Pumpkin Pie Protein Overnight Oats – A Cozy, Make-Ahead Breakfast

Pumpkin Pie Protein Overnight Oats taste like dessert but work like a balanced breakfast. They’re creamy, cozy, and ready when you are—no stove required. Mix everything the night before, and you’ll have a fall-inspired bowl waiting in the fridge.

It’s a simple way to add more protein and fiber without fuss. Whether you’re rushing out the door or easing into the morning, this one checks all the boxes.

Why This Recipe Works

• Protein-packed and satisfying: Protein powder and Greek yogurt keep you full longer and support muscle recovery.
• Perfect texture: Rolled oats soak up milk and pumpkin for a thick, spoonable consistency.
• Warm spice flavor: Pumpkin pie spice brings those nostalgic fall notes without needing a pie crust.
• Make-ahead convenience: Stir it together in minutes, then let the fridge do the work.
• Customizable: Adjust sweetness, add toppings, or switch milks to fit your preferences.

What You’ll Need

• Old-fashioned rolled oats (1/2 cup)
• Milk of choice (1/2–3/4 cup; dairy, almond, oat, or soy)
• Pumpkin puree (1/3 cup; not pumpkin pie filling)
• Vanilla or unflavored protein powder (1 scoop; about 20–25 g protein)
• Plain Greek yogurt (1/4 cup; optional for extra creaminess and protein)
• Chia seeds (1 tablespoon; helps thicken and adds omega-3s)
• Pumpkin pie spice (1 teaspoon) or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon)
• Maple syrup or honey (1–2 tablespoons, to taste)
• Pinch of salt (brings out the flavors)
• Toppings (optional): chopped pecans or walnuts, pumpkin seeds, a spoonful of almond butter, raisins, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the base: In a jar or bowl, add oats, chia seeds, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
2. Add the wet ingredients: Pour in milk, pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt (if using), maple syrup, and vanilla.

   Stir until smooth and no dry pockets remain.

3. Adjust consistency: If it looks very thick, add a bit more milk. It should be pourable but not watery.
4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
5. Finish and serve: In the morning, give it a stir. Add a splash of milk if needed.

   Top with nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of maple syrup and enjoy cold—or warm it gently in the microwave if you like.

Keeping It Fresh

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Batch prep: Make 2–3 jars at once for an easy weekday breakfast rotation.
• Stir before eating: Oats and chia thicken as they sit; a quick stir and a splash of milk refresh the texture.
• Add toppings last: Nuts and seeds stay crisp if added right before serving.

Why This is Good for You

• Protein for energy and satiety: Protein powder and Greek yogurt help keep you full and support muscle health.
• Fiber-rich: Oats, pumpkin, and chia provide fiber for digestion and steady energy.
• Vitamins and minerals: Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and potassium; chia adds omega-3s and calcium.
• Balanced macros: Carbs from oats, protein from dairy and powder, and healthy fats from chia create a steady, satisfying breakfast.

What Not to Do

• Don’t use pumpkin pie filling: It’s pre-sweetened and spiced, which can make the oats cloying and throw off the texture.
• Don’t skip the salt: A tiny pinch brightens the pumpkin and spice flavors.
• Don’t add toppings too early: Nuts and seeds get soft if they sit overnight in the jar.
• Don’t guess the liquid: Too little milk leads to chalky oats; too much makes them soupy. Start with 1/2 cup and adjust.

Alternatives

• Dairy-free: Use almond, oat, or soy milk; swap Greek yogurt for a coconut or almond yogurt.
• No protein powder: Add an extra 1/4 cup Greek yogurt and 1 tablespoon nut butter for protein and creaminess.
• Gluten-free: Choose certified gluten-free oats.
• Lower sugar: Skip maple syrup and sweeten with mashed banana or a few drops of liquid stevia.
• Extra crunch: Add toasted pecans or pumpkin seeds just before serving.
• Spice swap: Use cinnamon only, or add cardamom for a twist.

FAQ

Can I heat these oats?

Yes. Warm them in a microwave-safe bowl in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each, until they’re just heated through.

Add a splash of milk if they thicken too much.

What type of protein powder works best?

A smooth, mild whey or plant-based vanilla powder works well. If your powder is very sweet or thick, reduce the maple syrup or add a bit more milk.

Can I make this without chia seeds?

Yes. The oats will still set, but they’ll be slightly looser.

Reduce milk by 1–2 tablespoons or add a bit more yogurt to keep it creamy.

How do I prevent clumps from the protein powder?

Whisk the dry ingredients together first, then add liquids. If needed, use a small whisk or shake everything in a jar with a tight lid.

Is canned pumpkin the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No. Use 100% pumpkin puree.

Pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices, which can overpower the recipe.

Wrapping Up

Pumpkin Pie Protein Overnight Oats give you a cozy, fall-flavored breakfast without any morning hassle. They’re creamy, nourishing, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Mix a jar tonight, and wake up to something that tastes like dessert but fuels your day.