This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is the perfect autumn treat, combining the warmth of spices with the wholesome goodness of oats. Ideal for busy mornings or cozy brunches, this recipe brings a delightful twist to your breakfast table. Its rich flavor and comforting texture make it a standout dish during the fall season, whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious Start – Packed with fiber and protein, this baked oatmeal will keep you full and energized throughout the morning.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together quickly, making this a hassle-free recipe perfect for any skill level.
- Versatile Toppings – Customize your serving with yogurt, whipped topping, or maple syrup to suit your taste preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Bake ahead of time and refrigerate for an easy breakfast option throughout the week.
- Seasonal Flavor – Embrace the flavors of fall with pumpkin puree and warm spices that create a cozy atmosphere.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish – A 9×9-inch dish ensures even cooking and perfect portion sizes for your baked oatmeal.
- Mixing Bowls – Using large mixing bowls allows you to combine ingredients without spills or messes.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your recipe.
Ingredients
This seasonal baked oatmeal is a cozy and nutritious breakfast in one. Enjoy a serving with a cup of coffee on a crisp fall day. Top it off with a dollop of whipped topping or yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup, dusting of pumpkin pie spice, and sprinkle of toasted pecans.
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
Toppings
- ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted + more for topping (omit for nut-free)
How to Make Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the 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, combine the dry ingredients:
1. The oats
2. Pumpkin pie spice
3. Baking powder
4. Salt
Stir until well mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Next, stir in the wet ingredients:
1. Pumpkin puree
2. Milk
3. Eggs
4. Maple syrup
5. Melted butter
6. Vanilla extract
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish. Top with additional toasted pecans if desired.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 30-34 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let sit for 5 minutes before cutting into squares. Top servings with yogurt or whipped topping, a drizzle of maple syrup, and/or a dash of pumpkin pie spice as desired.
This delicious Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal serves up to nine portions — perfect for sharing!
How to Serve Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Serving Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is as delightful as making it. This wholesome dish can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing you to customize each serving to your liking.
Top with Yogurt
- Add a generous dollop of yogurt on top for added creaminess and a protein boost.
Drizzle Maple Syrup
- A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
Sprinkle with Nuts
- Toasted pecans or walnuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the oatmeal.
Serve Warm with Milk
- Pour warm milk over the baked oatmeal for a comforting touch, making each bite even softer.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Sliced bananas or berries can provide freshness and additional nutrients, making breakfast even more enjoyable.
Use Whipped Topping
- For a dessert-like treat, spoon some whipped topping on your oatmeal for a light and airy finish.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
To achieve the best Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal, keep these tips in mind for perfect results every time.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree can enhance flavor compared to canned options.
- Measure oats accurately: Ensure you measure your oats correctly to maintain the right texture; too many oats can make it dry.
- Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your preference for warmth and spice.
- Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing it to rest for a few minutes helps it set better, making it easier to cut into servings.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep any uneaten oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days for easy breakfasts throughout the week.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the oatmeal.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding is rich in omega-3s and makes a nutritious complement.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein that balances the carbs from the oatmeal.
- Smoothie: A green smoothie provides added vitamins and minerals while remaining light and refreshing.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit creates a delicious contrast in texture and taste.
- Nut Butter Toast: Whole grain toast topped with almond or peanut butter provides healthy fats and keeps you full longer.
- Cottage Cheese Bowl: A bowl of cottage cheese topped with fruit makes for a protein-packed side that pairs well with breakfast flavors.
- Sautéed Spinach or Kale: Lightly sautéed greens add color and nutrients, balancing out your plate beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfect.
- Using instant oats: Instant oats can lead to a mushy texture. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best consistency.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: A little too much of a dry ingredient can throw off the balance. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Skipping the spices: Pumpkin pie spice is essential for flavor. Don’t omit it; instead, feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Overbaking: Leaving the oatmeal in the oven too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and remove it once the center is set.
- Forgetting to let it cool: Cutting into hot oatmeal can make it fall apart. Allow it to sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Let the baked oatmeal cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
- Freeze in individual portions for easy access later.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350℉ and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal healthy?
Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is packed with fiber from oats and pumpkin, making it a nutritious breakfast option that keeps you full longer.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well-cooked and blended until smooth before adding it to your mixture.
How can I customize my Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal?
Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips based on your preferences. You can also adjust the spice levels!
Is Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe is suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is not only a cozy breakfast but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as-is or customize it with your favorite toppings. Try this delightful recipe this fall and savor every bite!
Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is the ultimate cozy breakfast for fall, blending the rich flavor of pumpkin puree with warm spices for a comforting start to your day. This wholesome dish is perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches, offering a nutritious boost packed with fiber and protein. With its easy preparation and delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again. Customize it with your favorite toppings like yogurt, maple syrup, or nuts, making each serving unique. Whether you’re savoring it solo or sharing with loved ones, this baked oatmeal is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 34 minutes
- Total Time: 49 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 9
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted + more for topping (omit for nut-free)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until mixed well and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30-34 minutes or until set in the center.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 120g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
