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Healthy Pumpkin Protein Overnight Oats Recipe with Crunchy Pepita Clusters for Easy Breakfast

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A creamy, hearty overnight oats recipe combining pumpkin puree, protein powder, and warming spices, topped with crunchy toasted pepita clusters for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (90 g) rolled oats (old-fashioned)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) pumpkin puree (plain canned pumpkin)
  • 1 scoop (about 30 g) vanilla protein powder (plant-based or whey)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk of choice (unsweetened almond, oat, or dairy milk)
  • ¼ cup (60 g) Greek yogurt (optional, can substitute dairy-free yogurt)
  • 12 tablespoons (1530 ml) maple syrup (or honey/agave syrup)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • a pinch of nutmeg
  • a pinch of salt
  • For the crunchy topping:
  • ½ cup (60 g) pepitas (pumpkin seeds), raw or shelled
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • a pinch of sea salt flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl or large mason jar, combine 1 cup (90 g) rolled oats, ½ cup (120 ml) pumpkin puree, and 1 scoop (about 30 g) vanilla protein powder. Stir well to break up any clumps of protein powder (about 3 minutes).
  2. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) milk of choice and ¼ cup (60 g) Greek yogurt if using. Add 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) maple syrup, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground ginger, a pinch of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and uniform (2-3 minutes).
  3. Cover the bowl or seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow oats to soak and soften.
  4. While oats soak, toast ½ cup (60 g) raw pepitas in a small skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Drizzle 1 tablespoon (15 ml) maple syrup and sprinkle ½ teaspoon cinnamon over the seeds. Stir to coat, then press pepitas into small clusters using a spatula. Toast for an additional 2-3 minutes until caramelized and sticky. Remove from heat and let cool completely to harden into crunchy clusters.
  5. In the morning, stir the oats well. If too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen. Spoon oats into serving bowls or jars and top generously with the crunchy pepita clusters. Optionally, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup before serving.

Notes

Whisk protein powder with milk before adding to oats to avoid clumps. Add pepita clusters just before serving to keep them crunchy. Use certified gluten-free oats for gluten-free diet. Can substitute pumpkin puree with butternut squash or sweet potato puree. Rolled oats preferred over instant oats for texture. Store pepita clusters separately in airtight container for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, protein, overnight oats, healthy breakfast, pepita clusters, autumn, easy breakfast, creamy oats, vegan option, gluten-free