1-Getting started with this slow cooker pumpkin pie oatmeal: Begin by coating your slow cooker with butter, coconut oil, or cooking spray to prevent sticking that’s the secret to easy cleanup. Once that’s done, you’re ready to add all the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work overnight.

2-Follow these directions closely for the best results: First, add the 1 cup steel-cut oats, 2 ½ cups water, 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk, 1 cup pumpkin puree, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt into the slow cooker. Stir everything well to mix thoroughly, as settling can occur during cooking.

3-Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook: for 6-8 hours, with 7 hours being ideal if your device is programmable; then switch to warm. In the morning, stir the oatmeal thoroughly to blend any settled ingredients at the bottom. Serve it up in bowls and top with extras like chopped nuts or a drizzle of maple syrup for that personal touch.