Pumpkin pie steel cut oatmeal is a warm, hearty breakfast that combines the creaminess of oats with the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie. Packed with chia seeds, raisins, maple syrup, and toasted pecans, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying—perfect for chilly mornings in the fall or winter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A healthy breakfast that tastes like dessert.
- High in fiber and protein thanks to oats, chia seeds, and nuts.
- Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and raisins.
- Easy to make ahead for meal prep.
- Customizable with endless topping options.

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 ¼ cups water or milk of choice (plus more if needed)
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- ¾ cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¼ cup raisins
- 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1–2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup raw pecans, toasted
Optional toppings: plain Greek or coconut yogurt, nut butter, pumpkin seeds, maple syrup, extra spices
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large pot, bring water or milk to a boil.
- Add oats and chia seeds, stirring well. Reduce heat to a simmer.
- Stir in pumpkin, raisins, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Simmer, stirring frequently, until liquid is absorbed (about 20 minutes). Add more liquid if needed for desired consistency.
- While oats cook, spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 7 minutes, until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Once oatmeal is cooked, let rest for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Serve into bowls, topped with toasted pecans and any additional toppings.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Overnight oatmeal: Soak oats, chia seeds, and pumpkin mixture overnight, then reheat in the morning.
- Extra protein: Stir in protein powder, Greek yogurt, or a scoop of collagen powder.
- Nut-free option: Replace pecans with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
- Fruit boost: Add diced apples, pears, or cranberries while cooking.
- Creamier version: Use coconut milk or oat milk for a rich texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to loosen.
- Freeze in single portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of steel cut oats?
Yes, but the cooking time will be much shorter (about 5–7 minutes).
Do I need to soak steel cut oats before cooking?
No, but soaking overnight can reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
Can I make this in the slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 6–8 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, roasted and pureed pumpkin works well. Be sure it’s smooth.
How do I keep oatmeal from sticking to the pot?
Stir frequently and use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching.
Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes, omit maple syrup or replace with a sugar-free sweetener.
How do I toast pecans without an oven?
Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring often.
What milk works best for this recipe?
Any milk works—dairy, almond, oat, or coconut milk all add different flavors.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pot and increase cooking time slightly.
What can I serve with pumpkin pie oatmeal?
It pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of nut butter.
Conclusion
Pumpkin pie steel cut oatmeal is a cozy, nutritious breakfast that delivers the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie in a healthy bowl. With toasted pecans, warm spices, and creamy oats, it’s a satisfying way to start your day and makes a perfect meal prep option for busy mornings.
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Pumpkin Pie Steel Cut Oatmeal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Pumpkin pie steel cut oatmeal is a cozy and nourishing breakfast that combines creamy oats with pumpkin puree, warm spices, raisins, and maple syrup. Topped with toasted pecans, this hearty fall-inspired dish is high in fiber and protein, naturally sweetened, and perfect for meal prep or chilly mornings.
Ingredients
2 ¼ cups water or milk of choice (plus more if needed)
1 cup steel cut oats
¼ cup chia seeds
¾ cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
¼ cup raisins
1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1–2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (to taste)
Pinch of salt
1 cup raw pecans, toasted
Optional toppings: plain Greek or coconut yogurt, nut butter, pumpkin seeds, maple syrup, extra spices
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water or milk to a boil.
- Add oats and chia seeds, stirring well. Reduce heat to a simmer.
- Stir in pumpkin, raisins, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and salt. Simmer about 20 minutes, stirring often, until liquid is absorbed. Add more liquid if needed.
- While oats cook, spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 7 minutes until fragrant. Watch closely.
- Let oatmeal rest 5 minutes to thicken.
- Spoon into bowls and top with toasted pecans and desired toppings.
Notes
- Use coconut milk or oat milk for a creamier version.
- Stir in protein powder or Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Replace pecans with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
- Make overnight oats by soaking oats and chia seeds with pumpkin mixture overnight.
- Add diced apples, pears, or cranberries while cooking for extra fruit flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg