Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal
Are you looking for a delicious, nutritious breakfast that practically cooks itself while you sleep? Look no further! This Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal is the perfect solution for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Creamy, rich, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this oatmeal will fuel your day with energy and satisfaction. The combination of peanut butter and bananas creates a naturally sweet flavor that kids and adults alike will adore. So, grab your crockpot, and let’s get started on this delightful breakfast!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, using a crockpot allows for a hands-off cooking approach, perfect for those hectic mornings. You can set it up the night before, and wake up to the enticing aroma of warm oatmeal. Second, the combination of ripe bananas and peanut butter not only adds flavor but also brings in essential nutrients. Bananas offer potassium and fiber, while peanut butter adds protein and healthy fats. Lastly, this recipe is versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the sweetness to your liking.
Gather These Ingredients
To make the perfect Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 very ripe bananas – mashed for natural sweetness
- 1/4 cup peanut butter – creamy or crunchy, your choice
- 3 cups milk – any type of milk works, including non-dairy alternatives
- 3 tablespoons Truvia Brown Sugar Blend – for added sweetness without the calories
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – for warmth and flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – to enhance the overall taste
- 2 tablespoons flax seed – optional, but a great source of omega-3 fatty acids
- 1 cup steel cut oats – for a hearty texture
- Bananas for topping – fresh slices to add on top before serving
- Truvia Brown Sugar Baking Blend for topping – a sprinkle for an extra touch of sweetness
Equipment at a Glance
Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:
- Crockpot – the star of the show for slow cooking
- Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing everything together
- Serving bowls – to dish out the delicious oatmeal
Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal — Do This Next
Now that you have everything ready, follow these simple steps to create your Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the very ripe bananas until smooth. This will help distribute their sweetness evenly throughout the oatmeal.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Add the peanut butter, milk, Truvia Brown Sugar Blend, cinnamon, vanilla extract, flax seed, and steel cut oats to the bowl with the mashed bananas. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot
Pour the mixture into your crockpot, spreading it out evenly. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to get every last bit of that delicious mixture.
Step 4: Set the Crockpot
Cover the crockpot with the lid, set it to low heat, and cook for about 6-8 hours. This is perfect for overnight cooking, so you can wake up to a warm breakfast.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, give the oatmeal a good stir. Serve it warm in bowls, topped with fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of Truvia Brown Sugar Baking Blend for that extra sweetness!
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks
If you want to make this recipe even healthier or cater to your dietary needs, consider these options:
- Substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for peanut butter for a nut-free version.
- Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to reduce calories further.
- Add a scoop of protein powder to enhance the protein content.
- Include additional mix-ins like chia seeds or dried fruits for added nutrition and texture.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you run into any issues while making your Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal, here are some tips to help:
- If the oatmeal is too thick after cooking, add a splash of milk to loosen it up before serving.
- For a creamier texture, consider blending the mixture before adding it to the crockpot.
- If the oatmeal is too sweet for your taste, reduce the amount of Truvia Brown Sugar Blend in future batches.
- Ensure your crockpot is set to low heat; cooking on high may result in burnt edges or uneven cooking.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal fresh and tasty, follow these storing guidelines:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat individual servings in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- This oatmeal can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reader Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of steel cut oats?
While you can use quick oats, keep in mind that the cooking time will be significantly shorter. Adjust the crockpot time accordingly, as quick oats typically cook in about 1-2 hours on low heat.
What can I substitute for Truvia Brown Sugar Blend?
You can substitute it with regular brown sugar, coconut sugar, or any other sweetener of your choice. Just adjust the quantity based on your preferred sweetness level.
Can I add other fruits to this oatmeal?
Absolutely! Feel free to add berries, apples, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist on this oatmeal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
This Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and portion it out for easy breakfasts throughout the week.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve made your delicious Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal, it’s time to serve and enjoy! This warm, hearty dish is perfect for breakfast or even a cozy snack. Top it with your favorite fruits and a sprinkle of Truvia Brown Sugar Baking Blend for that extra touch. Whether you’re enjoying it at the breakfast table with family or on-the-go, this oatmeal will surely become a favorite in your household.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s a nourishing start to your day, packed with flavors and nutrients that will keep you satisfied for hours. So, why not whip up a batch tonight and wake up to the delightful aroma of Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal in the morning? Your taste buds will thank you!
Peanut Butter Banana Crockpot Oatmeal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, mash the very ripe bananas until smooth. This will help distribute their sweetness evenly throughout the oatmeal.
- Add the peanut butter, milk, Truvia Brown Sugar Blend, cinnamon, vanilla extract, flax seed, and steel cut oats to the bowl with the mashed bananas. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into your crockpot, spreading it out evenly. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to get every last bit of that delicious mixture.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid, set it to low heat, and cook for about 6-8 hours. This is perfect for overnight cooking, so you can wake up to a warm breakfast.
- Once cooked, give the oatmeal a good stir. Serve it warm in bowls, topped with fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of Truvia Brown Sugar Baking Blend for that extra sweetness!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat individual servings in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- This oatmeal can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
