Quick Pumpkin Oatmeal | Simply Quinoa

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make these easy pumpkin oats. Scroll down to the recipe card to find the ingredient quantities and recipe instructions.

• Oats – I use old-fashioned or rolled oats, which are more satisfying than quick oats thanks to their heartier texture. (Prefer steel-cut oats? Try my Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal!)
• Pumpkin puree – You can make your own or use canned pumpkin. Just make sure it’s not canned pumpkin pie filling.
• Lite coconut milk – You can use another dairy-free milk if you prefer.
• Water – This helps you get just the right consistency.
• Chia seeds –These thicken up the porridge for a super creamy texture.
• Maple syrup – As much (or as little) as you want for sweetness. If you’re not vegan, honey works too.
• Cinnamon – Pumpkin pie spice or cardamom would also work if you want to try something different.

How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal

Once you have your ingredients and a small saucepan, it’s quick and easy to bring this creamy oatmeal to life.

• Combine. Stir together all of the ingredients (except your garnishes) in a small saucepan.
• Cook. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook until the oatmeal reaches your desired thickness.
• Serve. Divide into bowls and garnish as desired.

Topping Ideas For This Oatmeal

This pumpkin oatmeal has warming and seasonal flavors that pair well with all kinds of toppings. Some of my favorite oatmeal toppings toppings are:

• Sliced banana
• Chopped pecans or walnuts
• A sprinkle of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice
• A drizzle of maple syrup
• Crunchy homemade granola
• Brown sugar for extra sweetness
• Toasted pumpkin seeds
• Coconut yogurt

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

If you don’t have everything on the ingredient list, you can make a few simple swaps. Or add a mix-in to amp up the flavor and texture of your pumpkin oats.

• Add protein powder. I recommend vanilla or unflavored for this recipe.
• Stir in dried fruit. Raisins or dried cranberries would be lovely for added sweetness and texture.
• More flavoring. Add a dash of vanilla extract or almond extract.
• Swap the pumpkin. You can use mashed sweet potato or butternut squash instead of pumpkin if you have leftovers.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Transfer the pumpkin oatmeal to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze this oatmeal in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat: Warm up leftovers in the microwave or in a pan on the stovetop over medium-low heat. You might need to add a splash of water to loosen it up.