Easy Pumpkin Oatmeal

This warm and cozy Pumpkin Oatmeal is the ultimate fall breakfast, and it’s so easy to make! Hearty, delicious, and a perfect way to use up any leftover pumpkin puree, it’s the kind of meal that makes you excited to get out of bed in the morning.

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a breakfast staple in our home and this Easy Pumpkin Oatmeal is a family favorite—especially during the fall months. Here are a few reasons why your family will love it as much as we do:

• Quick – Ready in just 10 minutes!
• Simple – Only 5 ingredients and no added sweeteners
• Kid-Friendly – Easy for little ones to help with and enjoy
• Customizable – Let each family member customize their bowl
• Great for Meal Prep – Make it ahead and reheat for busy mornings or try the overnight version below!

Canned pumpkin is a real kitchen superhero – super versatile and a great way to add extra goodness to your meals, whether you’re cooking for the little ones or yourself.

My kids absolutely love this pumpkin banana bread, healthy pumpkin banana muffins, pumpkin oatmeal pancakes, and pumpkin balls.

Related: Healthy Pumpkin Recipes

Ingredients

• Oats – rolled oats or old-fashioned oats will work best.
• Pumpkin puree – be sure to use canned pumpkin puree, NOT pumpkin pie filling! It’s a great source of vitamin A and fiber. You can also use homemade pumpkin puree.
• Milk – adds a creamy texture and richness to the oatmeal as well as a healthy dose of protein, fat, and calcium. I like to use whole milk (especially for toddlers) or full-fat canned coconut milk.
• Pumpkin pie spice – use store-bought blend or make your own, which I share in my healthy pumpkin cookies recipe. You can also just use cinnamon if it’s all you have.
• Salt – will bring out all the flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-free? be sure to look for the certified gluten-free oats
• Dairy-free? you can use any of your favorite milks, like unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk
• Nut-free? instead of topping with pecans or walnuts, sprinkle some pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, or chia seeds.
• Instant or quick cooking oats – use less liquid and shorter cooking time.
• Steel-cut oats – add more liquid and cook for longer. Here’s how to cook steel cut oats 4 ways.

How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal on the Stove

1. Add oats, milk, water, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes.

Microwave Pumpkin Oatmeal

1. In a large microwave-safe bowl or mug, combine 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/3 cup (80g) pumpkin puree, 2/3 cup milk, 1 beaten egg (opitonal), 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice.
2. Microwave on high for 1 1/2 min, stir, and microwave for another 30-45 seconds, until desired consistency is achieved. 
3. Stir in chopped pecans, and maple syrup to taste.

Here’s how to make ANY microwave oatmeal (with eggs!)

Overnight Pumpkin Oatmeal

1. In a jar or container, combine 1 cup of oats, 1 cup milk of choice, 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 2 tablespoons chia seeds, 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey), and 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
2. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) so the oats can soak up the liquid and soften.
3. Right before eating, give it a stir and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy cold or heat it up if you prefer a warm breakfast!

You can also add banana too – check out this banana overnight oats recipe!

Serving Suggestions

Here’s where the fun begins! Set up a topping bar or let everyone choose their favorite add-ins for this delicious fall breakfast:

• Nuts – add some crunch and healthy fats by sprinkling chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top.
• Seeds – chia seeds, flaxseeds, or pumpkin seeds (pepitas) provide extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Fresh fruit – top with sliced bananas or apples. See my guide on apples for babies on safe prep and other ideas.
• Dried fruits – raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots.
• Maple syrup – drizzle pure maple syrup for sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• Yogurt – a dollop of Greek yogurt or regular yogurt can add creaminess and a tangy contrast.
• Crushed graham crackers – you have to try this homemade graham cracker recipe!
• Chocolate chips – the combination of chocolate and pumpkin is delightful!
• Nut butter – drizzle almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter over your oatmeal for added richness and creaminess. Use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
• Granola – add some crunch with a sprinkle of your favorite granola. Here’s a homemade no added sugar granola you must try!

Storage

Transfer to an airtight container or mason jars and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Reheat in the microwave (in 30 second intervals) or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or water.

More Oatmeal Recipes

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Baked Peach Oatmeal (No Added Sugar)

Soft Baked Banana Oatmeal Bars

No Bake Oatmeal Balls (with Peanut Butter)

Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!