1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a jar, container, or bowl with a lid, add the rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together thoroughly with a spoon or fork to ensure the protein powder and spices are evenly distributed. This prevents clumping later on.

2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, canned pumpkin puree, and maple syrup (or honey).

3. Mix Until Well Combined: Stir everything together very well. Make sure there are no dry pockets of oats or protein powder clinging to the bottom or sides of the container. Scrape the sides and bottom of the jar to ensure full incorporation.

4. Cover and Refrigerate: Place a lid on your jar or container. If using a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Transfer it to the refrigerator.

5. Allow to Chill: Let the oats chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight (8 hours). This allows the oats to soften, the chia seeds to swell and thicken the mixture, and all the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Check Consistency and Serve: In the morning, open your jar and give the oats a good stir. If they seem too thick, you can add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.

7. Add Toppings (Optional): Serve chilled, optionally topped with a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice, a dollop of Greek yogurt, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup.