Slow Cooker Apple Pie Overnight Oats (Vegan + Gluten-Free)

Cozy, hands-off breakfast that tastes like dessert but fuels your whole morning.

There’s nothing better than waking up to a hot breakfast that’s already ready for you. These Slow Cooker Apple Pie Overnight Oats are exactly that—warm, spiced, and naturally sweet from apples and applesauce. It’s the perfect cozy breakfast for busy mornings, and since the slow cooker does all the work while you sleep, there’s no need to hover over the stove.

Made with steel cut oats for a hearty texture and a boost of plant-based protein from your favorite milk, this recipe is filling, wholesome, and balanced. It’s flavored with cinnamon, cardamom, and allspice for that true apple pie vibe—without any added sugar (making it baby-friendly too!)

These oats are also completely customizable: stir in nuts, seeds, or a spoonful of nut butter in the morning for added richness, or top with yogurt for creaminess. Kid-friendly and meal-prep friendly, this recipe makes enough to enjoy all week.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 1 cup steel cut oats
  
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  
• 2–3 cups chopped apples (skin on or off)
  
• 3 cups higher-protein plant-based milk
  
• 2 cups water
  
• 1 tsp cinnamon
  
• ¼ tsp allspice
  
• ¼ tsp cardamom
  
• ¼ tsp sea salt
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method

1. Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker before bed.
   
2. Set to low and cook for 7 hours overnight.
   
3. In the morning, stir well. Add a splash of extra milk to thin, if needed, and swirl in butter or walnut oil for richness.
   
4. Scoop into bowls and top with your favorite add-ins (nut butter, chopped nuts, extra fruit, or a dollop of yogurt).

Nutrition Info (per serving, 6 servings)

~190 calories, 4 g fat (0.5 g saturated), 34 g carbs (5 g fiber, 10 g sugar), 6 g protein

FAQs

Can I use rolled oats instead of steel cut oats?
Steel cut oats hold their texture better in the slow cooker. Rolled oats may turn mushy with overnight cooking, so if you want to use them, cook for only 2–3 hours instead.

Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes! You can simmer everything on the stovetop for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender.

How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.

Can I freeze apple pie overnight oats?
Absolutely—portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Can I make this nut-free?
Yes—use any nut-free plant milk and skip the walnut oil. A drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter (dairy-free if needed) works as a replacement.

More Make-Ahead Breakfasts You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this recipe, here are a few more easy, prep-ahead breakfasts to try:

• 5-Ingredient Banana Bread Mini Muffins
  
• Easy Make-Ahead French Toast Bake

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