If you are looking for a warm, comforting breakfast that brings together the best of autumn flavors, the Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with Diced Apples, Pepitas, and Chia Seeds Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful dish captures the cozy essence of fall with creamy oats infused with pumpkin pie spice, naturally sweet banana, and the fresh crunch of diced apples, while pepitas and chia seeds add a satisfying nutty texture and nutritional boost. It’s a perfect way to start your day with wholesome ingredients that feel indulgent and nourishing all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, accessible, and each one plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and pleasant textures that make this dish so special. From the creamy oats to the crunchy pepitas, every element contributes to a breakfast you’ll want to make again and again.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: The hearty base that cooks up creamy and tender without turning mushy, perfect for soaking up all the spices and flavors.
- Oat milk (or milk of choice): Adds creaminess and helps the oats soften beautifully; oat milk keeps it naturally sweet and dairy-free.
- Banana: When cooked with oats, it adds a natural sweetness and creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Pumpkin pie spice: The star spice blend delivering warm, fragrant notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that evoke cozy autumn vibes.
- Diced apples: Fresh and slightly tart, these add bursts of juiciness and a bright contrast to the smooth oatmeal.
- Pepitas (pumpkin seeds): Crunchy, toasted pepitas provide a wonderful nutty flavor and a satisfying pop with every bite.
- Chia seeds: Tiny but mighty, chia seeds add body, a boost of fiber, and a subtle crunch, plus they’re packed with nutrients.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with Diced Apples, Pepitas, and Chia Seeds Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by placing the rolled oats, oat milk, banana chunks, and pumpkin pie spice into a small pot. This combination brings sweetness and spice together right from the start, setting the stage for that wonderful fall flavor.
Step 2: Cook Until Soft and Creamy
Heat the mixture over high heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to bubble—this usually takes about 2 minutes. Then turn the heat down to low or medium-low and let the oats gently bubble for around 6 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure your oatmeal cooks evenly. You’ll notice the oats absorbing the liquid and becoming thick and creamy.
Step 3: Transfer to a Serving Bowl
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and pour the wonderfully fragrant and thickened oatmeal into your favorite bowl. The kitchen will smell like a fall festival by this point!
Step 4: Add the Diced Apples, Pepitas, and Chia Seeds
The final step turns your bowl into a texture experience: sprinkle on diced apples for freshness, pepitas for crunch and nuttiness, and chia seeds for their subtle pop and superfood boost. These toppings elevate the oatmeal into a feast for both the eyes and palate.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with Diced Apples, Pepitas, and Chia Seeds Recipe
Garnishes
Add a touch of extra indulgence with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. You can even add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream to complement the spiced oats beautifully.
Side Dishes
This oatmeal pairs surprisingly well with a crisp apple or pear on the side to keep up the fresh fruit theme. A warm cup of chai or coffee rounds out the breakfast perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this oatmeal in a rustic bowl topped with a twist of orange zest or a few fresh berries. For a fun change, layer it with yogurt and granola in a clear glass for a gorgeous parfait that highlights the vivid colors and textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you want to prepare this Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with Diced Apples, Pepitas, and Chia Seeds Recipe in advance, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and meld even more beautifully after a night’s rest.
Freezing
Freezing this oatmeal is not recommended because the texture of the oats and the fresh toppings like apples may change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of oat milk to loosen it up if needed. Add your toppings fresh after reheating for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of milk?
Absolutely! While oat milk is wonderful for its natural sweetness and creaminess, you can substitute almond, soy, cow’s milk, or any preferred milk. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture, but the oatmeal will still be delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! This dish is naturally vegan if you use plant-based milk and skip any dairy toppings. It’s a fantastic vegan breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
You can easily make your own by mixing ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves. Even just cinnamon alone will give the oatmeal a lovely warm flavor.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with Diced Apples, Pepitas, and Chia Seeds Recipe makes one hearty serving, perfect for a nourishing solo breakfast or a light brunch.
Can I add other toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or a spoonful of nut butter. Each addition brings its own dimension to this already delicious oatmeal.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying out this Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with Diced Apples, Pepitas, and Chia Seeds Recipe whenever you want a cozy breakfast that’s as comforting as it is bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s so simple to make yet feels like a special treat—perfect for chilly mornings or whenever you need that warm, fall-inspired hug in a bowl.
Print
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with Diced Apples, Pepitas, and Chia Seeds Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal is a warm, nourishing breakfast perfect for chilly mornings. Made with old-fashioned rolled oats simmered in creamy oat milk, blended with ripe banana for natural sweetness, and seasoned with fragrant pumpkin pie spice, it’s a cozy bowl of fall flavors. Topped with crunchy pepitas, chia seeds, and diced apples, this oatmeal is both hearty and delicious.
Ingredients
Oatmeal
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup oat milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 banana, cut into chunks
- ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Toppings (Optional)
- Diced apples
- Pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- Chia seeds
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a small pot, combine the rolled oats, oat milk, banana chunks, and pumpkin pie spice, ensuring the ingredients are evenly mixed before cooking.
- Cook the oatmeal: Heat the mixture over high heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to bubble, approximately 2 minutes. Then reduce the heat to low or medium-low and let it gently simmer for 6 more minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Remove from heat: Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and carefully pour the oatmeal into a serving bowl.
- Add toppings: Enhance your oatmeal by adding optional toppings such as diced apples, crunchy pepitas, and nutritious chia seeds to add texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute oat milk with any milk of your choice, including dairy or plant-based alternatives like almond or soy milk.
- Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference.
- The banana adds natural sweetness which can reduce the need for additional sweeteners.
- For a smoother texture, mash the banana slightly before cooking.
- This recipe can be doubled or tripled for multiple servings.
