Try this fall favorite - high-protein overnight pumpkin oats! This is an awesome vegan breakfast to wake up to, and it's super customizable. It's the perfect breakfast for those on-the-go mornings or when you want to start the day on a healthy note without compromising on taste.
Imagine waking up to a jar full of creamy overnight oats soaked in pumpkin-spice-infused almond milk, accented with maple syrup and delicious toppings. This dish is like having dessert for breakfast, but it's packed with nutrients to kickstart your day. It's ideal for those busy mornings or when you want to bring a touch of autumn to your breakfast table.
You can, of course, still have it even if it's not pumpkin season, or try High-Protein Vegan Banana Cream Pie Overnight Oats or Vegan Blueberry Overnight Oats with Raspberry Chia Jam for variety.
Jump to:
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- In addition to being delicious, overnight oats are the epitome of convenience.
- Just a few minutes of prep the night before, and you've got yourself a nutritious breakfast that you can literally grab as you walk out the door.
- Plus, they're incredibly versatile. Switch up the flavors, nuts, or fruits, and you have a whole new dish every day.
Ingredient Overview
Here is a picture overview of this culinary dream team. For quantities, see the recipe card.
Ingredient Notes
- Adding protein powder to your overnight oats is perfect for those who are active, short on time, or want to ensure they get balanced nutrition right from the start of the day. They come in various flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and even unique ones like matcha.
- Vegan protein powders are derived from different plant-based sources like pea protein, rice protein, hemp protein, and more. Not all vegan protein powders are created equal, and each source has its unique texture and nutrient profile.
- Check the ingredient list for artificial sweeteners, flavors, or preservatives. If you're aiming for a natural and clean recipe, look for protein powders that are free from additives.
- Non-vegan and vegan protein powders occasionally have a gritty or chalky texture. If you encounter this issue, consider creating a smooth paste by pre-mixing a small amount of liquid with the protein powder before adding it to your oats. This simple step might help give you a more pleasant and satisfying texture.
- If you want more information on protein on a plant-based diet, visit Forks Over Knives.
- Make sure to get raw rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats).
- Also make sure to get pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling...ask me how I know.
- Use pumpkin pie spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- Add optional toppings such as chopped pecans, chia seeds, a dollop of coconut yogurt
How To Make High-Protein Overnight Pumpkin Oats
If you enjoy pictures, here is the tasty slideshow for this recipe. See the recipe card for details.
Step 1: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well incorporated, and you've got a smooth, creamy base.
Step 2: Stir in the pumpkin pie spice, protein powder, and a pinch of salt. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference.
Step 3: Add your rolled oats to the wet mixture. Stir well to ensure that the oats are fully coated with the pumpkin-spiced goodness. Divide the mixture between two small mason jars or airtight containers. Seal them up and place them in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Let the oats soak in the fridge for at least 4-6 hours, but ideally, overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the oats to soften, soaking up all the liquid. Go-to toppings are chopped pecans with sliced banana and a sprinkle of hemp seeds. See below for more.
Topping Ideas
Here's a list of toppings to elevate your oat game by adding more flavor, texture, and extra nutrients.
- Toasted Pecans: Adds crunch and a buttery flavor.
- Chia Seeds: A little omega-3 boost and more fiber.
- Coconut Yogurt: For creaminess.
- Vegan Greek Yogurt: For more deliciousness.
- Fresh Berries: Blueberries or raspberries add color and antioxidants.
- Banana Slices: For natural sweetness.
- Almond Butter or Peanut Butter: For a rich, nutty flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Because why not? Life's short.
- Granola: For some extra crunch.
- Pomegranate Seeds: Sweet, tart, and they look fancy!
- Hemp Seeds: For an extra protein kick.
- Cacao Nibs: For that choco-kick without the guilt.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Well, it is a pumpkin-themed recipe!
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: If you're feeling extra sweet.
- Sprinkle of Ground Cinnamon: Because you can never have enough.
Top Tips
- Consistency Check: Before sealing your jar, make sure the mixture is a little liquidy as the oats will absorb the liquid.
- Protein Powder: Don't go overboard with the protein powder. I find that if I add a little too much, it starts to taste like chalky oats. I do a little less than a scoop for this whole recipe but adjust for your preferences.
- Stir Before Eating: Oats can settle at the bottom, so give it a good stir before digging in.
- Meal Prep: Make 3-4 days worth during the weekend for a hassle-free, nutritious morning start.
- Texture: If you find it too thick in the morning, add a splash of oat milk to loosen it up (or any plant-based milk will be fine).
Substitutions
- Milk: Any plant-based milk like oat, soy, or cashew milk will work.
- Sweeteners: Agave nectar or stevia can replace maple syrup.
- Spices: If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, you can mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
- Oats: You can use steel-cut oats for a chewier texture, but you should extend the soaking time to about 10 hours.
Variations
- Swap out pumpkin puree for mashed banana and add a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
- Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey take. While you are there, add some vegan chocolate chips!
- Mix in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for added richness.
- Add a layer of mixed berries at the bottom and use berry-flavored protein powder.
- Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or a shot of espresso and chocolate protein powder for a caffeinated kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Parfait: Layer your overnight oats with toppings like coconut yogurt and fresh fruit for a fancier presentation.
- For Guests: If serving to guests, set up an "Oats Toppings Bar" for a customized breakfast experience.
- Instagram Chef: Dish it into bowls, then sprinkle your toppings in neat little rows for that "Instagram chef" look.
FAQS
They're best eaten within 3 days but can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Yes, you can warm them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds if you prefer a hot breakfast. This may change the texture a bit but it's still delicious.
Yes, but they'll have a softer texture.
No, it's optional but recommended for this recipe.
Yes, but always read labels and opt for certified gluten-free oats.
More Delicious Vegan Breakfast Recipes
What did you think?
Got a minute? I'd love for you to dive into the comments and rate these High-Protein Overnight Pumpkin Oats . Your feedback is invaluable—did you love it? Did you make any fun twists? Let me know how my directions worked for you so I can keep improving my recipes. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration.
Recipe
High-Protein Overnight Pumpkin Oats
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Try this fall favorite - high-protein overnight pumpkin oats! This is an awesome meal to wake up to, and it's super customizable and dairy-free. It's the perfect vegan breakfast for those on-the-go mornings or when you want to start the day on a healthy note without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary)
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
- 1 scoop to a little less than a scoop of plant-based protein powder
- A pinch of salt
Toppings (see the post for more suggestions)
- toasted pecans
- chia seeds,
- coconut yogurt
- sliced bananas
Instructions
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add Protein Powder and Spices: Stir in the protein powder, making sure there are no lumps. Follow this by adding in the pumpkin spice and a pinch of salt. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Combine with Oats: Pour your rolled oats into the wet mixture and give it a good stir. Ensure the oats are well-coated with the pumpkin and protein-infused liquid.
- Let It Sit: Divide your mixture between two small mason jars or airtight containers. Seal and place them in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, to allow the oats to soften and the flavors to meld.
- The Final Touch: When you're ready to eat, give your overnight oats a good stir and add any optional toppings like toasted pecans, chia seeds, or a dollop of coconut yogurt.
Notes
Vanilla or unflavored protein powder works best.
Before sealing your jar, make sure the mixture is a little liquidy, as the oats will absorb the liquid.
Don't go overboard with the protein powder. If I add a little too much, it starts to taste like chalky oats. I do less than a scoop for this recipe, but adjust for your preferences.
Oats can settle at the bottom, so give it a good stir before digging in.
Make 3-4 days worth during the weekend for a hassle-free, nutritious morning start.
If you find it too thick in the morning, add almond milk to loosen it up.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Overnight Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Rob says
I love these. The pumpkin flavor is rich, and the texture is great.
Rob says
I tried the High-Protein Overnight Pumpkin Oats from Nuts and Twigs and absolutely loved it! The blend of pumpkin and spices was perfect, and the protein boost was a great start to my day.