If you’re looking for a comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to dishes. It combines hearty oats with seasonal pumpkin puree and cozy spices to create a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Not only is it simple to put together, but it also fills your kitchen with that irresistible aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. Perfect for chilly mornings or whenever you want a satisfying, wholesome start to your day, this recipe blends the best flavors of fall in a baked oatmeal that’s moist, tender, and packed with taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe is straightforward yet essential, bringing its own unique flair to the dish. From the natural sweetness of brown sugar to the warm spices that evoke autumnal bliss, each element contributes to the perfect texture, flavor, and color that make this oatmeal truly special.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor that deepens the dish.
- Pumpkin puree: The star of the recipe, providing moisture and that unmistakable pumpkin taste.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Offers natural sweetness and keeps the oatmeal moist without adding extra fat.
- Large eggs: Act as a binder, ensuring your oatmeal stays together when baked.
- Whole milk (or milk alternative): Adds creaminess and enriches the batter for a tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Old fashioned rolled oats: The base of the dish, providing heartiness and a chewy texture.
- Baking powder: Gives the oatmeal a light, fluffy rise.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the dish with that classic warming spice.
- Pumpkin pie spice: A perfect blend of spices that brings cozy depth.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- Maple syrup, fruit, and nuts (optional): Great for serving, adding extra sweetness, crunch, and freshness.
How to Make Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, lightly grease a medium baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later. This simple prep makes all the difference when it comes to those perfectly baked edges.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the packed light brown sugar, pumpkin puree, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and unified. This step ensures all the wet ingredients blend well and create a luscious base for the oats to soak in.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This dry blend introduces the baking magic and that vital warm spice flavor, primed to complement the pumpkin puree perfectly.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet one and stir gently just until everything is combined. The oats will absorb the moisture and spices, setting the stage for a rich, cozy texture once baked.
Step 5: Bake the Oatmeal
Transfer the batter to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the top feels firm but still tender. This baking time lets the flavors meld and creates that irresistible baked oatmeal crust.
How to Serve Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to dress up your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe with toppings like a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch, or fresh fruit to add pops of brightness. Each garnish elevates the dish and lets you tailor it to your mood or the season.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a dollop of Greek yogurt or a cup of spiced chai tea. The creamy yogurt adds a tangy contrast, while the warm tea complements those aromatic pumpkin pie spices perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this oatmeal in individual ramekins for a charming brunch setup or layer it with yogurt and granola to transform it into a decadent parfait. You can even cut it into squares and enjoy it as a grab-and-go breakfast treat during busy mornings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which often happens because this dish is so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The oatmeal’s flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next serving even better.
Freezing
This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice it into portions and wrap them individually in plastic wrap or freezer-safe containers. Frozen portions can last for up to 3 months, ready to be enjoyed anytime you need a cozy, nourishing breakfast.
Reheating
To bring your leftover baked oatmeal back to life, microwave a portion for about 1 to 2 minutes until warm and soft. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps maintain its moist texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is actually perfect for this Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe and helps maintain a consistent texture and flavor throughout.
What type of oats should I use?
Old fashioned rolled oats are ideal because they absorb moisture well while still providing a lovely chewy texture. Instant oats can become too mushy, and steel-cut oats won’t cook properly in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the whole milk with your preferred plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk without altering the taste or texture.
Can I add additional mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
Definitely. Feel free to customize your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe by folding in chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts before baking for extra flavor and texture.
How do I know when the baked oatmeal is done?
You’ll want the edges to be slightly golden and the center to be set but still moist. Press gently on the center; it should spring back a bit rather than feel wet or overly soft.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe a try—it’s one of those comforting dishes that warms your heart and fills your belly with wholesome goodness. It’s simple, versatile, and perfect for cozy mornings with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Once you make it, I predict it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen, bringing joy and deliciousness to your table all season long.
Print
Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast perfect for fall or any time you crave a nutritious start. Combining pumpkin puree, oats, and warm spices, this dish offers a wholesome, naturally sweetened meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for batch baking.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or preferred milk alternative
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup
- Fresh fruit (such as berries or sliced bananas)
- Nuts (such as chopped walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, pumpkin puree, applesauce, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until completely combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Pour Batter into Dish: Transfer the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve with optional toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruit, and nuts to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- This baked oatmeal keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheats nicely for quick breakfasts.
- For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk and sugar alternative.
- You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, or shredded coconut before baking for extra texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a lower sugar option, reduce the brown sugar or omit the maple syrup topping.
