Pumpkin Spice Latte Oats

Last autumn my neighbor brought over a jar of homemade pumpkin pie spice blend she had mixed up. I stirred it into my usual oatmeal the next morning along with some leftover coffee and absolutely fell in love. Now it is the only way I want oats during pumpkin season.

My sister came over recently looking exhausted after a night shift. I made her a bowl and she sat at my counter closing her eyes with every spoonful. She asked for the recipe before even finishing her coffee.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats: Old fashioned oats give the best creamy texture here. Quick oats work too but steel cut take too long.
• 2 cups milk: Any milk works beautifully. I usually use oat milk but whole milk makes it extra luxurious.
• 1/2 cup pumpkin purée: Make sure it is plain pumpkin not pie filling. leftovers freeze perfectly in ice cube trays.
• 1/2 cup strong coffee or 1 shot espresso: This is what makes it taste like your favorite latte. Brew it fresh if you can.
• 2 tbsp maple syrup: Adjust up or down depending on your sweet tooth. Honey works too.
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: The warm spice blend that makes everything taste like fall. Cinnamon alone works in a pinch.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Do not skip this. It rounds out all the flavors beautifully.
• Pinch of salt: Just a tiny pinch makes everything taste more like itself.

Instructions

Mix everything together:

Throw the oats milk pumpkin coffee maple syrup spices vanilla and salt into your saucepan. No need to pre mix anything.

Bring to a gentle simmer:

Turn the heat to medium and stir often until you see little bubbles around the edges.

Cook until creamy:

Let it bubble gently for seven to ten minutes. The oats should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.

Portion into bowls:

Scoop everything into two bowls. Top with whatever makes you happy.

Save

This has become my go to when friends stay over. I set out toppings in little bowls and let everyone build their own. It feels fancy but takes almost no effort.

Make Ahead Your Way

Overnight oats work beautifully here. Mix everything in a jar the night before and skip the cooking entirely. The texture will be different but just as delicious.

Spice It Up or Down

Some mornings I want double the spice. Other times just a hint of cinnamon. Keep tasting as you go and adjust until it hits exactly right for your mood.

Topping Ideas That Work

The toppings are where this becomes yours completely. I have tried so many combinations and love seeing what everyone chooses.

• Chocolate chips turn this into mocha oats instantly
• A spoonful of peanut butter makes it extra filling
• Coconut flakes add the best subtle sweetness

Save

Warm spiced and just a little bit buzzy from the coffee. This is what cozy autumn mornings taste like at my house.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use plant-based milk with the oats?

Yes, plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk works well and keeps the dish vegan-friendly.

→ What spices are used for the flavor in these oats?

A blend of pumpkin pie spice including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves adds warmth and depth.

→ How can I make the coffee flavor stronger?

Using a shot of espresso instead of brewed coffee intensifies the coffee notes in the oats.

→ Are there any suggested toppings to enhance the dish?

Greek yogurt or whipped cream, chopped pecans or walnuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup complement the oats beautifully.

→ Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian and can be made vegan by choosing plant-based milk and omitting dairy toppings.