Slow Cooker Pumpkin Oatmeal with Pears and Spices Recipe

I absolutely love how cozy and comforting this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Oatmeal with Pears and Spices Recipe turns out every time. There’s just something magical about waking up to a warm, fragrant pot of oatmeal, especially during those crisp fall or chilly winter mornings. This recipe blends the earthiness of pumpkin with the natural sweetness of pears and a lovely mix of spices, making breakfast feel like a special occasion without the fuss.

When I first tried this slow cooker pumpkin oatmeal with pears and spices recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to set and forget. You just toss everything into the slow cooker before bed, go about your day, and come back to a thick, creamy, and perfectly spiced oatmeal. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy mornings or craving a heartwarming meal for weekend brunch, you’ll find this recipe both reliable and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a creamy, nutrient-packed breakfast. A few tips: use ripe pears for natural sweetness and choose good-quality pumpkin puree for depth of flavor.

• Steel Cut Oats: They hold their texture better than rolled oats in slow cooking, giving you that perfect chewy bite every time.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds creaminess and vitamins; I prefer canned for convenience, but fresh roasted pumpkin works great too.
• Cinnamon, Ground Ginger, Nutmeg, and Cloves: Classic spices that blend into cozy autumn vibes—feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors—don’t skip it even though it’s a sweet dish!
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the spices and adds subtle sweetness.
• Pears: I use Bosc or Bartlett diced into quarters-inch cubes so they soften nicely but still hold some shape.
• Water and Milk: The combo keeps the oatmeal creamy but not too heavy; whole milk gives the richest results, but any milk works.

Variations

I love experimenting with this slow cooker pumpkin oatmeal with pears and spices recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. It’s incredibly flexible, so feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your mood.

• Nut-Free Version: Skip any nut toppings and try coconut flakes or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch—I’ve done this for my niece and she loved the texture boost.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and replace honey or sweetener with maple syrup or agave; it comes out just as delicious.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or Greek yogurt after cooking for an indulgent twist—my husband’s favorite way to eat it!
• Seasonal Fruit Swaps: When pears aren’t in season, apples or chopped dried apricots work wonders and add a slightly different sweetness profile.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pumpkin Oatmeal with Pears and Spices Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing your pears into about quarter-inch cubes; this size allows them to soften without turning into mush. Measure out the steel cut oats, pumpkin puree, and spices. I like to have everything ready to go because it makes the assembling process super quick and less stressful in the morning or before bed.

Step 2: Add Everything to Your Slow Cooker

Place the steel cut oats, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, kosher salt, vanilla extract, diced pears, water, and milk in a 6-quart slow cooker. Give it a good stir so all those spices and flavors mingle together nicely. This is important so you get an even, flavorful oatmeal rather than pockets of plain oats.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow or Quick and Hot

Cover and set your slow cooker to cook either on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours. I prefer cooking on low overnight — it’s ready to eat as soon as I roll out of bed, smells heavenly, and has that perfectly creamy texture. Either way, the oatmeal should be thickened and tender when done. If you wake up early and it seems a bit too loose, you can always uncover and let it simmer while you get ready.

Step 4: Serve and Customize

Scoop the oatmeal into bowls and feel free to add your favorite toppings—some crunchy nuts, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, or even extra diced fruit. Personally, I like a handful of toasted pecans and a splash of cream on top. You’ll love how the toppings bring extra textures and flavors to this comforting morning meal.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pumpkin Oatmeal with Pears and Spices Recipe

Garnishes

I often garnish with chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra aroma. Sometimes a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup makes it feel extra indulgent. Fresh pear slices on top add a pretty touch and fresh burst.

Side Dishes

On a leisurely morning, I love pairing this oatmeal with a side of scrambled eggs or a slice of whole-grain toast. For a sweeter spin, a side of cinnamon-spiced baked apples complements the pear and pumpkin flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday brunches, I sometimes serve the oatmeal in mini mason jars topped with whipped cream and candied pecans—everyone loves the presentation! Or spoon it into hollowed-out mini pumpkins for a festive, farm-to-table feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I transfer leftovers to airtight containers and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. The oats thicken as they cool, so you might want to stir in a splash of milk when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

Freezing works great here too—I portion the oatmeal into freezer-safe containers or bags. Just remember to leave some room for expansion. When thawed overnight in the fridge, it reheats well with a quick stir and a splash of liquid.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a little extra milk or water to loosen the texture. Stirring occasionally helps it warm evenly and keeps it from drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Oatmeal with Pears and Spices Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen during chilly months. It’s my go-to when I want a warm, nourishing breakfast waiting for me without any morning rush. I genuinely think you’ll love how easy it is, the nourishing flavors, and the flexibility to make it your own — it’s like a hug in a bowl. Give it a try, and soon it might just become your favorite cozy morning ritual, too!

Print