Pumpkin Overnight Oats are a cozy and easy breakfast that brings together creamy oats, pumpkin puree, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of sweet maple syrup. They’re smooth, filling, and just lightly spiced, making them perfect for chilly mornings or anytime you want a little comfort in a jar.
I love making these the night before because all the flavors get to blend and soak into the oats while I sleep. When I wake up, it feels like the oats are ready to give me a warm hug. I usually top mine with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or some crunchy granola for a little bite. It’s such a simple way to start the day feeling calm and cozy.
One fun tip is to play around with add-ins like raisins, a spoonful of yogurt, or a drizzle of honey. Pumpkin Overnight Oats are easy to tweak depending on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re in the mood for. I always keep a batch in the fridge in fall because it makes busy mornings a little sweeter and a lot easier.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats soak up liquid well and soften overnight. Steel-cut oats won’t work as well here without extra soaking time. You can use gluten-free oats if needed.
Pumpkin Puree: Use pure canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling with added sugar and spices. If fresh pumpkin is available, roast and puree it for a fresh taste.
Milk: I like using almond or oat milk for a creamy texture and mild flavor. Dairy milk works too. For a thicker oats texture, use less milk.
Chia Seeds: These help thicken the oats while adding nutrition. If you don’t have chia, you can add a little more oats or skip them, but the texture will change slightly.
Sweetener: Maple syrup adds a lovely flavor with pumpkin. Honey is a good substitute. Adjust sweetness to taste or replace with a sugar-free option.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring that classic pumpkin flavor. Pumpkin pie spice is optional but adds warmth. If you prefer, add a pinch of ginger or cloves for extra depth.
How Can I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture for Overnight Oats?
Getting the right creamy texture is the trick to loving overnight oats. Here’s what helps:
- Use rolled oats for good absorption and softness overnight.
- Add chia seeds—they soak up liquid and make things smooth and thick.
- Mix everything well before refrigerating so oats and chia seeds start soaking evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, ideally overnight, to let oats soften fully.
- If oats seem too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk to loosen to your liking.
- Adding a dollop of yogurt on top adds creaminess and a nice tang.
These tips help create that perfect balance between creamy and textured, making your pumpkin oats tasty and satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mason jar or a small airtight container – perfect for mixing and storing your oats overnight.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of oats, pumpkin, and spices every time.
- Spoon or small whisk – to mix all the ingredients smoothly.
- Refrigerator – essential for letting your oats soak and thicken overnight.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree for a slightly sweeter and earthier taste.
- Mix in a scoop of vanilla or plain yogurt for extra creaminess and a tangy kick.
- Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of natural sweetness and chew.
- Sprinkle chopped dark chocolate or cacao nibs on top for a bit of indulgence and texture contrast.
How to Make Pumpkin Overnight Oats?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or soy milk)
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (optional)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Topping:
- Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt (a dollop)
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- A light dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just about 10 minutes to prepare before refrigerating. Then, you’ll let it chill for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, so the oats and chia seeds can soften and soak up all those lovely pumpkin flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir them together so everything is evenly mixed.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the pumpkin puree, milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir well until all the ingredients are blended and the oats are coated with the pumpkin mixture.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your bowl or jar tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. This gives the oats time to soak up the liquid and thicken into a creamy texture.
4. Final Stir & Adjust:
In the morning, take the oats out and give them a good stir. If they seem too thick, add a splash of milk and stir until they reach your perfect consistency.
5. Serve with Toppings:
Spoon the oats into a serving bowl or glass. Top with a generous dollop of Greek or coconut yogurt, chopped pecans or walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for a warm and cozy finish.
6. Enjoy:
Enjoy your pumpkin overnight oats chilled or at room temperature—a delicious and healthy way to start your day!
Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin Puree?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or gently warm it in the microwave before mixing it into your oats.
Can I Make Pumpkin Overnight Oats Without Chia Seeds?
Absolutely! Chia seeds help thicken and add nutrition, but if you don’t have them, simply increase the oats a bit or add a little extra milk to get your desired texture.
How Long Will Pumpkin Overnight Oats Keep in the Fridge?
They stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Just give them a good stir before eating and add a splash of milk if needed to loosen.
Can I Prepare More Than One Serving at a Time?
Definitely! Multiply the ingredients and store individual portions in separate jars or containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
