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Pumpkin pie overnight oats make busy fall mornings easier while giving you an excuse to eat something indulgent for breakfast. With a handful of wholesome ingredients and a single jar, you can prep this cozy treat in minutes and wake up to a creamy, pumpkin-spiced breakfast that tastes like your favorite dessert. I love this recipe for how it mixes convenience with real autumn comfort and warmth.
This was my fall lifesaver during my busiest work weeks. It turned my breakfast routine from rushed to something I actually look forward to and my family started asking for it by name before Halloween was even here.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: Provide chewy texture and fiber use old fashioned oats for best consistency
- Non dairy milk or regular milk: Keeps things creamy and luscious, unsweetened almond or oat milk is my top pick for subtle flavor
- Non dairy yogurt or regular yogurt (optional): For extra creaminess and protein, Greek style works great
- Pumpkin puree (not pie filling): Gives authentic pumpkin flavor, look for cans with pumpkin as the only ingredient
- Maple syrup: Natural sweetness that compliments pumpkin, select pure maple syrup for clean flavor
- Chia seeds: Help thicken the oats and boost omega 3s, choose fresh seeds for the best gelling power
- Vanilla extract: Lifts everything with bakery style aroma
- Pumpkin spice: A fragrant autumn spice blend, premade or homemade both work
- Ground cinnamon (optional): For extra warmth and depth
- Salt: A bit is essential to balance the sweetness
- Chopped pecans: For buttery crunch, look for unsalted
- Whipped cream (optional): Adds dessert vibes
- Granola: Choose a crunchy blend with warming spices for even more texture
Instructions
- Combine Everything in a Jar:
- Add oats, milk, yogurt if using, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla, pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and a small pinch of salt to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Seal lid and shake or stir thoroughly until mixed with no dry patches.
- Chill Overnight:
- Refrigerate jar for at least four hours, overnight is best. This allows oats to soften and flavors to meld. Chia seeds will plump and create a creamy texture.
- Stir and Adjust:
- In the morning, remove jar lid and stir oats well. If mixture is too thick, add a small splash of milk and mix until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Add Your Favorite Toppings:
- Enjoy straight from the jar or pour into a bowl. Top with chopped pecans, a dollop of whipped cream, an extra swirl of yogurt, or a handful of granola.
My favorite part is that first punch of pumpkin spice right as you open the jar. It reminds me of baking pie with my grandmother who was an expert at sneaking pumpkin into just about anything.
Storage Tips
Store oats tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days. I keep a few jars ready so breakfast is always on hand. If you plan to add toppings, skip those until serving to keep them crisp and fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap rolled oats for quick oats if you like a softer texture. For added protein, stir in a scoop of protein powder. Use honey or date syrup in place of maple syrup and top with seeds instead of nuts for a nut free option. You can use coconut yogurt for the tang without any dairy.
Serving Suggestions
These oats are perfect enjoyed cold right out of the jar but if you are craving extra warmth, gently microwave them before topping. Add fresh apple slices for crunch or swirl in a spoonful of almond butter for richness.
Cultural and Historical Notes
Overnight oats have become a go to breakfast in the US because of their ease and versatility, but this pumpkin spice version really shines during autumn. Pumpkin is a classic ingredient of North American fall cooking with traditions going back centuries, especially when blended into sweet pies and breakfast treats.
Seasonal Adaptations
Switch pumpkin puree for mashed roasted sweet potato in late winter. Add a bit of ginger and nutmeg for deeper spice in colder months. Top with fresh cranberries and orange zest around Thanksgiving. You will find that these tweaks keep the recipe exciting as the season changes.
Success Stories
I have gifted jars of these oats to new parents and neighbors and the feedback is always enthusiastic. My sister calls them magical and says they were the first breakfast her picky toddler finished without protest. If you crave pumpkin flavor that is actually wholesome, this is your recipe.
Freezer Meal Conversion
These oats do not freeze quite as well since the texture can become watery but you can prep the dry oat base in advance in small jars or bags. Then add pumpkin, milk, and yogurt the night before you want to eat for ultimate convenience.
Try these oats for your fall mornings and see how quickly breakfast becomes the day’s highlight. A little prep brings big autumn flavor without extra work.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use regular milk and yogurt instead of non-dairy options?
Yes, both dairy and non-dairy milk or yogurt work well. Choose your favorite based on preference or dietary needs.
- → How long do the oats need to soak?
A minimum of 4 hours is recommended, but overnight soaking delivers the best creamy texture.
- → What are the best toppings for this breakfast?
Top with chopped pecans, granola, a dollop of yogurt, or a swirl of whipped cream for extra flavor and crunch.
- → How long can I store overnight oats in the fridge?
They are freshest within 24 hours but can stay sealed and refrigerated for up to 2–3 days.
- → Can I leave out the chia seeds?
Chia seeds help thicken the oats, but you can omit them if needed. The mixture will still be tasty, just slightly less thick.