avatar
    Leah

    This looks wonderful…I’m just wondering if it can be made with old fashioned oats instead of steel cut oats. (Only because I really want to try it but don’t have any on hand!).

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Rolled oats would most certainly work! The texture won’t quite be as chewy as steel cut but if you’re ok with a softer texture then go for it! Also you may wish to cut down on he liquids as they won’t require as much. Let me know how it comes out!!

      1. Leah Avatar
        Leah

        Thanks, Liz, I just got some steel cut oats and I’m going to try it tonight. I’m glad I found your site, thanks for some great ideas!

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Let me know how it turns out!!

          1. Leah Avatar
            Leah

            It was delicious! I used toasted pecans instead of walnuts (just because I don’t like walnuts) and I used a water-bath in the slow cooker. It’s a larger slow-cooker and I didn’t want it to brown too much around the edges. It worked beautifully. Thanks!

          2. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
            Liz DellaCroce

            I can’t wait to try the water bath!!

      2. Kit Avatar
        Kit

        Hi Liz
        I tried it with rolled oats as I weren’t able to get the steel cut ones.
        It didn’t look quite the same…..
        The oats disappeared into the mix completely.. it was more paste-like texture.
        Taste is still good.. love bananas and walnut with cinnamon and nutmeg…..
        Added blue berries as topping.
        Feels really good for the body!
        Thank you!

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Hi Kit – Yea this recipe is designed for steel cut but I’m glad it was good!

  73. Brittany Avatar
    Brittany

    I love making steel-cut oats in my slow-cooker and this banana nut version looks and sounds delicious!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I just can’t do bananas without walnuts – they are bff’s!!

  74. fabiola@notjustbaked Avatar
    fabiola@notjustbaked

    I love this recipe! So easy to make and will fit perfectly into a cleanse I am doing next week for 3 weeks! I made something like this years ago and totally forgot how easy and delicious it can be, thanks!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh good luck with the cleanse!! I hope you enjoy!

  75. Katrina @ In Katrina's Kitchen Avatar
    Katrina @ In Katrina’s Kitchen

    Soooooooooo as it turns out- I don’t eat cupcakes for breakfast (shhhhh!!). This looks fab!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      LOL Katrina!!!!!!!! Oh you are so funny. xoxo

  76. Jenny Flake Avatar
    Jenny Flake

    I’m breaking out my slow cooker for this fabulous looking oatmeal! Happy New Year! xoxo

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I hope you and the boys like it Jenny!! Happy New Year to you as well – I hope our paths cross again in 2014! xo

  77. julia Avatar
    julia

    Love Slow Cooker Oatmeal–the banana nut combo is perfect!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      A banana without a walnut is just sad!

  78. Nicki Avatar
    Nicki

    If I don’t have the flax meal, will that change the texture or anything?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      No not at all – it’s just a way of boosting up the nutrition. Chia would be great or wheat germ or just skip!

  79. Amanda @ Once Upon a Recipe Avatar
    Amanda @ Once Upon a Recipe

    I was just thinking about how I should start using my slow cooker to make steel cut oats, since I just don’t have time for it in the morning before work. This recipe sounds delicious! I’m totally putting this together tonight so I can enjoy it tomorrow morning!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes!! I love using it for steel cut last since they normally take so long to cook. :)

  80. Megan / Country Cleaver Avatar
    Megan / Country Cleaver

    I swear by breakfast! I never understood the people who pass up breakfast, it’s the most versatile of meals! I will definitely be making this – VERY soon!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Dude. I look forward to breakfast from the minute I finish dinner – lol!!

  81. EA-The Spicy RD Avatar
    EA-The Spicy RD

    I’ve been having a series of oatmeal cravings lately (just has some for breakfast today :-) and this looks delicious! Love the idea of tossing everything in the slow cooker the night before for a yummy breakfast the next day! Trying this ASAP!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You and me both!! Especially with this cold weather we are having right now.

  82. Brenda @ a farmgirl's dabbles Avatar
    Brenda @ a farmgirl’s dabbles

    This looks like it could be breakfast this week…love steel cut oats and bananas for breakfast!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Let me know if you try it Brenda!! You can’t beat it this time of year. Hope you’re staying warm!

  83. Camille @ Challenge Mantra Avatar
    Camille @ Challenge Mantra

    haha. I learned/remembered that tip about breakfast yesterday! This looks yummy, and I love a good crock pot recipe!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes it’s such a great tip!! And I’m all for anything that encourages eating. ;)

  84. Laura @ Lauras Baking Talent Avatar
    Laura @ Lauras Baking Talent

    Love the idea of making this the night before and having it all ready for me on a work day.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes it’s perfect for that!!

  85. Erin | The Law Students Wife Avatar
    Erin | The Law Students Wife

    Ah, I’ve been waiting for this recipe since I saw it on instagram! I’m an oatmeal fiend, and love the idea of it being ready and waiting for me when I get up. Almost like having a private chef :)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Sorry it took me so long!! Enjoy!! :)

  86. Claire Gallam Avatar
    Claire Gallam

    I would so much rather have this than the pathetic 150 calorie breakfast sandwich I just ate.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      LOL I know – I had a 150 calorie smoothie this morning and was so cold – haha.

  87. Cathy Pollak ~ Noble Pig Avatar
    Cathy Pollak ~ Noble Pig

    This is my kind of breakfast, I love oatmeal and I can’t imagine not being hungry in the morning!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I can’t either Cathy – lol!!!!

  88. Jen @ My Kitchen Addiction Avatar
    Jen @ My Kitchen Addiction

    This looks fabulous, Liz… I can’t wait to give it a try! I always crave a warm breakfast this time of year, so this is a great one to have ready when we wake up. I bet Maddie would even love to eat it, so that’s a win-win!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I bet she would!! Asher couldn’t stop eating this!! Let me know if she tries it!! :)

  89. Rachel Cooks Avatar
    Rachel Cooks

    I <3 slow cooker oatmeal.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You and me both sista! I see myself making this more and more when the kids go to school too. xo

  90. Daniele Avatar
    Daniele

    This is a great post Liz! Thanks so much. I can’t wait to make it!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I hope you enjoy it Daniele!

  91. Taylor @ Food Faith Fitness Avatar
    Taylor @ Food Faith Fitness

    I eat oatmeal every morning! But I have never had steel cut oatmeal in a crockpot! Bananas and walnuts are such a super yum combo…I need to try this! Thanks for a way to spice up the usual oatmeal!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I love it because my husband wakes up at 5AM and we don’t wake until 7AM. It’s ready whenever you wake!

  92. Ashley - baker by nature Avatar
    Ashley – baker by nature

    We just bought a giant bunch of bananas last night, so this is totally happening! We need a warm breakfast today ;)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh perfect!!! The riper the bananas get the better the oats!

      1. Jessica Avatar
        Jessica

        I wonder if I can make a large batch and freeze individual portions?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          You know what, I’ve never frozen oatmeal before so I’m not positive!! I’m so sorry, I just don’t want to promise something I’ve never tried.

          1. Judith Avatar
            Judith

            I’ve frozen steel cut oats (though not with fresh fruit – just dried, like chopped figs) and they are perfectly fine when you microwave them. I top them with some cottage cheese and fresh fruit and the breakfast is always delish (and pretty healthy to boot ;)

          2. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
            Liz DellaCroce

            Oh what a smart idea Judith!

          3. Anna Avatar
            Anna

            I do it all the time! 1 cup of oats, 3 minutes to re-heat from frozen.
            Thanks for the great recipe.

          4. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
            Liz DellaCroce

            Ooo I love your formula!