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Creamy Pumpkin Oatmeal

This pumpkin oatmeal combines hearty old-fashioned oats with velvety pumpkin puree and warming spices, creating a cozy, orange-hued breakfast with a smooth, creamy texture. Simmered gently until thickened and fragrant, it’s perfect for a nourishing start to your day, topped with nuts or yogurt for added crunch and flavor.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food
Servings 2
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Bowls and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups milk whole milk preferred for creaminess
  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats steel-cut oats can be used but will need longer cooking
  • 0.5 cup canned pumpkin puree plain, no sugar or spices
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey to taste
  • a pinch salt

Instructions
 

  • Pour the milk into a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, watching for tiny bubbles and fragrant aroma.
  • Add the oats, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon to the simmering milk. Stir well, then reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the oats soften and absorb most of the liquid.
  • Stir in the pumpkin puree vigorously until fully incorporated, turning the mixture a warm, inviting orange hue, and releasing a cozy aroma.
  • If the oatmeal thickens too much, splash in a little more milk or water and stir until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.
  • Sweeten the oatmeal with 1 to 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey, tasting and adjusting as needed for your preferred sweetness.
  • Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring gently, until the mixture is velvety, fragrant, and slightly thickened, but still scoopable.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and let the oatmeal sit for a minute to settle and thicken further. Serve hot, topped with your favorite nuts, seeds, or a dollop of yogurt for added texture and flavor.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle with toasted pepitas or a dash of vanilla extract. Adjust spices and sweetness to taste. Steel-cut oats will require longer cooking time and additional liquid.