Oatmeal is mixed with pumpkin puree and seasonal warming spices like cinnamon for a filling fall breakfast.
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It’s that time of year when pumpkin makes its way into everything, and I’m all for it (starting with the popular pumpkin spice latte, of course). This cozy pumpkin spiced oatmeal is my favorite way to bring those warm fall flavors to the breakfast table. Made with real pumpkin purée and a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, it’s creamy, comforting, and full of seasonal flavor. Best of all, it comes together easily on the stovetop for a quick, nourishing breakfast that tastes like fall in every bite. Big fan of these flavors? Try making these pumpkin waffles with cream cheese filling!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Recipe
Cozy fall flavor. Made with real pumpkin purée and warming spices for that perfect autumn comfort.
Quick & easy. Comes together in under 15 minutes for a simple weekday breakfast.
Customizable toppings. Add toasted nuts, maple syrup, or a dollop of yogurt to make it your own.
Key Ingredients in This Recipe
Pumpkin pie seasoning – Pumpkin pie seasoning also known as pumpkin pie spice is a fragrant combination made with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger.
Pumpkin puree – Pumpkin puree, also known as canned pumpkin is made from roasted pumpkin that has been blended to a smooth consistency. They are made with no additional ingredients apart from pumpkin so it is also easy to create your own from roasted, blended pumpkin.
Oats – I use old-fashioned also called rolled oats in this recipe. They absorb more liquid and cook faster than steel-cut oats and add the perfect texture to this oatmeal. Don’t use quick cooking oats they will become mushy in this recipe.
Salt – Adding a pinch of salt actually helps to bring out the other flavors in this oatmeal recipe.
A full ingredient list with exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Other Toppings for Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal
While I love topping the oatmeal with a splash of milk, brown sugar, walnuts and cinnamon try these other toppings:
Other nuts like almonds or pecans
Maple syrup for added sweetness that complements pumpkin spice
A pinch of ground nutmeg
Swaps and Substitutions
Oats: You can use steel-cut oats but you will need to increase the cooking time and liquid needed. Steel-cut oats typically take about 25–30 minutes to cook.
Dairy-free: To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the butter for a neutral oil like canola oil and swap the milk on top with a non-dairy alternative like oat milk, soy milk or almond milk.
Vanilla: Try adding 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the oats for added flavor.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal (Step-by-step)
Step 1: Toast the oats. Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the butter and allow to melt. Add the oats and pumpkin pie seasoning to the pan stirring occasionally, until the oats are toasted, about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Make the oatmeal. Stir in the salt and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil then reduce to medium-low heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender, about 15 minutes. Add the pumpkin puree and stir to combine.
Step 3: Assemble and serve. Divide among bowls and top with a splash of milk, walnuts, brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water to loosen it up before serving.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water to loosen it up before serving.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and liquid. Steel-cut oats typically take about 25–30 minutes to cook and will have a chewier texture.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?
It’s best to use plain pumpkin purée! Pumpkin pie filling already has sugar and spices added, which can make the oatmeal overly sweet.
How can I make this pumpkin spice oatmeal dairy-free?
Swap the milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk for a creamy plant-based version. You can use a neutral oil to toast the oats instead of butter.
What toppings go well with pumpkin oatmeal?
I like to add a splash of milk, some brown sugar and walnuts but you can also top the oatmeal with other nuts like almonds or pecans, maple syrup or a pinch of ground nutmeg.
Other Recipes to Try
If you enjoy this pumpkin oatmeal recipe, I recommend checking out some of these:
Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the butter and allow to melt. Add the oats and pumpkin pie seasoning to the pan stirring occasionally, until the oats are toasted, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the salt and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil then reduce to medium-low heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Add the pumpkin puree and stir to combine.
Divide among bowls and top with a splash of milk, walnuts, brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon.
Notes:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water to loosen it up before serving.
Another family favorite. I made this every morning for my daughter when she was postpartum last fall. We add chocolate chips just to push this one over the top! So glad it’s pumpkin season again 🧡
Makes me so so happy Christa! I love that you were able to share this with your daughter at such a special time. Agreed, so glad it’s pumpkin season again!
Another family favorite. I made this every morning for my daughter when she was postpartum last fall. We add chocolate chips just to push this one over the top! So glad it’s pumpkin season again 🧡
Makes me so so happy Christa! I love that you were able to share this with your daughter at such a special time. Agreed, so glad it’s pumpkin season again!