Instant Pot Apple Pie Steel Cut Oats: A Warm and Comforting Breakfast

Craving the comforting flavors of apple pie but want a healthy and convenient breakfast option? Look no further! These Instant Pot Apple Pie Steel Cut Oats are the perfect solution. This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of steel cut oats with the warm, spiced flavors of apple pie, all cooked to creamy perfection in your Instant Pot. It’s a simple, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for busy mornings, meal prepping, or a cozy weekend brunch.

**Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**

* **Quick and Easy:** The Instant Pot makes cooking steel cut oats a breeze. No more babysitting the stove! Set it and forget it.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Steel cut oats are packed with fiber, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied for hours. Apples provide vitamins, antioxidants, and more fiber.
* **Delicious Apple Pie Flavor:** The cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar create a warm and inviting apple pie flavor that’s irresistible.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your dietary needs and preferences. Use different sweeteners, add nuts or seeds, or top with your favorite toppings.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy warm, comforting breakfasts all week long.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup steel cut oats
* 4 cups water (or apple juice for extra apple flavor)
* 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well)
* 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed) (or maple syrup, honey, or your preferred sweetener)
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 tablespoon butter (or coconut oil, optional for extra richness)
* Optional Toppings: chopped pecans or walnuts, maple syrup, a drizzle of milk (dairy or non-dairy), Greek yogurt, whipped cream, extra diced apples

**Equipment:**

* Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Knife and cutting board

**Instructions:**

**Step-by-Step Guide to Delicious Apple Pie Steel Cut Oats**

1. **Prepare the Apples:** Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend nicely into the oats.

2. **Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot:** In the Instant Pot, combine the steel cut oats, water (or apple juice), diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and butter (if using). Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. **Pressure Cook:** Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the steam release valve is set to the sealing position. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure. (Yes, only 4 minutes! Steel cut oats cook incredibly quickly in the Instant Pot).

4. **Natural Pressure Release:** Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes. This is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy texture and preventing the oats from splattering during the quick release.

5. **Release Remaining Pressure:** After 15 minutes of natural pressure release, carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position. Be cautious of escaping steam.

6. **Stir and Serve:** Once the pressure is fully released and the float valve has dropped, carefully open the lid of the Instant Pot. Stir the oats well. They will be thick and creamy. If they seem too thick, add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency.

7. **Serve and Enjoy!:** Serve the Instant Pot Apple Pie Steel Cut Oats warm. Add your favorite toppings, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon.

**Detailed Instructions and Tips for Perfect Results**

**1. Choosing the Right Apples:**

* **Granny Smith:** Offers a tartness that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. They hold their shape well during cooking.
* **Honeycrisp:** Provides a sweet and slightly tart flavor with a crisp texture, even after cooking.
* **Fuji:** A sweeter apple with a slightly softer texture. They will break down a bit more during cooking, creating a smoother consistency.
* **Other Options:** Braeburn, Gala, and Pink Lady apples also work well. Experiment to find your favorite!

**2. Liquid Ratio:**

* **Water vs. Apple Juice:** Using water results in a more neutral flavor, allowing the apple pie spices to shine through. Apple juice intensifies the apple flavor, making the oats sweeter and more aromatic.
* **Adjusting Liquid:** If you prefer a looser consistency, add an extra 1/2 cup of liquid. For thicker oats, reduce the liquid by 1/4 cup. Keep in mind that the oats will thicken as they cool.

**3. Sweetener Options:**

* **Brown Sugar:** Adds a rich, molasses-like flavor that complements the apple pie spices perfectly.
* **Maple Syrup:** Provides a natural sweetness with a hint of maple flavor.
* **Honey:** Offers a floral sweetness and a slightly sticky texture.
* **Other Options:** Coconut sugar, agave nectar, or even a sugar substitute can be used. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness level.

**4. Spice It Up:**

* **Cinnamon:** A must-have for apple pie flavor. Use high-quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor.
* **Nutmeg:** Adds warmth and depth to the spice blend. Freshly grated nutmeg is preferred but ground nutmeg works well too.
* **Other Spices:** Consider adding a pinch of ground ginger, cloves, or allspice for a more complex flavor profile. A dash of cardamom can also add a unique twist.

**5. Natural Pressure Release (NPR) is Key:**

* **Why NPR is Important:** Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy texture. It prevents the oats from splattering and ensures they are cooked through properly.
* **If You’re Short on Time:** If you’re in a hurry, you can shorten the natural pressure release to 10 minutes, but be aware that there may be more sputtering when you release the remaining pressure manually.

**6. Adding Butter (or Coconut Oil):**

* **Flavor and Texture:** Adding a tablespoon of butter or coconut oil enhances the richness and creaminess of the oats. It also adds a subtle flavor that complements the other ingredients.
* **Optional:** If you’re watching your fat intake or prefer a lighter option, you can omit the butter or coconut oil. The oats will still be delicious.

**7. Topping Ideas:**

* **Nuts:** Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
* **Seeds:** Chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp seeds provide extra fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and a subtle nutty flavor.
* **Fruit:** Extra diced apples, sliced bananas, or berries add freshness and sweetness.
* **Dairy:** A drizzle of milk (dairy or non-dairy), a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a swirl of whipped cream adds creaminess and flavor.
* **Sweeteners:** Maple syrup, honey, or a sprinkle of brown sugar add extra sweetness.
* **Other Toppings:** A sprinkle of granola, a drizzle of peanut butter, or a dusting of cocoa powder can also be delicious.

**8. Make it Vegan:**

* **Use plant-based milk:** Substitute dairy milk with almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
* **Use maple syrup or agave:** Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar.
* **Use coconut oil:** Instead of butter, use a tablespoon of coconut oil.

**9. Storage Instructions:**

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover Instant Pot Apple Pie Steel Cut Oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or milk if the oats have thickened too much. Stir well before serving.
* **Freezer:** You can also freeze the oats for longer storage. Divide the oats into individual portions and store them in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

**Variations and Adaptations:**

* **Add Protein:** Stir in a scoop of protein powder after cooking for an extra boost of protein.
* **Chocolate Apple Pie Oats:** Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the Instant Pot along with the other ingredients.
* **Caramel Apple Pie Oats:** Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
* **Cranberry Apple Pie Oats:** Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the Instant Pot.
* **Pumpkin Spice Apple Pie Oats:** Add 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree and 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the Instant Pot.
* **Reduce Sugar:** Use unsweetened apple sauce in place of some of the apple juice. Substitute the brown sugar with stevia, monk fruit, or other sugar alternatives.

**Troubleshooting:**

* **Oats are too dry:** Add more liquid (water or milk) to the Instant Pot after cooking and stir well.
* **Oats are too mushy:** Reduce the cooking time by 1 minute next time. Be sure to use steel cut oats, not rolled oats or quick oats.
* **Instant Pot is sputtering:** Ensure the steam release valve is set to the sealing position during cooking. Allow for a natural pressure release to prevent sputtering.
* **Burn Notice:** While unlikely with this recipe, if you get a burn notice, immediately turn off the Instant Pot and allow the pressure to release naturally. Carefully open the lid and stir the oats well, scraping the bottom of the pot. Add a bit more liquid if needed and continue cooking on the saute function until heated through. It’s important to have enough liquid in the Instant Pot to prevent burning.

**Health Benefits of Steel Cut Oats:**

* **High in Fiber:** Steel cut oats are an excellent source of soluble and insoluble fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
* **Good Source of Protein:** Steel cut oats contain a decent amount of plant-based protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
* **Rich in Antioxidants:** Steel cut oats are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your body against damage from free radicals.
* **May Lower Cholesterol:** Studies have shown that consuming steel cut oats regularly can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
* **Provides Sustained Energy:** The complex carbohydrates in steel cut oats provide a slow and steady release of energy, preventing energy crashes.

**Why the Instant Pot is Perfect for Steel Cut Oats:**

Cooking steel cut oats on the stovetop can be time-consuming and requires constant attention to prevent them from sticking and burning. The Instant Pot simplifies the process and delivers consistently perfect results every time. It eliminates the need for constant stirring and babysitting, allowing you to prepare a healthy and delicious breakfast with minimal effort.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* Enjoy these Instant Pot Apple Pie Steel Cut Oats as a warm and comforting breakfast.
* Serve them as a healthy and satisfying dessert.
* Pack them in a thermos for a portable and nutritious lunch.
* Offer them as a delicious and wholesome snack.

**Final Thoughts:**

These Instant Pot Apple Pie Steel Cut Oats are a game-changer for busy mornings and anyone who loves the flavors of apple pie. They’re easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrition. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of a warm, comforting, and healthy breakfast that will keep you energized all morning long!

**Recipe Card:**

**Instant Pot Apple Pie Steel Cut Oats**

A quick and easy recipe for delicious and comforting apple pie flavored steel cut oats made in the Instant Pot.

**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 4 minutes
**Natural Pressure Release:** 15 minutes
**Total Time:** ~30 minutes
**Servings:** 4-6

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup steel cut oats
* 4 cups water (or apple juice)
* 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
* 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed) (or maple syrup)
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
* Optional Toppings: chopped nuts, maple syrup, milk, yogurt, extra diced apples

**Instructions:**

1. Peel, core, and dice the apples.
2. In the Instant Pot, combine the steel cut oats, water (or apple juice), diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and butter (if using).
3. Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on manual/pressure cook for 4 minutes at high pressure.
4. Allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and stir the oats well. Add more liquid if needed to reach desired consistency.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

**Notes:**

* Adjust the liquid ratio to your desired consistency.
* Use your favorite apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
* Experiment with different sweeteners and spices to customize the flavor.

**Enjoy!**