Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy Overnight Pumpkin Pie Steel Cut Oats?
This is a nutritious and satisfying breakfast recipe that combines steel cut oats with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin and maple syrup, designed to be prepped in advance.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The ingredients include 1/3 cup steel cut oats, 2 tablespoons cooked pumpkin, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon flax seeds, 1/2 cup water, and optional milk for serving.
Can I meal prep the dry ingredients?
Yes, you can add the steel cut oats, flax seeds, and pumpkin pie spice into pint canning jars and store them in a dry cupboard ahead of time.
How do I prepare the oats the night before?
Heat 1/2 cup of water until warm, pour it into the jar with dry ingredients, pumpkin, and syrup, seal the lid, and refrigerate overnight.
What temperature should the water be when added?
The water should be heated to a warm, tea-like temperature, but not boiling.
Can I use a microwave to prep the liquid?
Yes, you can combine the water, cooked pumpkin, and maple syrup in a microwave-safe container and heat for about 2 minutes before adding to the oats.
How do I serve the oats in the morning?
Remove the jar from the fridge, add 1 tablespoon of milk or a milk alternative, and microwave for 90 seconds, stirring halfway through.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, the recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you use a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk for serving.
What type of oats should be used?
This recipe specifically uses 1/3 cup of uncooked steel cut oats for their unique texture.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of cooked pumpkin?
The recipe calls for pureed or mashed cooked pumpkin; pumpkin pie filling may contain extra sugars and spices not intended for this specific balance.
What are some suggested toppings?
Optional toppings include coconut, dried fruit, nuts, or fresh berries.
How much pumpkin pie spice is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice.
What is the purpose of adding flax seeds?
Flax seeds add extra fiber and nutrients to your breakfast.
Can I eat these oats cold?
While the recipe suggests heating them in the morning for a creamy texture, some people enjoy the convenience of eating them cold.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The measurements provided are for one serving.
What is the best way to store the jars?
Dry jars should be stored in a cool, dry cupboard, while soaked jars must be kept in the refrigerator.
Do I need to stir the mixture before refrigerating?
Yes, after adding the warm liquid, gently shake or stir the jar to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
What kind of sweetener works best?
The recipe recommends using 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup.
How long do the oats need to soak?
The oats should soak in the refrigerator overnight to allow them to soften properly.
Can I use rolled oats instead?
This recipe is specifically calibrated for steel cut oats; rolled oats would have a different texture and may become too mushy with this method.
Is this a high-fiber breakfast?
Yes, the combination of steel cut oats, pumpkin, and flax seeds provides a significant amount of fiber.
What jar size is recommended?
Pint-sized canning jars are recommended for this recipe.
Do I need to cook the pumpkin first?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of already cooked pumpkin, which can be canned or freshly roasted puree.
Can I add protein powder?
You can stir in protein powder in the morning, but you may need to add an extra splash of milk to maintain the creamy consistency.
What if I don't have pumpkin pie spice?
You can substitute it with a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Steel cut oats are naturally gluten-free, but check for certified gluten-free labels if you have a severe allergy.
How much maple syrup should I use?
The recipe suggests 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup.
Can I use half and half?
Yes, using half and half will result in a much creamier texture.
Is the flax seed ground or whole?
The ingredient list specifies 1 teaspoon of whole flax seeds.
Can I prepare this in a bowl instead of a jar?
Yes, any airtight container will work as long as it is microwave-safe for the morning reheating step.