Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe
If you’re craving a cozy, nourishing breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, the Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish blends the hearty texture of steel cut oats with the naturally sweet, velvety goodness of pumpkin, enhanced by warming spices and a touch of maple syrup. It’s incredibly simple to make in your Instant Pot, saving you time while filling your kitchen with autumnal aromas that are impossible to resist. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend morning, this oatmeal is sure to become a comforting favorite that fuels you with delicious, wholesome energy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together the Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe is a breeze thanks to its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each element plays a special role, from the nutty depth of steel cut oats to the sweet warmth of pumpkin pie spice that brings the whole dish to life.
- 1 cup steel cut oats: These bring a wonderfully chewy texture and hearty fiber to keep you full for hours.
- 3 cups water: The cooking liquid that helps soften the oats and meld the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree: Adds creaminess, vibrant color, and that unmistakable fall flavor packed with nutrients.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the oatmeal.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: The signature spice blend that turns ordinary oats into a seasonal treat.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness with a rich, caramel-like undertone.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almond butter: Offers texture and a nutty richness, plus a delightful contrast to the creamy oats.
How to Make Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Start by simply adding steel cut oats, water, pumpkin puree, salt, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup right into the Instant Pot. This one-pot method makes cleanup a snap and ensures every ingredient perfectly mingles while cooking.
Step 2: Seal the Instant Pot
Close the lid securely and make sure the valve is set to the sealing position. This step is crucial to build up the pressure inside the pot, which cooks the oats evenly and quickly while preserving all those cozy pumpkin flavors.
Step 3: Cook Under Pressure
Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the timer goes off, let it naturally release pressure for 8 minutes. This gradual release helps the oats finish cooking gently and absorb maximum creaminess.
Step 4: Quick Release Remaining Pressure
After the natural release time, carefully switch the valve to release any remaining pressure. This ensures the lid can be opened safely and the oatmeal is perfectly cooked throughout.
Step 5: Stir and Adjust
Open the lid and give your oatmeal a good stir. You’ll notice a beautifully thick and creamy texture starting to form. If you like it a bit thinner, feel free to stir in a splash of milk or water until it reaches your ideal consistency.
Step 6: Let It Thicken
The Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe continues to thicken as it cools, so keep that in mind when serving. A thicker bowl is just waiting for your favorite toppings to take it to the next level of deliciousness.
How to Serve Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your pumpkin oatmeal is where you can get creative and make it truly your own. Chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch, while a swirl of almond butter lends extra creaminess and richness. Don’t forget a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of warm maple syrup to amplify those cozy fall flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty oatmeal with fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears to bring a refreshing contrast. If you want to keep it breakfast-focused, a side of Greek yogurt or a soft-boiled egg adds extra protein that balances well with the oats.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve your Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe in charming mason jars for an on-the-go breakfast? You can also layer it with granola and yogurt for a parfait-style twist that’s perfect for brunch or a delightful snack any time of day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your oatmeal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making the next few breakfasts just as satisfying.
Freezing
This Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to a month, making busy mornings much easier when you just need to reheat and enjoy.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the oats, as they thicken in the fridge or freezer. Warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until creamy and heated through.
FAQs
Can I use regular oats instead of steel cut oats?
Regular rolled oats cook much faster and have a softer texture, so they’re not ideal for this specific Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe, which relies on the chewy bite of steel cut oats. If you choose to use rolled oats, reduce cooking time accordingly.
Is pumpkin puree the same as canned pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree is exactly what you want here. Just make sure you’re using pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use maple syrup in place of honey and ensure no dairy toppings. Almond butter and walnuts are perfect plant-based toppings.
How spicy is the pumpkin pie spice?
It offers a warm, mild spice blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. It’s aromatic but not overpowering, providing the perfect cozy pumpkin flavor without heat.
Can I add protein to this oatmeal?
Yes! Stirring in a scoop of your favorite protein powder after cooking or topping with nuts and seeds can boost the protein content while complementing the flavors of this Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe truly captures the essence of comfort food made simple. It’s the kind of breakfast that fills your home with inviting aromas, satisfies your hunger, and warms your soul on any morning. Give it a try, and soon enough, it’ll be your go-to recipe for a wholesome, flavorful start to the day.
Print
Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Instant Pot Steel Cut Pumpkin Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast perfect for fall mornings. Creamy steel cut oats are cooked quickly in the Instant Pot with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a touch of maple syrup for natural sweetness. Topped with crunchy walnuts or a swirl of almond butter, this nutrient-packed oatmeal is easy to prepare and delivers a hearty, flavorful start to your day.
Ingredients
Oatmeal
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Toppings
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almond butter
Instructions
- Add Ingredients: Add the steel cut oats, water, pumpkin puree, salt, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup directly into the Instant Pot bowl. Stir gently to combine evenly.
- Seal the Instant Pot: Close the lid securely and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position to prepare for pressure cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. This will soften the oats while infusing them with pumpkin flavor.
- Natural Pressure Release: After the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 8 minutes. This helps finish cooking the oats gently.
- Quick Release: Carefully move the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
- Stir and Serve: Open the lid and stir the oatmeal well. The mixture will thicken further as it cools. Serve topped with chopped walnuts or almond butter for added texture and nutrition.
Notes
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best taste and texture.
- Steel cut oats may be substituted with rolled oats, but cooking time will need adjustment.
- For a vegan option, ensure maple syrup and almond butter are used as toppings.
- Pressure cooking times may vary slightly depending on your Instant Pot model.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
