This Easy Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is a cozy treat that brings fall vibes to your breakfast table! Packed with tasty pumpkin, warm spices, and oats, it’s both filling and wholesome.
What I love about this dish is how easy it is to make! Just mix everything, bake, and enjoy. It’s like having a pumpkin pie for breakfast without the fuss. Perfect for chilly mornings! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned Rolled Oats: These provide the base and chewy texture for the oatmeal. Quick oats can also work, but may lead to a softer consistency. If you need gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free oats!
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Using canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe as it’s smooth and flavorful. If you prefer, you can use homemade pumpkin puree made from roasted pumpkin, but it requires extra steps!
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeten the dish beautifully. If you’re looking for lower sugar options, try using mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce instead. Adjust sweetness as needed.
Milk: Any kind of milk works here! Dairy or plant-based like almond or oat milk are great options. Just keep in mind that different types will slightly alter the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Creamy Texture?
To keep your baked oatmeal creamy, focus on the balance of wet to dry ingredients. Make sure to fully combine your wet and dry mixes before baking. If you like a wetter texture, feel free to add an extra splash of milk!
- Whisk the wet mixture thoroughly to avoid lumps from the pumpkin puree.
- Do not over-bake! Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes.
Easy Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe for Fall
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups: old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon: baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons: ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon: ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon: ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon: salt
- 1 1/2 cups: milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 cup: canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup: maple syrup or honey
- 1: large egg
- 2 teaspoons: vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup: melted coconut oil or butter
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) or chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pumpkin baked oatmeal will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. Add in a few minutes for letting it cool, and you’ll have a warm, cozy breakfast ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab an 8×8 baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together your rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Give it a good stir so everything is evenly distributed.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup or honey, egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil or butter until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Mix it All Together:
Pour your wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined. If you like, fold in your chopped nuts or chocolate chips at this stage for an extra treat!
5. Bake the Oatmeal:
Transfer your mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top looks set and is lightly golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt if you like!
Now, dig in and savor the flavors of fall! 🍁
FAQ: Easy Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe, as steel-cut oats will result in a chewier texture and longer cooking time. If you prefer steel-cut oats, you may need to soak them overnight or adjust the cooking time significantly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes) and use plant-based milk and maple syrup as your sweetener. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without any animal products!
How Can I Customize the Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add mix-ins like cranberries, raisins, or even different nuts for added texture and flavor. Spices can also be adjusted based on your preferences—add more cinnamon or try a dash of ginger for a spicy kick!
