If you’re searching for a cozy, delicious way to start your morning, the Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It marries the creamy, hearty goodness of steel cut oats with the rich, comforting flavors of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice, all cooked effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This recipe delivers a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly mornings when you want something wholesome, slightly sweet, and packed with vibrant autumnal flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it an ideal breakfast for busy weekdays or when you want to savor a special weekend treat without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet crucial to the charm of the Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe. Each component plays a part in building layers of flavor, texture, and that perfect autumnal color we all crave.
- Pumpkin purée: Adds velvety texture and vibrant autumn flavor; canned or homemade works beautifully.
- Water: The base liquid that cooks the oats to tender perfection without overpowering the pumpkin notes.
- Pumpkin pie spice: A blend of warm spices that infuse the oatmeal with classic fall warmth and aroma.
- Kosher salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness while bringing out deeper flavors.
- Brown sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and caramel undertones to the dish.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with a gentle aromatic sweetness.
- Steel cut oats: The hearty whole grain star that creates a satisfying, chewy texture perfect for slow mornings.
How to Make Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot
Start by adding all your ingredients into the pot of the pressure cooker. Give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the pumpkin purée, spices, and oats. This simple step ensures every bite is perfectly flavored and that nothing sticks to the bottom during cooking.
Step 2: Seal and Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot lid securely and make sure the steam vent is set to sealing. Select manual or pressure cook mode, setting it to high pressure for 4 minutes. This short pressure cooking time allows the steel cut oats to become tender while the pumpkin infuses its rich flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Natural Release for Creamy Oats
When the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. This gradual release keeps the oatmeal creamy and perfectly cooked. If after 10 minutes the float valve hasn’t dropped, carefully release any remaining steam manually before opening the lid.
Step 4: Stir and Rest Before Serving
Once open, stir the oats gently; you’ll notice it thickening as you mix. Allow the oatmeal to rest for about 5 minutes — this resting time helps it thicken further and cool slightly so it’s easier to enjoy, bringing out all the flavors you’ve built up.
How to Serve Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Boost the flavor and add texture by topping your oatmeal with toasted pecans, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. A sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon can add a visually appealing dusting and aromatic touch.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin oatmeal pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit—think crisp apple slices or juicy pomegranate seeds—that cut through the richness with refreshing brightness. For a more substantial breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a slice of toasted whole-grain bread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal in individual mason jars layered with granola and dried cranberries, turning a humble bowl of oats into a stunning breakfast parfait. Or try swirling in nut butter or chocolate chips just before serving to add extra richness and a decadent surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The oats will thicken as they sit, so add a splash of milk or water when reheating to restore that creamy consistency.
Freezing
This oatmeal freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove or microwave for a quick nourishing breakfast.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently either in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of milk or water to loosen the texture. Stir frequently to heat evenly and bring back that smooth, creamy goodness. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup freshens it up wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of steel cut oats?
While you can substitute rolled oats, they cook much faster and create a softer texture, so adjust the cooking time accordingly if you decide to swap. The Instant Pot settings may need to be reduced.
Is canned pumpkin purée the same as pumpkin pie filling?
No, canned pumpkin purée is pure pumpkin without added spices or sugar, whereas pumpkin pie filling contains extra ingredients for sweetness and flavor. For this recipe, use pure pumpkin purée to control the seasoning perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use brown sugar that isn’t processed with bone char. For non-dairy creaminess, top with coconut yogurt or nut milk instead of dairy options.
How spicy is the pumpkin pie spice in this oatmeal?
The pumpkin pie spice adds a gentle warmth that’s cozy rather than overpowering. If you prefer stronger spice notes, feel free to add a pinch more or garnish with extra cinnamon or nutmeg to taste.
Can I prepare this oatmeal on the stovetop instead?
You can, but it will require longer cooking time and more attention to prevent sticking. The Instant Pot is perfect for hands-off cooking and consistent results, especially for steel cut oats.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t beat the comfort and ease of this Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe. It strikes a perfect balance of hearty and comforting with just the right touch of sweet and spice to brighten your mornings. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find it becomes a treasured part of your breakfast rotation that warms you inside with every spoonful.
Print
Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Instant Pot Pumpkin Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast that combines the creamy texture of steel cut oats with the rich flavor of pumpkin and warming spices. Perfectly cooked under pressure, this easy recipe comes together quickly and is ideal for a nutritious fall-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup pumpkin purée
- 3 cups water
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup steel cut oats
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add all of the ingredients – pumpkin purée, water, pumpkin pie spice, kosher salt, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and steel cut oats – into the pot of the Instant Pot. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and make sure the steam vent is set to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 4 minutes on high pressure.
- Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes after cooking. If the float valve has not dropped after 10 minutes, carefully release any remaining steam by switching the venting knob. Once the float valve drops, carefully open the lid.
- Thicken and Rest: Stir the oatmeal thoroughly; it will thicken as you stir and cool. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to reach the perfect creamy consistency.
Notes
- Steel cut oats retain a chewy texture when cooked this way; for softer oats, increase the cooking time slightly.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to taste.
- Use canned pumpkin purée or homemade pumpkin purée for authentic flavor.
- Mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit can be added after cooking for extra texture.
- Leftover oatmeal can be refrigerated and reheated with a splash of milk or water.
