Overnight Pumpkin Oats Dairy Free Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the cozy flavors of fall with the convenience of overnight oats, making my mornings both delicious and stress-free. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like chia seeds and pumpkin puree, giving me the energy I need to conquer the day while still indulging in a treat that feels like a hug in a bowl!

When I imagine a breakfast full of nutrients, my Overnight Pumpkin Oats come to mind. This dairy-free delight is made by blending 1 cup of rolled oats with 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk and 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree.

I love to add a tablespoon of chia seeds, for the extra fiber and omega-3s they provide, along with maple syrup and pumpkin pie spice for a flavor profile that just feels like fall. This dish is definitely breakfast-appropriate; it is also entirely good for you.

Ingredients

Oats that are rolled: They are fiber-rich.

They assist in digestion.

They enable a person to feel full for a longer time.

Almond milk unsweetened: a low-calorie, dairy-free milk base rich in vitamin E.

Pureed pumpkin: Adds a natural sweetness and creaminess that disguises the taste of the not-so-sweet, not-so-cream ingredients.

Chia seeds: Full of omega-3s and proteins, possess a nutrient boost.

Pure maple syrup: A sweetener straight from nature, with remarkable health benefits.

Spice for the pumpkin pie: An aromatic mixture; deepens the flavors with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other dairy-free milk)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• Pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, seeds, additional maple syrup

Instructions

1. In a bowl or jar of medium size, the rolled oats and chia seeds should be mixed together.

2. The oat mixture should have the following added: pumpkin puree, unsweetened almond milk, and maple syrup.

3. Add in the vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and a tiny bit of salt.

4. Thoroughly mix all ingredients until well mixed and combined.

5. A lid or plastic wrap should be used to cover the bowl or jar.

6. Refrigerate the mix and allow it to rest overnight, or for a duration of 6-8 hours as a minimum.

7. In the morning, stir well to redistribute the ingredients and make your oats uniform.

8. Portion the oats into serving bowls or containers.

9. Add any desired toppings, such as chopped nuts, seeds, or another drizzle of maple syrup, to finish.

10. Serve chilled; if you like them warm, heat them for a few seconds in the microwave. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Medium-sized bowl or jar
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Spoon or spatula for mixing
5. Lid or plastic wrap
6. Refrigerator
7. Serving bowls or containers
8. Microwave (optional, for warming)

FAQ

• Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?For this overnight preparation, it’s best to use rolled oats because they have a uniform texture and don’t require as much liquid or time to soften as steel-cut oats do.
• Is there a substitute for chia seeds?Chia seeds assist in thickening the mixture and contribute nutrients. If you require a substitute, ground flaxseed can serve a similar function.
• Can I use sweetened almond milk?Certainly! However, you might prefer to lessen or leave out the maple syrup in order to keep the oats from being excessively sweet.
• How long can I store the pumpkin oats?The refrigerated oatmeal has a shelf life of 3-4 days. Stir before serving. If it thickens, as it is guaranteed to do, consider adding a splash of milk and warming it up before serving.
• What other toppings work well besides nuts and seeds?Additional toppings can add an extra kick of flavor and texture. Try these:

  – Fresh fruits like banana slices, dried cranberries, or coconut flakes

• Can I make a larger batch for meal prep?Certainly! Just increase the quantities of the components by the number of portions you wish to produce, and keep them in individual containers for easy access.
• Is this recipe vegan?Indeed, the recipe is vegan since it incorporates milk made from plants and contains no products from animals.

Substitutions and Variations

Rolled oats: Use quick oats or steel-cut oats as a substitute (however, the texture will differ).
Almond milk, unsweetened: Substitute with coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
Pureed pumpkin: Substitute with sweet potato puree or mashed bananas.
Agave syrup or honey (if not strictly vegan) could be used as substitutes for maple syrup.
Substitute pumpkin pie spice with a mixture of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Oats Before mixing, lightly toast the rolled oats in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds a subtle nuttiness to your overnight oats.

2. Spice Boost For an extra kick, add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or a dash of ground ginger along with the pumpkin pie spice. This will intensify the autumnal flavors.

3. Creamier Texture If you prefer a creamier consistency, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt when mixing the ingredients. It adds richness without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.

4. Sweetness Adjustment Adjust the sweetness to your taste by adding an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or a sprinkle of brown sugar if needed. Remember that the sweetness can also be adjusted with toppings like dried fruits or banana slices.

5. Texture Contrast Mix in a handful of toasted nuts or seeds just before serving to add a satisfying crunch. Roasted pecans or pumpkin seeds work particularly well and complement the pumpkin spice flavor.