When the air turns crisp and mornings feel cooler, there’s nothing quite as comforting as waking up to a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal. It’s a healthy, flavorful breakfast that blends the nostalgic taste of pumpkin pie with the nourishing benefits of whole grains — and best of all, it cooks overnight while you sleep.
Made with steel-cut oats, pumpkin purée, warm spices, and just the right touch of sweetness, this recipe is an ideal choice for anyone seeking healthy slow cooker breakfasts. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for busy workdays, or embracing fall flavors in every bite, this pumpkin pie oatmeal delivers all the cozy goodness of the season.
Looking for more comforting breakfast ideas? You’ll also enjoy our Brown Sugar Overnight Oats or seasonal Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal for wholesome starts to your day.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Slow Cooker Breakfast
This oatmeal is the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Here’s why it should be in your weekly breakfast rotation:
- Set it and forget it – No morning prep needed.
- No burnt edges – Thanks to water bath cooking method.
- Perfectly creamy – Steel-cut oats cook low and slow to perfection.
- Healthy ingredients – Naturally sweetened and packed with fiber.
- Tastes like dessert – All the fall flavor of pumpkin pie without the guilt.
If you love nourishing breakfasts that don’t require standing over the stove, this one’s for you. It also pairs perfectly with quick bites like Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl.
What Is Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal? A Fall Breakfast Favorite
Pumpkin pie oatmeal is a warm, spiced breakfast dish that transforms traditional oats into something festive and comforting. By combining steel-cut oats with pumpkin purée, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup, this dish mimics the creamy richness and flavor of pumpkin pie — without the crust or calories.
When prepared in a slow cooker overnight, the oats absorb every bit of spice and sweetness, creating a smooth, custardy texture. It’s one of the best easy pumpkin oatmeal ideas for a hands-off, hearty breakfast.
Want a savory fall option too? Try our Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes for a protein-packed alternative.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
To make this healthy and delicious slow-cooked oatmeal, you’ll need:
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon cloves
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Dried cranberries or raisins
- A swirl of almond butter
- Sprinkle of Pumpkin Spice Granola
This base recipe is endlessly customizable — great for everyone from picky eaters to health-conscious meal preppers.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Overnight Pumpkin Quick Oats
Step 1: Use a Water Bath
Place a heat-safe bowl (ceramic or metal) inside your slow cooker. Add all ingredients into the bowl. Then pour water around the bowl inside the crockpot to create a water bath. This prevents scorching or sticking to the sides.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In the bowl, stir together the steel-cut oats, pumpkin, milk, water, maple syrup, vanilla, spices, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Cover and Cook
Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Set it to low for 7–8 hours or warm for 9–10 hours depending on your schedule and cooker’s heat level.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
In the morning, carefully remove the bowl. Stir the oatmeal well and serve with your favorite toppings.
Need a visual idea of what a healthy breakfast layout looks like? Our Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls show just how simple and satisfying mornings can be.
Essential Tools for Making Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal in the Slow Cooker
To ensure the perfect texture and flavor, make sure you have:
- A 6-quart slow cooker
- A ceramic or oven-safe mixing bowl (fits inside your slow cooker)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- A long spoon for stirring
This water bath method guarantees smooth oats with no burnt edges or sticky mess.
Healthy Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Benefits
This breakfast isn’t just cozy — it’s good for you too! Here’s why:
- Steel-cut oats are whole grains rich in fiber and protein
- Pumpkin is loaded with vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants
- Spices like cinnamon and ginger have anti-inflammatory benefits
- No refined sugar when using maple syrup or coconut sugar
It’s perfect if you’re looking for menu sarapan sehat (healthy breakfast menu) options that are nutrient-dense and satisfying.
Try pairing it with a seasonal sip like this Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew for a true café-style start to your day.
Easy Pumpkin Oatmeal Ideas and Add-ins
Take this oatmeal to the next level with any of these delicious stir-ins and toppings:
- Chopped apples – Add in during the last hour for soft, sweet bites
- Chia or flax seeds – Boosts omega-3s and fiber
- Dollop of coconut yogurt – Adds creaminess and tang
- Mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs – A little indulgence
- Pumpkin seeds – Crunch and protein in one
For more flavor-packed breakfasts, explore our Pumpkin Brownies or Pumpkin Protein Muffins.
How to Avoid Burnt Edges in Slow Cooker Pumpkin Recipes
Burnt oatmeal is a common issue in slow cookers, but here’s how to prevent it:
- Use a water bath – Crucial for even, gentle heat
- Don’t cook on high – Stick to low or warm
- Use steel-cut oats – Rolled oats cook too fast and break down
- Grease the bowl if not using a water bath to prevent sticking
These tips are great for any slow cooker pumpkin recipe, including soups and sides.
Serving Suggestions and Pumpkin Breakfast Pairings
Make your breakfast feel extra special with these pairings:
- A slice of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
- A side of Cottage Cheese Egg Bake for added protein
- Top with No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Balls as a fun add-on
This meal is both satisfying and visually beautiful — ideal for slow weekend mornings or holiday brunches.
Storing and Reheating Overnight Pumpkin Oatmeal
To Store:
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To Reheat:
Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen it. Stir well and enjoy with toppings.
You can also portion into jars for a grab-and-go breakfast like Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats.
Variations: Make It Classic, Creamy, or with Pecan Crumble
There are many ways to tweak this recipe depending on your preferences:
- Classic Pumpkin Oatmeal – Skip sweeteners and top with fresh fruit
- Creamy Version – Add coconut milk or a swirl of almond butter
- Pumpkin Pecan Crumble Topping – Mix oats, pecans, maple syrup, and coconut oil, bake separately, and sprinkle on top for texture
Explore more unique fall variations with our Pumpkin French Toast Roll-Ups or Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.
Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal for a Menu Sarapan Sehat (Healthy Breakfast Menu)
In Indonesia and beyond, more families are turning to oats and grains for healthy breakfasts. This pumpkin pie oatmeal fits perfectly into a menu sarapan sehat — offering lasting energy, gut-friendly fiber, and slow-digesting carbs.
Paired with fresh fruit and a protein-rich drink like soy milk or yogurt, it’s an ideal choice for students, professionals, or anyone seeking balanced nutrition in the morning.
You can also browse other high-fiber options like High Protein Overnight Oats for variety.
FAQs: All About Pumpkin Oatmeal and Slow Cooking
Can I use rolled oats instead of steel-cut oats?
Not recommended for overnight cooking, as they may turn mushy. Stick with steel-cut oats for best texture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The pumpkin pie flavor is mild and naturally sweet. Adjust maple syrup to suit their taste.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes. Freeze in individual portions and reheat with a splash of milk.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can simmer on the stovetop for 30–40 minutes, stirring frequently.
Can I make it without sweetener?
Yes. Replace maple syrup with mashed banana or leave it out entirely for a sugar-free version.
Final Thoughts + Call to Action: Save and Share for Healthy Fall Breakfasts
This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is the ultimate fall breakfast — comforting, nourishing, and incredibly easy to make. It brings together everything you love about pumpkin season with the ease of overnight slow cooking.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends, bookmark it for meal planning, and subscribe to the blog for more healthy slow cooker recipes, breakfast inspiration, and cozy fall favorites. You’ll never look at oats the same way again!
PrintSlow Cooker Baked Ziti: The Ultimate Comfort Food Made Easy
- Total Time: About 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Hearty, cheesy, and hands-off. This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti layers marinara, tender pasta, and melty cheeses with savory beef and Italian herbs for a cozy pasta casserole—all in your Crockpot with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 1/2 cups water or broth
- 1 box (16 oz) uncooked ziti or penne pasta
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta or cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until meat is browned and onions are soft. Add garlic; cook 1 minute. Drain excess fat.
- Add to Crockpot: Transfer meat mixture to slow cooker. Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, marinara, diced tomatoes, and water/broth.
- Stir in Pasta: Add uncooked pasta; stir so pasta is submerged.
- Layer with Cheese: Dollop ricotta or cottage cheese over the top. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella. Do not stir.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW 3–4 hours until pasta is tender (check at 3 hours).
- Finish with Cheese: In the last 10–15 minutes, top with remaining 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan; cover to melt.
- Serve: Scoop into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Notes
- No-boil pasta: Add it dry—just keep it submerged in sauce plus liquid.
- Stir once halfway: Helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overcook: Start checking for al dente at the 3-hour mark.
- Swap-ins: Use plant-based crumbles for vegetarian, or add spinach/mushrooms.
- Make-ahead: Brown meat and assemble early; slow cook when ready.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days; freeze portions up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours (LOW)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, Crockpot Pasta Casserole, No Boil Ziti, Easy Italian Slow Cooker, Pasta Crock Pot Recipes