Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm slice of pumpkin baked oatmeal to usher in the cozy vibes of fall. This delightful dish is not only comforting but also packed with nutritious ingredients that make it a perfect breakfast or snack. Imagine waking up to a golden, fragrant bake studded with sweet bursts of raisins or cranberries and the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or cranberries (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure your oatmeal bakes beautifully and doesn’t stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin puree, milk, maple syrup, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until well incorporated, creating a lovely orange-hued mixture.
- If you’re adding a bit of crunch, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and sweeten the experience with raisins or cranberries. Stir well to distribute the add-ins evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract until frothy and well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture into the oat mixture, stirring gently to ensure all ingredients are fully blended.
- Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a lovely golden color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of fall!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your baked oatmeal! If you’re a fan of spices, you can add a touch of ginger or allspice for an extra flavor kick. This dish also freezes beautifully, so you can make a double batch and have a convenient, healthy breakfast ready whenever you need it. Just reheat servings in the microwave or oven for a quick treat!
Cooking Techniques
Making this pumpkin baked oatmeal is straightforward, but here are a few techniques to ensure the best results:
- Mixing: Take care not to overmix the batter; you want it combined but not overly beaten, to keep the texture nice and chewy.
- Baking: Ensure that your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cooling: Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This will help it set up a bit more, making slicing easier.
FAQ
- Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats? While rolled oats are best for this recipe, you can use steel-cut oats, but the texture will be chewier and you may need to increase the bake time.
- Is there a way to make this vegan? Absolutely! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a non-dairy milk for a completely plant-based breakfast.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
This pumpkin baked oatmeal is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fall flavors wrapped up in a wholesome, satisfying package. It’s a wonderful way to start your day or enjoy as a snack anytime. With its lovely texture and the vibrant taste of pumpkin, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, warm up that oven, and treat yourself to a delicious, nutritious baked delight!