PUMPKIN OVERNIGHT OATS
If you need more convincing, I think a conversation about the benefits of overnight oats is in order.
These pumpkin overnight oats are:
● Quick and easy to make
● Great for those who meal prep
● A healthy breakfast option
These pumpkin overnight oats are a great source of protein. Not only that, but they are also made with:
Greek yogurt – a healthy probiotic that is great to include in your diet,
Pumpkin puree – as opposed to pumpkin pie filling that is filled with processed ingredients and sugars, is healthy and good for you,
Chia seeds – a nutritional powerhouse
Pure maple syrup, and your favorite Fall spices
WHY CHIA SEEDS?
Chia seeds have been a superfood staple for a few years now. But why do so many in the “health food” space rely on these seeds? The short answer is for extra protein and texture. But more in-depth:
● Chia seeds are packed with essential nutrients including calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
● They add extra protein and fiber to your meals.
● Chia seeds contain omega 3 fatty acids.
● And they keep you satisfied for a longer period of time. Which means you don’t get cravings or the need to munch on something unhealthy.
● Chia seeds are low in calories.
MAKING THE PUMPKIN OVERNIGHT OATS
Before telling you how to make pumpkin oatmeal, here are some general tips for the best overnight oats results.
● Use rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats). Compared to rolled oats, which are nice and thick, quick-cooking oats are much more broken down and processed. Quick cooking oats are made to cook fast so they’ll turn to mush if left overnight or longer in liquid whereas rolled oats will hold up and absorb the liquid.
● Alternately, steel cut oats don’t work well in overnight oats either. This is because they are too thick. So, they won’t break down or absorb the liquid the same way as rolled oats.
● Do you need to cook overnight oats? Nope, you don’t need to cook overnight oats. Allowing them to sit overnight in the fridge will give the oats time to absorb the liquids and flavors. You add raw oats, spices, and flavors in the beginning, but you’re left with an oatmeal texture in the morning. No need to cook at all!
YOU WILL NEED:
● 1/2 cup rolled oats, uncooked
● 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
● 2 tbsp plain greek yogurt (or coconut milk for a dairy free option)
● 1/4 cup organic pumpkin puree
● 1 tbsp chia seeds
● 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
● 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
● 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
● 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
● Toppings: chopped pecans, pepitas, and/or cinnamon
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all the ingredients listed in the healthy pumpkin oatmeal recipe.
Transfer the ingredients to a mason jar or an airtight container.
Seal the container or cover with plastic wrap.
Place in fridge for 4-6 hours minimum. However, this is not called overnight pumpkin oatmeal for no reason so it is best to refrigerate the oatmeal overnight.
When you’re ready to eat, remove from the fridge and indulge in the delicious pumpkin and pumpkin spice flavors of your healthy overnight oats.
We hope you enjoy this delicious breakfast (or snack) as much as we do! Tis the season!