Creamy Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats – Easy Morning Recipe

Imagine waking up to a warm, creamy bowl that practically makes itself while you sleep. That’s what Instant Pot steel cut oats can do. They’re nutty, satisfying, and easy to dress up with whatever you love—fruit, nuts, honey, even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar baked donuts crumbs (more on that later). And yes, you can prep it in the evening, hit “pressure cook,” and enjoy a delicious, healthy breakfast with almost zero effort.

Let me walk you through how to make it—and share tips so it turns out just right, even if you’re half‑asleep in the morning.

🕒 Time & Serving

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes pressure + ~15 minutes release
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Servings: 4 generous portions

🛠 Kitchen Tools Needed

Instant Pot (or any 6‑ or 8‑quart electric pressure cooker)
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon or silicone spatula
Bowl and toppings spoons

🥣 Ingredients

1 cup steel cut oats
3 cups water (or half water, half milk for creamier texture)
Pinch of salt
Optional stir‑ins: 1 tsp vanilla, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1–2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup

👩‍🍳 How to Make It

Add oats, water, and salt to the Instant Pot. (If you want it richer, swap half the water for milk.)
Secure the lid and turn valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Let pressure release naturally for 10–15 minutes—don’t quick release or you’ll get foamy splatter.
Open the lid carefully, stir in vanilla, cinnamon, or sweetener if you like.
Check consistency—if it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or water; if too watery, sauté on “Warm” for a couple minutes to thicken.
Divide into bowls and top however you want.

🍴 How to Serve

Classic: A pat of butter, drizzle of maple syrup, fresh berries
Nutty: Chopped almonds or walnuts, a dash of brown sugar
Fruity: Sliced banana, blueberry compote, or diced apples
Decadent: Sprinkle leftover cinnamon sugar baked donuts crumbs—yes, really! A sweet twist.

💡 Extra Tips to Make It Perfect

Let it sit on Warm for a few minutes after cooking—it thickens up nicely.
Hands-off prep: Add oats and water before bed; cook in the morning.
Texture tweak: Use half-and-half or milk instead of water for a creamier bowl.
Flavor boosters: Melt in nut butter or fold in protein powder after cooking for added nutrition.

🧊 Storage Tips

In the fridge: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water in the microwave.
Freezer‑friendly: Scoop into small freezer bags, freeze flat for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, reheat gently.

🧮 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 260
Protein: 8g
Carbs: 44g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 1g (without toppings)
(values could vary slightly depending on milk used)

📝 Recipe Notes

Using half water and half milk gives a richer, creamier texture.
Leave the natural release time—otherwise oats may splatter or foam.
Want savory oats? Skip sweet toppings, swirl in butter, cheese, salt, pepper, and maybe an egg or two.

❓FAQs (with Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donuts Tips)

1. Can I set the Instant Pot on a timer to cook overnight?
Yes—but only if your model has a reliable delay start (and you trust your electric safety). Oats hold up well, though texture may soften slightly.

2. Can I freeze cooked oats with mix-ins?
Yes, but add delicate toppings (like fresh berries or donut crumbs) after reheating for best texture.

3. How do I avoid foamy oats in the Instant Pot?
Use natural release, add a little oil or butter, and don’t stir until after pressure cooking.

4. Best way to use leftovers of cinnamon sugar baked donuts?
Crumble them over your oatmeal or mix into yogurt. The crumbs add a sweet crunch that reminds you of donut mornings.

5. Can I make a single serving instead of 4?
Absolutely. Use ½ cup oats and 1½ cups liquid; cook same time. Just reduce release time if you’re in a rush—5–7 minutes natural release.