I started making pumpkin spice overnight oats as a way to hold onto the fall season a little longer. The mornings are cooler, and that warm, spiced aroma just feels right in the quiet dawn hours. Plus, they’re a no-fuss breakfast that doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort, even when life gets hectic.
Why I Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
It’s a breakfast that feels indulgent yet simple. The aroma of pumpkin and spices waking up in the fridge makes mornings easier. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—swap ingredients or toppings based on what’s in the pantry or what mood I’m in. It’s a fall staple that never gets old.
Breaking Down the Pumpkin Spice Ingredients
- Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give a chewy texture that holds up well overnight.
- Pumpkin purée: Rich and bright, it adds moisture and a subtle earthy sweetness.
- Cinnamon and spices: The warmth of cinnamon is core; nutmeg and ginger add depth and a spicy kick.
- Maple syrup: Sweetens naturally, balancing the earthiness of pumpkin.
- Milk: Use whatever you like—dairy or plant-based—for creaminess and moisture.
- Yogurt or nuts (optional toppings): Adds a tangy or crunchy finish, elevating the dish.
Tools of the Trade for Pumpkin Spice Oats
- Mixing bowl: To combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient ratios.
- Jar or airtight container: To store and soak the oats overnight.
- Spoon or stirrer: To mix ingredients thoroughly.
Crafting the Perfect Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix the oats, pumpkin purée, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
Step 2: Add the milk and maple syrup. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything’s coated evenly.
Step 3: Pour the mixture into a jar or container with a lid. Seal tightly.
Step 4: Refrigerate overnight, at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
Cooking Checkpoints & Tips to Keep in Mind
- Make sure oats are fully submerged in liquid for even soaking.
- The mixture should smell fragrant and pumpkin-y before refrigerating.
- When ready, the oats should be soft but not mushy, with a slight chew.
- If the oats look dry after soaking, stir in a splash more milk before serving.
Common Pitfalls and How to Dodge Them
- Oats turned out dry and crunchy.? USE too little liquid, oats stay dry—add a splash more milk or water.
- Too mushy after soaking.? OVER-COOKING oats slightly can make them mushy—soaking is key, avoid heating.
- Uneven spice distribution.? NOT mixing the spices evenly? Sprinkle more cinnamon and pumpkin until fragrant.
- Tasting bland or underdeveloped.? Refrigerate overnight, not just an hour, for the flavors to deepen.
Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats
Equipment
- Jar or airtight container
- Spoon or stirrer
Ingredients
- 1 cups old-fashioned rolled oats chewy texture that holds up overnight
- 0.5 cups pumpkin purée adds moisture and earthy sweetness
- 1 teaspoons cinnamon warm spice
- 0.5 teaspoons nutmeg adds depth
- 0.5 teaspoons ginger spicy kick
- 1 tablespoons maple syrup natural sweetness
- 1 cups milk dairy or plant-based
- 0.25 cups yogurt or nuts optional toppings for added texture and flavor
Instructions
- Combine the oats, pumpkin purée, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl, stirring until the mixture is evenly blended and fragrant.
- Add the milk and maple syrup to the bowl, stirring thoroughly to coat all the oats and ingredients evenly. The mixture should look creamy and slightly thickened.
- Transfer the mixture into a jar or airtight container, using a spoon or spatula to scrape out every bit. Seal the container tightly.
- Place the container in the refrigerator and let it soak overnight, ideally for at least 8 hours. The oats will absorb the flavors and soften to a chewy, tender texture.
- Once ready, give the oats a gentle stir. If they seem a bit dry, stir in a splash more milk to loosen the consistency.
- Spoon the overnight oats into bowls, top with your favorite extras like yogurt or nuts, and enjoy the cozy, spiced breakfast with a soft, chewy texture and fragrant aroma.











