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Creamy Pumpkin Protein Overnight Oats with Candied Pecans

creamy pumpkin protein overnight oats - featured image

A quick and easy creamy pumpkin protein overnight oats recipe topped with crunchy candied pecans, perfect for busy fall mornings and packed with nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (90g) rolled oats (old-fashioned)
  • ½ cup (120g) pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
  • 1 scoop (~30g) protein powder (vanilla-flavored whey or plant-based)
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk)
  • ¼ cup (60g) Greek yogurt (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (60g) candied pecans (toasted pecans coated in brown sugar and a pinch of salt)
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for candied pecans)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for candied pecans)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the candied pecans: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until bubbly. Add ½ cup (60g) pecans, stir to coat, and cook for 3-4 minutes until toasted and caramelized. Transfer to parchment paper to cool.
  2. Mix the oats and pumpkin base: In your bowl or jar, combine 1 cup (90g) rolled oats, ½ cup (120g) pumpkin puree, and 1 scoop (~30g) protein powder. Stir until well blended.
  3. Add liquids and flavorings: Pour in 1 cup (240ml) milk of choice and ¼ cup (60g) Greek yogurt if using. Add 2 tablespoons (30ml) maple syrup, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  4. Refrigerate overnight: Cover the bowl or seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
  5. Serve topped with candied pecans: Stir the oats before serving and sprinkle with the cooled candied pecans.

Notes

For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Maple syrup can be swapped with honey or agave. To avoid clumps, mix protein powder with milk before adding other ingredients. Keep a close eye on pecans while candying to avoid burning. Stir oats well before refrigerating. Add extra milk in the morning if oats are too thick. Candied pecans can be replaced with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for nut-free option. Vegan version uses plant-based protein powder, non-dairy milk, and coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, protein, overnight oats, candied pecans, fall breakfast, healthy, quick, easy, gluten-free option, vegan option