I wish I had a dollar for every time I have heard that “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day”. The saying is perhaps a bit cliché, but I understand why it is so often repeated. Breakfast is quite literally the breaking of the fast that our bodies naturally assume while we sleep at night. Upon waking we are rested but also somewhat depleted. Breakfast helps to replenish our glucose and delivers nutrients that are vital for maintaining healthy energy levels and alertness throughout the day. Understanding the importance is the easy part, finding time for a meal in the midst of a “mad dash” morning is a bit harder. I have found that making my morning meal the night before is the best way to ensure I’ll have that oh-so-precious breakfast time. Naturally, the buzz surrounding overnight oats caught my attention instantly!

Overnight oats are precisely that, rolled oats that are prepared in the evening and left to sit overnight in the fridge for a nutritious and convenient meal the next day! Whole grain rolled oats are known to contain fiber, protein, minerals, and even antioxidants. Because they are so versatile, overnight oats are the perfect vehicle for seeds, nuts, fruit, and yogurt. The flavor combinations are nearly endless! With fall in the air, I decided to bring some seasonal flare to my mornings by crafting a pumpkin spice variation of the recipe. 

Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats Recipe

Makes about 1 cups.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup organic milk of choice
• 1/2 cup organic rolled oats
• 1/4 cup organic plain yogurt
• 1 1/2 Tbsp. organic maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp. organic chia seeds
• 1/2 tsp. organic pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 tsp. organic vanilla extract
• Pinch of himalayan salt

Directions

1. Add rolled oats, chia seeds, and yogurt to jar or container of choice
2. In separate container add milk, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, salt, and stir well
3. Pour into a container and add chia seeds while mixing with whisk or fork.
4. Slowly pour milk mixture into jar and stir until ingredients are fully incorporated
5. Place lid on jar and store in refrigerator for at least 5 hours or overnight
6. Top oats with favorite garnishes and enjoy!

Pro Tips:

• Some yummy topping ideas include walnuts, hemp seeds, additional yogurt, pumpkin seeds, candied nuts, brown sugar, or even lightly sweetened pumpkin puree.
• Include 1 tablespoon of pumpkin puree in your milk mixture for added seasonal flavor!

Want SOME MORE SEASONAL BREAKFAST INSPIRATION?

Try This Pumpkin Spice Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

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• 3 Healthy Chia Seed Pudding Recipes
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• Pumpkin Spice Banana Pancake Recipe + Chaga Syrup