This cozy Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is the perfect way to enjoy a nutritious breakfast during the fall season. With its warm spices, rich pumpkin flavor, and satisfying texture, it’s an ideal dish for chilly mornings or family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying it solo with your favorite beverage, this baked oatmeal is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can be whipped up in no time.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with oats and pumpkin, it provides a hearty start to your day without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable Toppings: Top it with yogurt, maple syrup, or nuts according to your preference for added texture and flavor.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for quick breakfasts.
- Seasonal Flavor: Infused with pumpkin pie spice, it’s a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create this delicious Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking dish: This size ensures even cooking and perfect portions for your baked oatmeal.
- Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients helps combine them better for a uniform batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your recipe.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal, gather the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups old fashioned rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- ¼ cup unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Topping
- ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted + more for topping (omit for nut-free)
How to Make Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375℉. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or oil spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients:
1. Add the oats.
2. Stir in the pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:
1. Combine pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), melted butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract.
2. Stir until all ingredients are smoothly blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients:
1. Gently stir until everything is well integrated.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish:
1. Spread evenly across the bottom.
2. Top with additional toasted pecans if desired.
Step 6: Bake
Place in your preheated oven:
1. Bake for 30-34 minutes or until set in the center.
2. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked:
1. Let cool for about 5 minutes before cutting into squares.
2. Serve warm topped with yogurt or whipped topping, maple syrup drizzle, and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal as a lovely start to your day!
How to Serve Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Serving Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal can elevate your breakfast experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
With Yogurt or Whipped Topping
- Creamy Addition: A dollop of yogurt or whipped topping adds a creamy texture that balances the hearty oats.
Drizzle of Maple Syrup
- Sweet Touch: A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness and complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
Sprinkle of Pumpkin Pie Spice
- Flavor Boost: Dusting your serving with pumpkin pie spice intensifies the fall flavors and gives it an aromatic touch.
Topped with Toasted Pecans
- Nutty Crunch: Add extra toasted pecans on top for a satisfying crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
Fresh Fruit Slices
- Bright Flavor: Serve with slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the warm oatmeal.
Coconut Cream
- Luscious Alternative: For a dairy-free option, use whipped coconut cream as a topping for added richness and flavor.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
To ensure your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Boldly Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree and high-quality spices to enhance flavor.
Boldly Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of maple syrup or honey based on your personal preference for sweetness.
Boldly Experiment with Milk Options: Try different types of milk (almond, oat, or soy) for varied tastes and dietary needs.
Boldly Customize Mix-ins: Add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds for extra texture and flavor variations.
Boldly Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary, so adjust as needed to avoid overcooking.
Boldly Let it Rest: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before cutting; this helps it set properly for easier serving.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal can create a well-rounded breakfast. Here are some great options.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Combine seasonal fruits like apples, bananas, and berries for a refreshing side that complements the oatmeal’s flavors.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for added protein and crunch alongside your baked oatmeal.
Nut Butter Toast: Spread almond or peanut butter on whole-grain toast for a satisfying side that adds healthy fats and protein.
Cinnamon Applesauce: Serve warm cinnamon-flavored applesauce as a sweet and comforting side dish that enhances fall flavors.
Chia Seed Pudding: Prepare chia pudding the night before using plant-based milk; it’s nutritious and pairs well with oatmeal.
Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl made from blended fruits topped with seeds is an excellent way to enjoy something cool along with your warm oatmeal.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: For extra protein, include hard-boiled eggs on the side; they’re simple to prepare in advance.
Roasted Vegetables: Lightly roasted seasonal vegetables like squash or Brussels sprouts can add savory balance to your breakfast spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 375℉ for optimal results.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can alter the texture and flavor. Use dry measuring cups for oats and liquid measuring cups for liquids.
- Skipping the Greasing Step: Failing to grease the baking dish may result in sticking. Always grease it with butter or oil spray before adding the batter.
- Overmixing Batter: Overmixing can make the oatmeal tough instead of fluffy. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the oatmeal too soon can result in a messy serving. Allow it to cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
- To freeze, cut into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container; it will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ and heat individual servings for about 15 minutes, covered with foil.
- Microwave: Heat a single serving on high for 30-60 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal? Here are some answers to common questions.
How do I make Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk instead of regular milk.
Can I add other ingredients to Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal?
Absolutely! Consider adding nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
How long does Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal last?
When stored properly, it lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.
What can I serve with Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal?
Top it with yogurt, whipped topping, maple syrup, or fresh fruits for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is not just a delicious fall treat; it’s also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite nuts or spices. Give this cozy recipe a try—it’s perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Indulge in the warmth of fall with this delightful Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal. Perfect for chilly mornings, this cozy dish combines the rich flavor of pumpkin with warm spices for a nutritious breakfast that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s ideal for family gatherings or meal prep, as it can be enjoyed throughout the week. Customize it with your favorite toppings like yogurt, maple syrup, or nuts for an extra touch. With its wholesome ingredients and comforting texture, this baked oatmeal will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
- Total Time: 49 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups old fashioned rolled oats
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- ¼ cup unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted (omit for nut-free)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine oats, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), melted butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and top with toasted pecans if desired.
- Bake for 30-34 minutes until set in the center; a toothpick should come out clean.
- Cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serve warm with your choice of toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 34 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (100g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For a vegan version, replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk. Experiment by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.