Instant Pot Oatmeal with Strawberries & Dates

I love starting my mornings with something warm, cozy, and nourishing — and this Instant Pot Oatmeal topped with strawberries, dates, shredded coconut, and ground flaxseed has become my go-to. It’s creamy, naturally sweet, and keeps me full for hours. The Instant Pot makes it completely hands-off, which means I can get the kids ready while breakfast cooks itself. If you’re diving into Instant Pot Recipes, this one is a must-try. I even found it pairs beautifully with a sweet treat like my air fryer donuts when we want a little indulgence.

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What You’ll Need

You don’t need much to pull together this comforting bowl. Here’s what I keep on hand:

• Old-fashioned oats or steel-cut oats – I usually go with steel-cut for extra creaminess.
• Water or milk – I like a mix of both for richness.
• Strawberries – Fresh, sliced, and juicy.
• Dates – Chopped for natural sweetness.
• Shredded coconut – Unsweetened works best here.
• Ground flaxseed – Adds nutty flavor and a boost of fiber.
• Salt – Just a pinch brings out the flavors.

Pro tip: keep your pantry stocked with oats, and you’ll always have a quick breakfast ready. It’s as comforting as a bowl of pressure cooker lentil soup on a chilly evening.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Instant Pot Oatmeal topped with strawberries, dates, shredded coconut, and ground flaxseed

I promise, once you try this, you’ll wonder why you ever made oatmeal on the stovetop. The Instant Pot gives you consistent, creamy results every time — just like how slow cooker pork carnitas always turns out tender with no fuss.

Step 1 — Add oats and liquid

Pour oats, water (or milk), and a pinch of salt into the Instant Pot. Stir gently. I usually do half water, half milk for creaminess.

Step 2 — Pressure cook

Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure: 3 minutes for old-fashioned oats, 10 minutes for steel-cut oats. Then let it naturally release for about 10 minutes. This makes the oatmeal extra smooth.

Step 3 — Stir and adjust

Open the pot and stir. If it looks too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, let it sit a few minutes — it thickens as it cools.

Step 4 — Add toppings

Spoon into bowls and top with strawberries, chopped dates, shredded coconut, and a sprinkle of flaxseed. My kids love helping with this part — it’s like decorating dessert for breakfast.

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Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

• Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or peaches.
• Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if you want it sweeter.
• Stir in peanut butter or almond butter for creaminess.
• Toast the coconut first for extra flavor.
• Sprinkle cinnamon or cardamom for warmth.
• Prep toppings the night before to make mornings faster.
• Store leftovers in jars for grab-and-go breakfasts.

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Serving Ideas & Variations

This oatmeal is a meal on its own, but you can dress it up in so many ways:

• Top with granola for crunch.
• Add sliced bananas and walnuts.
• Stir in a spoonful of Nutella (my guilty pleasure).
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs for extra protein.
• Make it tropical with mango and pineapple.
• Use dried figs or raisins instead of dates.
• Add chia seeds or hemp seeds for a superfood boost.

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Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Oatmeal sticking to the pot – Always spray or butter the bottom lightly before cooking.
• Too watery – Let it sit for 5 minutes after cooking; it thickens quickly.
• Too thick – Stir in more milk until creamy.
• Burn warning on Instant Pot – Make sure you have enough liquid (at least 3 cups for steel-cut oats).
• Bland flavor – Don’t forget that pinch of salt; it really makes a difference.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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You’ll Also Love

If you enjoyed this oatmeal, try these other cozy bowls from my Instant Pot collection:

• Instant Pot Ribs – fall-off-the-bone tender with minimal effort.
• Instant Pot Chicken Curry – rich, flavorful, and a family favorite.
• Instant Pot Vegetable Soup – hearty and perfect for weeknights.

Find more breakfast-worthy ideas on my Instant Pot Recipes page.