Pumpkin Overnight Oats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it captures the comforting taste of pumpkin pie without baking. It’s ready when you wake up, giving you a filling, fiber-rich breakfast that tastes like dessert but supports your morning energy. The flavors deepen overnight, making every spoonful rich and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rolled (old-fashioned) oats
• Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• Milk or plant-based milk
• Yogurt (plain or vanilla, optional)
• Maple syrup, honey, or another sweetener
• Pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
• Vanilla extract
• Chia seeds (optional, for thickness)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts), pumpkin seeds, granola, dried cranberries, banana slices

Directions

1. Combine base ingredients
   In a jar or container with a lid, stir together the oats, pumpkin puree, milk, yogurt (if using), sweetener, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well blended.
2. Add thickener and mix-ins
   Stir in the chia seeds (if using) to help thicken overnight. Blend the mixture well so the pumpkin and oats are evenly distributed.
3. Seal and refrigerate
   Cover the jar or container and refrigerate overnight (at least 6–8 hours). During that time, the oats absorb liquid, and flavors meld together.
4. Adjust consistency in the morning
   In the morning, stir the oats. If they are too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the texture. If too thin, you can stir in a little extra oats or a pinch more chia.
5. Add toppings and serve
   Add your favorite toppings such as chopped nuts, seeds, granola, banana slices, or dried fruit just before serving for texture and extra flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 to 2 jars (depending on size)
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Soaking time: 6–8 hours (or overnight)
Total time: ~6–8 hours (mostly passive)

Variations

• Caramel pumpkin: Swirl in a spoonful of salted caramel or date syrup before serving.
• Chocolate pumpkin: Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips.
• Protein boost: Stir in a scoop of protein powder or a spoonful of nut butter.
• Banana pumpkin: Mix in mashed banana for added creaminess and sweetness.
• Spiced version: Increase nutmeg, include cardamom or allspice, or add a small pinch of ground cloves.
• Vegan/sugar-free: Use plant-based milk and a sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
• Layered parfait: Alternate layers of pumpkin oats and granola or fruit compote in a glass.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. The texture may soften over time, so consume while freshest.
• Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently microwave the oats in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring and adding a splash of milk if needed. Or warm in a saucepan over low heat.
• Serving cold: Stir well to recombine before eating. Add fresh toppings just before serving.

FAQs

What kind of oats should I use?

Rolled (old-fashioned) oats work best—they absorb liquid well while retaining a pleasant texture. Quick oats may become too mushy; steel-cut oats require more liquid/time or gentle pre-cooking.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which can unbalance sweetness and flavor. Use plain pumpkin puree for control.

Can I omit the yogurt?

Yes. Yogurt adds creaminess and tang, but you can leave it out and simply increase the milk proportion.

Will the oats get too thick overnight?

They’ll thicken as they absorb liquid. If too thick, stir in a bit more milk before eating. The chia seeds help maintain a creamy consistency.

Can I make multiple jars ahead?

Yes. Prepare several jars in advance, and store them in the fridge. Use within 2–3 days for optimal texture and flavor.

Can I freeze overnight oats?

Freezing is not ideal—the texture changes when thawed. It’s best eaten fresh or stored in the refrigerator.

How do I prevent separation or puddles?

Stir well before refrigerating and again in the morning. If any liquid pools on top, mix it back in or adjust the balance of milk and oats.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes. Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder during mixing, and adjust milk to maintain desired thickness.

Is this a healthy breakfast?

Yes. It’s fiber-rich, customizable to control sugar, and includes pumpkin, which adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Can I warm it in the morning?

Yes. Gently heat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk, stirring to reach your preferred temperature.

Conclusion

Pumpkin overnight oats are a delightful, fuss-free breakfast that brings autumn flavor to your mornings. With just a few ingredients and a simple overnight soak, you wake up to creamy, spiced oats ready to go. Whether you enjoy them cold or gently warmed, with nuts or fruit, they’re a comforting and nutritious way to start your day.

Pumpkin Overnight Oats

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Pumpkin Overnight Oats are a creamy, spiced, make-ahead breakfast that combines rolled oats, pumpkin puree, milk, and cozy fall spices. They deliver the flavor of pumpkin pie in a nourishing, ready-to-eat form perfect for busy mornings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 6–8 hours (overnight)
• Yield: 1–2 servings
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: No-cook, Refrigerated
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned)
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 1/2 cup milk or plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy, etc.)
• 1/4 cup yogurt (plain or vanilla, optional)
• 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves mix)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp chia seeds (optional, for thickness)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, granola, dried cranberries, banana slices

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Instructions

1. In a jar or bowl, combine rolled oats, pumpkin puree, milk, yogurt (if using), sweetener, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
2. Stir in chia seeds (if using) for added texture and thickening.
3. Cover the jar or bowl and refrigerate overnight (6–8 hours) to allow the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
4. In the morning, stir the oats. If too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, mix in a little more oats or chia.
5. Top with nuts, seeds, granola, banana slices, or dried fruit before serving. Enjoy cold or gently warmed.

Notes

• Use plain pumpkin puree for best flavor control—avoid pumpkin pie filling.
• Adjust sweetness and spice to taste before refrigerating.
• For a vegan version, use dairy-free milk and yogurt and maple syrup as the sweetener.
• Oats thicken as they rest—add milk in the morning if needed.
• Keep refrigerated and consume within 2–3 days for best texture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 jar (about 250g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 5mg