Pumpkin Overnight Oats is a cozy and convenient breakfast that’s perfect for fall or any time you want a sweet, healthy start. Creamy oats soak up the flavors of pumpkin puree, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of maple syrup, making every bite taste like a gentle hug in a bowl.
I love making these oats the night before because I can just grab them from the fridge in the morning and go. It feels like a little treat first thing in the day without any rush or fuss, and the pumpkin gives it a nice boost of natural sweetness and nutrients. Sometimes I stir in some chopped nuts or a sprinkle of granola for a bit of crunch—totally optional, but so good!
One of my favorite ways to enjoy pumpkin overnight oats is with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a handful of fresh berries on top. It makes the whole thing feel bright and fresh, balancing the creamy pumpkin perfectly. Plus, it’s a great way to wake up slow and easy while still feeling nourished and satisfied.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best since they soak up liquid and soften overnight without turning mushy. If you want a gluten-free option, just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Pumpkin puree: Canned pumpkin is super convenient and consistent, but fresh pumpkin puree works great too if you roast and mash it yourself. Avoid pumpkin pie filling since it has added sugar and spices.
Milk: I like using almond or oat milk for a creamy texture and subtle flavor. Feel free to substitute any milk you prefer, even dairy milk or coconut milk, depending on your taste or diet.
Greek yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. For a dairy-free choice, try coconut or soy yogurt. You can skip it if you want, but your oats will be less creamy.
Maple syrup or honey: These natural sweeteners balance the pumpkin’s earthiness. Adjust sweetness to your liking or use agave syrup or a sugar substitute.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are must-haves here for that classic pumpkin flavor. A pinch of ginger adds a nice warmth but can be left out if you’re not a fan.
How Do You Make Overnight Oats Soft and Delicious?
The secret to perfect overnight oats is giving the oats and chia seeds enough time to soak up the liquid so they become tender but still hold their shape.
- Mix your dry ingredients first, like oats, chia seeds, and spices. This helps them blend evenly.
- Add your wet ingredients—pumpkin, milk, yogurt, sweetener—and stir well to combine everything.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for creaminess and flavor melding.
- In the morning, stir well. If oats seem too thick, add a splash of milk and stir again for your preferred texture.
- Add your toppings just before eating, so nuts and seeds stay crunchy.
Taking time to refrigerate overnight is what makes the texture so creamy and enjoyable without any cooking involved!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mason jars or small glass containers – perfect for mixing and storing individual servings, plus they’re easy to grab on busy mornings.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helpful to get your oat, pumpkin, and spice amounts just right for balanced flavor.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring the ingredients well and scraping the sides of your jar or bowl.
- Refrigerator – essential to chill the oats overnight so they soften and the flavors blend nicely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pumpkin for sweet potato puree for a slightly sweeter, earthier taste when pumpkin isn’t handy.
- Add a tablespoon of nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew) for extra creaminess and protein boost.
- Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of natural sweetness and chewy texture.
- Top with shredded coconut or dark chocolate chips to make it a little more indulgent and fun.
How to Make Pumpkin Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Toppings (optional but delicious):
- Whipped cream or extra yogurt
- Chopped pecans
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sprinkle of cinnamon
Time Needed:
This recipe takes just 10 minutes to mix everything together. Then, you’ll refrigerate it overnight (or at least 4 hours) to let the oats soak up all the wonderful flavors and soften. Perfect for a quick and tasty breakfast the next morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, stir together the rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first helps even out the flavors.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the pumpkin puree, milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir it thoroughly until everything is blended well.
3. Refrigerate:
Cover the jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in your fridge. Let it sit overnight or for at least 4 hours so the oats and chia seeds can soak and become soft and creamy.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk to get your desired texture. Spoon into a glass or bowl, then top with whipped cream or extra Greek yogurt. Sprinkle chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, and a dash of cinnamon on top for a tasty crunch.
Enjoy your cozy, healthy pumpkin overnight oats as a nourishing start to your day!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While instant oats can work in a pinch, they tend to get mushy overnight. Rolled oats hold their texture better and give a creamier, more satisfying bite.
Can I Make Pumpkin Overnight Oats Without Yogurt?
Yes! You can skip the yogurt if you prefer or need a dairy-free option. Just add a little extra milk to maintain creaminess, or try a plant-based yogurt alternative.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Pumpkin overnight oats keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them covered tightly and stir before serving—add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much.
Can I Prep Multiple Servings at Once?
Absolutely! These oats store well in individual jars or containers, making them perfect for meal prepping. Just multiply the ingredients and portion into your containers for grab-and-go breakfasts all week long.
