4-Minute Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats (Vegan)

Mar 17, 2022 (Last updated Mar 18, 2024) by Hannah Sunderani

4-Minute Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats (Vegan)

Hiya friends! I am SO excited to share this recipe for perfect instant pot steel cut oats. Made with almond milk, this recipe is vegan and gluten-free. I love this recipe because it’s totally hands free. These Instant Pot steel cut oats cook in just 4 minutes, and gives perfect consistency every time! The end result is ultra creamy, nutty, perfectly sweet oatmeal.

Of all the types of oats, I often hear that steel cut oats are the most intimidating to cook. They are the least processed type of oat, and therefore require a long cooking time (typically 30 minutes).

But what if I told you that you can make deliciously creamy and soft steel cut oatmeal in just 4 MINUTES!? Making them in the Instant Pot cuts down the cook time significantly and it’s totally hands free. No stirring or watching over the pot.

This instant pot steel cut oats has quickly become a popular favourite in our household. Now, let me tell you exactly how to make this instant pot steel cut oats recipe so that you can enjoy them pronto!

Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

These instant pot steel cut oats are:

• Vegan
• Gluten-free
• Creamy
• Nutty
• Comforting
• soft and pleasantly chewy
• A completely hands-free recipe!
• Cooked to perfection is just 4 minutes!

I am confident that you are going to love this easy recipe as much as we do! Certainly, I won’t be cooking steel cut oats any other way than in my instant pot from here on in.

Table of Contents:

• What are steel cut oats?
• How long should you cook steel cut oats?
• How to cook steel cut oats in the Instant Pot
• What’s the ratio of water to steel cut oats in the instant pot?
• Allowing time for pressure build and release
• Steel Cut Oatmeal Toppings Ideas
• Do ahead/Storage Tips

What are steel cut oats?

Steel cut oats (also known as “Irish Oats” or “Scottish Oats”) are the least processed type of oats, which has resulted in their growing popularity.

Steel cut oats have a nuttier taste than other oat types. The texture is pleasantly chewy and its creamy when cooked.

How long should you cook steel cut oats?

Steel cut oats have so many health benefits and are incredibly tasty too. However, the downside is that steel cut oats take longer to cook; 20 to 30 minutes on the stove top.

Fortunately, using the instant pot cuts down the cook time significantly. This recipe pressure cooks the oats to be the perfect consistency in just 4 minutes!

Now, contrary to popular belief, steel cut oats can actually be used to make overnight oats with no cook time at all! Using my special method for Vegan Overnight Steel Cut Oats! They are a little chewier in texture, but so oh-so-delicious and perfect for the summer time.

And, if you’re used to cooking steel cut oats on the stovetop, and are a fan of this type of oatmeal then I highly encourage you to try my recipe for Fried Banana and Almond Maple Porridge. It’s heaven in a bowl!

How to cook steel cut oats in the Instant Pot

It is so easy to make steel cut oats in the Instant Pot. In fact, it’s easier than doing it on the stove top because the cooking process is completely hands free.

To make Instant pot steel cut oats you will add all your ingredients to the instant pot. Cover and seal with the lid.

Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook for 4 minutes. (The Instant Pot takes about 10 minutes to heat up and turn on. It will beep once started).

When finished, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Turn the toggle at the top to release any additional steam, then carefully remove the lid.

Give everything a good stir to combine. Scoop into bowls and add your favourite toppings.

Watch the How-to Video:

What’s the ratio of water to steel cut oats in the instant pot?

The ratio of liquid to oats in the Instant Pot is 3:1 (liquid to oats).

Now, I like to use both almond milk and water as it make the steel cut oats ultra creamy.

So, the exact ratios are (3 cups almond milk + 3 cups water) + 2 cups steel cut oats.

Allowing time for pressure build and release

It’s important to note that although this recipe has a 4 minute cook time, it takes a bit of time for the pressure cooker to build heat and some time after for a natural release. In total, the recipe takes closer to 20 minutes.

The benefit to using an Instant Pot for making steel cut oats is:

1. completely hands free
2. texture/consistency is perfect every time! (No guess work!)

I am certainly am convert to making steel cut oats in the Instant Pot. No watching over the oats, no frequent stirring, and no wondering whether the consistency is okay. Simply add the ingredients to the Instant Pot, turn it on, and leave it be.

Steel Cut Oatmeal Toppings Ideas:

Once your steel cut oats are cooked you can scoop into bowls and add your favourite toppings.

Here are some of my favourites:

1. Fresh fruit: Top with your favourite fresh fruits, I like banana and berries like raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries.
2. Frozen fruit: This is great in the winter time when fruits aren’t in season. I especially love frozen raspberries.
3. Apple and pears: Delicious either cooked or raw. If you like them cooked you can chop 1 or 2 apples/pears into bite sized pieces and add it to the instant pot with the other ingredients. If you love apples you’ll love my recipe for Fried Apple and Almond Butter Oatmeal.
4. Nut butters: My favourites are a drizzle of peanut butter or almond butter!
5. Other favourite toppings: Chocolate chips, coconut flakes, walnuts, almonds, hemp hearts, cacao nibs

Do ahead/Storage Tips:

This recipe can be made in advance. It will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Store in an air-tight container. It’s helpful to portion out the oatmeal into containers for storing.

When ready to eat, reheat the oatmeal in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Optional to add a splash of almond milk to thin if consistency is too thick. Mix well.

Can you freeze this recipe?

This recipe can be frozen! Portion out the oatmeal into air-tight containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before eating.

When ready to eat, reheat the oatmeal in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Optional to add a splash of almond milk to thin if consistency is too thick. Mix well.

So there we have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats. This recipe is totally hands free and gives perfect taste and consistency every time. I know you’re going to love this recipe as much as we do!

If you do make this recipe please let me know in the comments below what you think! I truly love hearing from you, and I’m always here to answer any questions you might have.

And of course, tag me on Instagram with your pictures using the hashtag #twospoons. Nothing makes me happier than to see your recreations.

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See more step-by-step instructions by visiting the recipe story here!

• Fall
• Winter
• 1-Pot
• 10 ingredients or less
• 30 mins or less