Pumpkin Protein Overnight Oats

A creamy, wholesome, and protein-packed breakfast, these Pumpkin Protein Overnight Oats are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall while fueling your day. With a blend of pumpkin puree, oats, protein powder, and warm spices, this make-ahead meal is both nourishing and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for busy mornings as it requires no cooking.

• Balanced with protein, fiber, and healthy fats for lasting energy.

• Customizable with different protein powders, toppings, and milk options.

• A delicious seasonal twist that makes breakfast feel indulgent yet healthy.

• Great for meal prep – can be made in batches for the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rolled oats

• Pumpkin puree

• Vanilla protein powder

• Chia seeds (optional, for added thickness and fiber)

• Pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon + nutmeg

• Milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)

• Maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)

• Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess and extra protein)

• Toppings: nuts, seeds, granola, or a drizzle of nut butter

Directions

1. In a jar or container, combine oats, protein powder, pumpkin puree, chia seeds, and pumpkin spice.

2. Pour in milk and stir until well combined.

3. Add maple syrup or honey if desired for sweetness.

4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

5. In the morning, stir well and top with Greek yogurt, nuts, or granola before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 serving.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Chilling time: 4–8 hours (overnight preferred)
Total time: 5 minutes active + chilling time

Variations

• Use chocolate protein powder for a chocolate-pumpkin twist.

• Replace milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

• Add mashed banana for natural sweetness.

• Stir in flax seeds or hemp seeds for additional nutrients.

• Layer with Greek yogurt for a parfait-style breakfast.

Storage/Reheating

• Store overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Not intended to be reheated, but can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

• If the mixture thickens too much, stir in an extra splash of milk before serving.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

No, steel-cut oats will not soften properly overnight without cooking. Rolled oats or quick oats are best.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply use plant-based protein powder, non-dairy milk, and skip Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free alternative.

Do I need to add sweetener?

No, sweetener is optional. The pumpkin puree and protein powder may provide enough flavor without it.

Can I make multiple servings at once?

Yes, prepare several jars at once for meal prep. They will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Will quick oats work in this recipe?

Yes, quick oats will work but will create a softer, less chewy texture.

Can I freeze overnight oats?

It is not recommended as the texture of the oats and pumpkin will change after thawing.

What type of protein powder works best?

A vanilla or unflavored protein powder works best, but you can experiment with different flavors.

Can I eat these warm?

Yes, although they are typically served cold, you can microwave them for 30–60 seconds if you prefer warm oats.

How can I make this thicker?

Add more chia seeds or reduce the milk for a thicker consistency.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, just cook and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth before using.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Protein Overnight Oats are a simple, nutritious, and flavorful breakfast that can be prepared ahead of time for busy mornings. With the rich taste of pumpkin and warming spices, this recipe brings the comfort of fall to your breakfast table while providing a boost of protein and energy to start your day right.

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