Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

This week we are actually going to be experiencing 50 degree weather so I'm sure we're all going to be ditching our winter coats and slippin on our flip flops because it is going to feel HOT compared to what we've been used to!!  I am very excited to see all the snow from the recent blizzard melt away but not to get our hopes up too high because we are only in the middle of February so there are going to be plenty of chilly mornings/snowy nights left for the season I am afraid.  That being said, here's another one for the cold winter mornings!  At least maybe this will put a smile on your face when you wake up and see a snow covered ground.

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
adapted by Oh She Glows

1/3 cup regular oats
1 cup almond milk
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/3 to 1/2 cup pumpkin
1/2 tablespoon chia seeds
Pinch of sea salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp ginger
1/8 tsp nutmeg

Topping:
Chopped pecans (approx 1 tablespoon)
1 tablespoon almond milk
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1/2 tsp Earth Balance butter
Pinch of cinnamon

In a medium sized pot, heat the oats and almond milk over medium heat until it comes to a low boil.  Stir in the pumpkin and chai seeds.  Heat over low-medium for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.  Now add in the spices and vanilla and heat for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.  Pour into a bowl and add toppings.