Hey there, breakfast lovers! Imagine waking up to the sweet, comforting aroma of strawberries and creamy oats wafting through your kitchen—no effort required. That’s exactly what this Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal for Two delivers. This cozy dish combines hearty steel-cut oats with juicy strawberries, a touch of vanilla, and a luscious creamy finish, all cooked low and slow for a perfect, no-fuss morning treat. It’s ideal for a romantic weekend brunch, a special weekday breakfast, or any time you want a warm, wholesome start to your day. I started making this when I wanted a breakfast that felt indulgent but was still healthy and easy, and it’s become my go-to for cozy mornings with my partner. It’s simple, delicious, and feels like a little hug in a bowl!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Prep: Toss everything in the Crock Pot the night before, and wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast.
- Perfect for Two: Scaled for a small batch, so no leftovers to deal with (unless you want seconds!).
- Healthy and Hearty: Steel-cut oats are packed with fiber, and strawberries add natural sweetness and vitamins.
- Customizable: Swap strawberries for other fruits or add your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
- Comforting Yet Light: Creamy and sweet without being heavy, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable fresh or frozen berries.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dessert with extra toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Steel-Cut Oats: These give the oatmeal a chewy, nutty texture—don’t use rolled or instant oats, as they’ll get mushy.
- Strawberries: Fresh or frozen work; they add juicy sweetness and a pop of color.
- Milk: Whole milk or a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk for creaminess.
- Heavy Cream: A small splash for that luxurious, velvety finish.
- Brown Sugar: Just enough to enhance the sweetness—maple syrup or honey work too.
- Vanilla Extract: A dash for warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with strawberries.
- Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness and bring out the flavors.
- Butter: For greasing the Crock Pot and adding a hint of richness.
- Cinnamon (optional): A sprinkle for extra warmth and depth.
(Note: A complete list of ingredients with exact measurements is included in the instructions section below.)
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Prep the Crock Pot
Lightly grease a 2–3-quart Crock Pot (or a small insert if your slow cooker has one) with 1 teaspoon of butter. This prevents sticking and adds a touch of flavor. If you’re using a larger Crock Pot, consider doubling the recipe or using a heat-safe bowl inside the pot (with water around it, like a water bath) to avoid burning.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In the greased Crock Pot, combine ½ cup of steel-cut oats, 1 ½ cups of milk, ½ cup of water, 1 cup of chopped fresh or frozen strawberries, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon (if using). Stir gently to mix everything evenly. The water helps the oats cook properly, while the milk adds creaminess.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours (perfect for overnight) or on high for 3–4 hours if you’re making it during the day. The oats should be tender and the strawberries softened into a jammy consistency. If you’re worried about overcooking, set a timer for 6 hours and check the texture—every Crock Pot is a little different.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Finish
Once cooked, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream to make the oatmeal extra luscious. If the oatmeal looks too thick, add a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness with an extra teaspoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Customize
Divide the oatmeal between two bowls. Top each with a few fresh strawberry slices, a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans), or a dollop of yogurt for extra flair. For an indulgent touch, drizzle with a little more cream or a dusting of cinnamon. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy vibes!
Helpful Tips
- Overnight Prep: Assemble everything in the Crock Pot before bed, and wake up to a ready breakfast. Just give it a quick stir and add the cream in the morning.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (unlikely!), store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The oats may thicken, so add a splash of milk when reheating.
- Reheating Tips: Reheat in the microwave with a bit of milk, stirring halfway, or on the stovetop over low heat. This keeps it creamy and prevents drying out.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea, a side of crispy bacon, or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced brunch. For a dessert twist, top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Creative Twists: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches. Add a tablespoon of chia seeds for extra nutrition or a handful of shredded coconut for texture. For a nutty boost, stir in a spoonful of almond butter before serving.
- Avoid Mushy Oats: Stick to steel-cut oats for the best texture, and don’t overcook. If using frozen strawberries, no need to thaw—they’ll release their juices as they cook, adding flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This is designed for overnight cooking, so prep it before bed, and it’s ready in the morning. If you want to make it earlier, cook, cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days, then reheat with extra milk.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Oatmeal can be frozen, but the texture may become softer. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
What if I don’t have steel-cut oats?
Rolled oats cook faster but can get mushy in the Crock Pot. If you must use them, reduce cooking time to 2–3 hours on low and check frequently. Instant oats aren’t recommended—they’ll turn to paste.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
It’s great for a small-batch breakfast, but if you want more for the week, double the recipe and store in portioned containers. Reheat as needed for quick, cozy mornings.
How do I make it vegan?
Use plant-based milk (like oat or almond), swap heavy cream for coconut cream, and replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan spread. Check that your brown sugar is vegan (some brands use bone char).
I whip up this Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal for Two whenever I want a special breakfast that feels like a treat but takes barely any effort—probably once a week when strawberries are in season. For a fun twist, try serving it in mason jars with layers of yogurt and granola for a parfait vibe. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear if it becomes your new breakfast favorite too!
Crock Pot Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal for Two
Ingredients
- ½ lb fresh strawberries washed and sliced, divided
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup steel-cut oats do not use old-fashioned or quick oats
- 1 cup milk
- ¾ cup water
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 oz cream cheese cubed (half of an 8 oz block)
Instructions
- Prepare strawberries: In a heat-safe mixing bowl, combine half of the sliced strawberries with sugar. Stir to coat and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release their juices.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: In your 4-quart slow cooker, add the steel-cut oats, milk, water, vanilla extract, and cream cheese cubes.
- Add strawberries: Stir the mixture to combine, then add the strawberry-sugar mixture and the remaining half of the sliced strawberries.
- Cook: Carefully place the bowl with the oatmeal mixture into the slow cooker, ensuring it fits and doesn’t touch the lid. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or until the oats are tender and the oatmeal has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Stir the oatmeal before serving to ensure the cream cheese is fully blended in. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, strawberry-infused oatmeal!
Notes
- Ensure to use steel-cut oats for the best texture and cooking results.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
- Sweeten to taste with additional sugar or a sweetener of your choice.
