Wholesome and Easy Protein Overnight Pumpkin Oats (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

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Give your breakfast a makeover with this easy protein-rich overnight pumpkin oats recipe. It takes minutes to prepare and is perfect hot or cold.

Cool days, changing leaves…it feels unmistakably like October here in Pennsylvania, and naturally time for yet another pumpkin recipe. This time, I thought I’d give breakfast a little seasonal makeover by bringing you this easy vegan pumpkin overnight oats recipe.

This overnight oats recipe is full of flavor from rich, sweet spices, creamy and nourishing from canned pumpkin and almond milk. The combination makes for some delicious and healthy comfort food. To give it an extra boost, I experimented with pea protein isolate, which is a natural way to add more protein to your breakfast without eggs or meat.

Why Use Pea Protein?

I was skeptical about pea protein at first because as someone with gut issues when I think peas, I think discomfort. Now, of course, I realize I’m an outlier and not everyone feels this way, but still, if you’re sensitive to legumes you know what I mean.

But pea protein is actually different and well tolerated in the recommended amounts. It doesn’t cause bloating or gas like peas can in sensitive stomachs. Pea protein isolate is made by using yellow peas and isolating the protein from the pea through a filtration system. What you’re left with is protein but none of the other bothersome side effects. So it’s an excellent way to get more protein into your diet. But enough technical stuff, let’s get to these pumpkin overnight oats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. It’s vegan and gluten-free
2. Protein-rich, healthy and nutritious
3. Perfect make-ahead breakfast
4. Ideal for meal-prep for the week
5. Can be eaten hot or cold

For Your Shopping List

Gluten-Free Rolled Oats – Most rolled oats are not certified gluten-free so be sure to check the container. Most are clearly labeled as such.

Pumpkin Puree – Canned pumpkin is perfect to use in this recipe. Be sure to look for plain pumpkin, not the one that’s ready for pumpkin pie.

Cinnamon, Cardamom, Ginger, and Pumpkin Spice – Warming spices add flavor and depth to the pumpkin oatmeal.

Maple Syrup – I find maple syrup to be the best sweetener in this recipe but honey or agave nectar would also work.

Vanilla Extract – A little bit goes a long way for additional flavor.

Almond Milk – If you prefer oat milk or any kind of other plant milk, that will work too. I also like unsweetened vanilla almond milk for this recipe.

Pea Protein Isolate – this is certainly not a requirement but a fantastic way to get more protein in the diet.

Toppings – I like to add bananas, walnuts, cacao nibs, and coconut flakes but you can add whatever toppings you’d like.

Let’s Make It

Step 1. Add all ingredients to a large mason jar, cover tightly, and mix very well. Store protein pumpkin oatmeal overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2. You can eat the oatmeal cold if you’d like or warm it up in either the microwave or on the stovetop. Serve it in a bowl with additional almond milk, bananas, walnuts, and any other toppings you’d like.

FAQs + Top Tips

What’s The Difference Between Gluten-Free And Regular Oats?

Technically oats are gluten-free by nature but are often processed in the same facilities as gluten, barley, and rye. So If you are gluten-intolerant or have Celiac disease, look for certified gluten-free oats.

Can You Use Canned Sweet Potato Instead Of Pumpkin?

Sometimes canned pumpkin is only available during the Fall season. If that’s the case, you can use canned butternut squash or canned sweet potato as well. Or make your own pumpkin puree.

Can You Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice Mix?

You can as it is very easy to make. All you need are 5 ingredients and you can grab the recipe here.

Can Overnight Oats Store For Longer?

Overnight oats can store in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.

What Should You Store Pumpkin Overnight Oats In?

The best containers for these protein overnight oats are glass jars with lids. Avoid storing in plastic if possible and go for glass.

Are Overnight Oats Good For Breakfast Meal-Prep?

You can double or even triple the recipe and make a big batch for meal-prepping and have breakfast for the entire week.

Can Overnight Oats Be Heated?

If you’re in a rush, straight out of the fridge is fine, but if you have a few minutes, I recommend heating them up and serving them with your favorite toppings. You can warm them on the stovetop or the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

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