Let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast: Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats! Seriously, there’s nothing better on a chilly morning than a warm bowl of these hearty oats. The rich, creamy texture combined with the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices just wraps you in a comforting hug. I remember the first time I made them; the smell filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! They’re not just delicious; they’re packed with nutrients and keep me full for hours. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them a regular part of your morning routine!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup steel cut oats: These hearty oats have a nutty flavor and chewy texture, making them the perfect base for this cozy breakfast.
- 4 cups water: This will help cook the oats to that creamy consistency we all love.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: Adds a rich, velvety texture and that delightful pumpkin flavor that’s essential for this dish.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: A warm blend of spices that brings all the cozy vibes; think cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: For a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- 1/2 cup milk of choice: Whether you prefer almond, oat, or dairy, this will add creaminess to your oats.
How to Prepare Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats
Making Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats is super simple and oh-so-rewarding! Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping these up every week. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot. I love using a pot with a lid to speed things up!
- Once the water is bubbling away, add in 1 cup of steel cut oats and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Give it a little stir to combine.
- Now, reduce the heat to low and let the oats simmer. This is where the magic happens! You’ll want to let them cook for about 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender but still chewy.
- After the oats have simmered, it’s time to mix in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Oh wow, the smell is heavenly! Stir it all together until well combined.
- Next, add in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 1/2 cup of your favorite milk. This will create that creamy texture we all love. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
- Once it’s ready, serve it warm in your favorite bowl and maybe sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top for a finishing touch!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the numbers, I want to mention that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this as a general guideline rather than precise values. Here’s the typical nutritional information for one serving (about 1 cup) of my delicious Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 10g
So, there you have it! These oats are not only hearty and filling but also a great way to start your day with a healthy boost!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cozy Flavors: The warm spices and pumpkin create a comforting bowl that feels like a hug on a chilly morning.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber and protein, these oats keep you full and energized throughout the day.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to make it your own!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These oats store well, so you can prepare a batch and enjoy them all week long!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats turn out just right, here are a few tips I swear by. First, don’t rush the cooking process! Letting the oats simmer for the full 20-30 minutes is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture. If you like your oats creamier, feel free to add a little more milk towards the end of cooking. Also, adjust the sweetness to your taste—some days I want it sweeter, and other days, I go easy on the maple syrup. And don’t forget about toppings! Chopped nuts or dried fruits not only add a delightful crunch but also boost the nutritional value. Finally, if you’re making a big batch, double-check the consistency when reheating. Just add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it gets too thick! Trust me, these little tweaks make a big difference!
Variations of Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats
One of the best things about Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats is how easy it is to switch things up! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations to try:
- Nutty Delight: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and added healthy fats. Toasting the nuts beforehand brings out their flavor even more!
- Fruit Fusion: Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet burst of flavor. Fresh slices of banana or apple also work wonders!
- Spice It Up: If you want to take the flavor to the next level, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla extract. It adds a lovely depth to the dish.
- Chocolate Lover: For a special treat, mix in some dark chocolate chips as the oats finish cooking. The melting chocolate creates a decadent twist!
- Maple Pecan: Swap the maple syrup for a splash of caramel sauce and top with toasted pecans for a sweet and nutty combination!
These variations not only enhance the flavor but also keep breakfast interesting, so you’ll never get bored!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), storing your Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats is super easy. Just let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 4 to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If they’ve thickened up in the fridge, just add a splash of milk or water while reheating to get that creamy consistency back. Trust me, they’re just as delicious the next day!
FAQ Section
Can I use instant oats instead of steel cut oats?
While you can use instant oats, they won’t give you the same hearty texture and chewiness that steel cut oats provide. If you’re short on time, you might want to try rolled oats instead, but keep in mind the cooking time will be much shorter!
How can I make these oats vegan?
To make Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats vegan, simply replace the milk with your favorite plant-based milk, like almond, oat, or coconut. Also, you can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar for a completely vegan-friendly breakfast!
Can I freeze leftover oats?
Absolutely! Just let your oats cool completely, then portion them into individual servings and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat!
What toppings do you recommend?
I love topping my Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats with fresh fruits like sliced bananas or apples, a sprinkle of nuts for crunch, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup. Dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, also add a sweet touch and chewiness!
Can I make these oats in advance?
Yes! You can make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat as needed. They’re perfect for busy mornings when you want something comforting and delicious!
For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out this breakfast category on our site!
Print
Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats: 5 Cozy Breakfast Benefits
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and hearty breakfast featuring steel cut oats with pumpkin spice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 cup milk of choice
Instructions
- Boil water in a pot.
- Add steel cut oats and salt.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Stir in pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
- Add maple syrup and milk, mix well.
- Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Top with nuts or dried fruits if desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats, breakfast, healthy oats