How to make a large batch of oatmeal on the stovetop or in a multi-cooker. This is perfect for a big family or for when you want to make it ahead of time.
2cupswhole milkdo not use skim or 2% milk, it may curdle
4cupsold fashioned oats
1teaspoonsalt
3teaspoonsground cinnamon
1/2teaspoonnutmeg
1/2cupbrown sugar
1 1/2cupschopped appleI prefer granny smith
1teaspoonvanilla
Instructions
Multi Cooker Instructions
Place the multicooker on boil. Add water and milk, (use whole milk, lower fat milk may curdle). When the milk and water begins to simmer, add the oatmeal, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
When the oatmeal begins to boil add the chopped apple. Cook on a full boil for 7 to 8 minutes. Stir frequently, the oatmeal will scorch if you do not stir.
Add brown sugar, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes more. Turn off the heat.
Add the vanilla and stir in well.
Stovetop Instructions
In a large pot, add water and milk, (use whole milk, lower fat milk may curdle). Cook on high. When the milk and water begin to simmer, add the oatmeal, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
When the oatmeal begins to boil add the chopped apple. Cook on a full boil for 7 to 8 minutes. Stir frequently, the oatmeal will scorch if you do not stir.
Add brown sugar, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes more. Remove from heat.
Add the vanilla and stir in well.
Slow Cooker Instructions
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Add the water, whole milk, oats, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped apples to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine. Do not add the brown sugar or vanilla yet.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the oats are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible, though it's not required.
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
Once cooking is complete, turn off the slow cooker and stir in the vanilla extract.
Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving - the oatmeal will continue to thicken.
Video
Recipe Tips
Notes for slow cooker method:
The oatmeal will be creamier and softer when cooked in the slow cooker compared to the stovetop or multi-cooker methods
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
If the oatmeal seems too thick after cooking, stir in additional warm milk to reach desired consistency