Start your day with a warm bowl of Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal, a cozy breakfast that combines the flavors of fall with creamy oats and real pumpkin. Topped with crunchy pecans, granola, and a drizzle of nut butter, this recipe is the perfect way to embrace pumpkin season.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: Provides a hearty, nutritious base that absorbs flavors well.
- Pumpkin puree: Adds natural sweetness, creamy texture, and seasonal flavor.
- Milk & vanilla yogurt: Ensures creaminess, balancing the spices with a smooth, rich taste.
- Pumpkin pie spice & vanilla extract: Enhances the warm, cozy flavors reminiscent of fall.
- Brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the pumpkin.
- Chopped pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty richness.
- Granola & bananas: Provides texture contrast and natural sweetness.
- Nut butter: Offers a nutty flavor boost, making the oatmeal more filling.
Alternative Ingredients
- Steel-cut oats: For a chewier texture and heartier bite.
- Sweet potato puree: A rich, earthy substitute for pumpkin with a similar consistency.
- Almond or coconut milk: For a dairy-free, subtly nutty flavor.
- Cinnamon or cardamom: Swap or add to the spice mix for a different warm spice profile.
- Honey or maple syrup: A natural alternative to brown sugar, adding a lighter sweetness.
- Walnuts or almonds: For a different nutty crunch with a slightly different flavor profile.
- Dried cranberries or raisins: Add a tart, chewy contrast to the creamy oats.
- Coconut flakes: For a tropical twist and extra texture.
Detailed Steps
Cook the Oats: Stir the Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal frequently to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking. For a thicker consistency, try using less milk or simmering a bit longer. If you’re short on time, quick oats are a great alternative.
Add Flavorings: If you love a stronger spice flavor, consider adding an extra pinch of cinnamon. Stir the vanilla extract in at the very end to keep its flavor robust and aromatic.
Stir in Yogurt: Always remove the oatmeal from the heat before stirring in the yogurt to prevent it from curdling. For a dairy-free version, plant-based yogurt works just as well.
Serve with Toppings: For added sweetness and creaminess, top with sliced bananas and a drizzle of nut butter. Toasted pecans or granola provide a nice crunch, and a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the overall flavor.
Optional Extras: Boost the nutritional value by adding chia seeds or flaxseeds while cooking. Dried cranberries or a handful of shredded coconut offer a tasty, textural contrast.
Expert Tips
Pumpkin Puree: For a more intense pumpkin flavor, roast fresh pumpkin instead of using canned puree. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Choosing the Right Oats: Rolled oats are used for their creamy texture and quick cooking time. While any type of oats can be used, rolled oats are preferred for a balance of texture and ease. Steel-cut oats yield a nuttier texture but require more time and liquid, and quick oats cook fastest, resulting in a smoother, softer consistency.
Add Flavorings: Add the vanilla extract off the heat to preserve its full flavor. If you prefer a spicier oatmeal, increase the pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of ground ginger.
Make Ahead: If you’re short on time in the morning, follow my instructions to make these oats overnight for a quick and convenient breakfast in the morning.
FAQs
Yes, you can mix in protein powder, or add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or nut butter to boost the protein content.
Absolutely, I have directions on how to make this recipe overnight in the recipe card below.
You can, but steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly.
Absolutely! You can sweeten the oatmeal with mashed ripe bananas, applesauce, or a splash of maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
For thicker oatmeal, reduce the amount of milk or cook longer. For thinner oatmeal, add more milk during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Top your Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal with maple syrup, fresh fruit, and nut butter. Pair it with chai tea, and for a festive touch, serve it in a hollowed-out pumpkin. Enjoy with crispy bacon or sprinkle crushed graham crackers for a pie-like finish.
Storage Suggestions
Store Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to restore its creamy texture. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat, adding a bit of milk or water to prevent it from drying out.
You’ll also enjoy:
- Cottage Cheese Egg Bites
- Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls
- Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
- Apple Cider Overnight Oats
- Quick Morning Oats
Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
Equipment
- Chefs knife (for slicing the banana)
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup real pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup milk of your choice (almond, oat, or dairy)
- 1/4 cup vanilla yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans
Toppings:
- granola
- sliced bananas
- almond or peanut butter
- dark chocolate chips
Instructions
Stove Top:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup real pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup milk of your choice
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently fold in the vanilla yogurt for added creaminess.1/4 cup vanilla yogurt
- Spoon the oats into a bowl and top with sliced bananas, granola for crunch, and chopped pecans. Drizzle with almond or peanut butter if desired.
- For added texture and flavor, you can also top with a dollop of extra vanilla yogurt or a few dark chocolate chips.
Overnight Oats:
- In a mason jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin puree, milk, vanilla yogurt, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup real pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup milk of your choice, 1/4 cup vanilla yogurt, 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Fold in the chopped pecans for a nice crunch in every bite. If you prefer a more layered effect, add half of the oat mixture, then a layer of pecans, and top with the remaining oat mixture.2 tbsp chopped pecans
- Seal the jar or cover the bowl, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the oats soak up all the flavors.
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir, and top with sliced bananas, granola for crunch, and a drizzle of almond or peanut butter for a nutty flavor boost.
- For added texture and flavor, you can also top it with a dollop of extra vanilla yogurt or a few dark chocolate chips.
Video
@cookinglikekate Start your day off with a warm bowl of Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal, a cozy breakfast that combines the flavors of fall woth creamy oats and real pumpkin ! Full recipe at CookingLikeKate.com #pumpkinseason #pumpkinspice #fyp #pumpkinideas ♬ Relaxed (Sped Up) – MC Mablo Dos Paredões
Notes
- Stir Frequently: Prevent sticking by stirring often.
- Add Vanilla Last: Mix in vanilla off the heat for best flavor.
- Adjust Thickness: Add more milk if the oatmeal is too thick.
- Toast Nuts: Toast pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
- Customize Toppings: Use your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds.
Nutrition
Disclaimer: I am a health and wellness coach with a degree in health science from Arizona State University. However, I am not a doctor or registered dietitian. Any information or advice provided on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have a medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice or a substitute for it.
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