If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast that feels like a warm hug, this Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe is pure perfection. It combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices with hearty rolled oats to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re welcoming autumn mornings or craving a nutritious treat any time of year, this baked oatmeal hits all the right notes—moist, fragrant, and slightly sweet, with options for crunchy nuts and tart dried fruit that add delightful layers of texture and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe keeps things simple yet flavorful, using a handful of everyday pantry staples that come together effortlessly. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the oats’ natural chewiness to the warm spices that bring pumpkin to life and the touch of sweetness that makes each bite irresistible.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (2 cups): These provide a hearty texture and soak up all the cozy flavors beautifully.
- Pumpkin puree (1 can, 15 oz): The star of the show, delivering moisture, color, and that unmistakable pumpkin soul.
- Milk, dairy or non-dairy (1 ½ cups): Adds creaminess and helps bind the oats with the pumpkin.
- Large eggs (2): Give the oatmeal structure and a tender crumb.
- Maple syrup or honey (¼ cup): Natural sweetness that enhances, never overpowers, the spices and pumpkin.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): A quintessential autumn spice that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Ground nutmeg (½ tsp): Offers a subtle nutty warmth.
- Ground ginger (¼ tsp): Adds a gentle, spicy zing.
- Salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the oatmeal rise slightly for a light texture.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (½ cup, optional): For a satisfying crunch and nutty richness.
- Raisins or cranberries (½ cup, optional): Bring sweet-tart bursts of flavor.
- Melted coconut oil or butter (1 tbsp, for greasing): Prevents sticking and adds a touch of richness to the crust.
How to Make Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with melted coconut oil or butter to ensure your oatmeal will come out cleanly and with a lovely crust.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This blend of spices brings the pumpkin’s flavor to life by infusing every bite with warmth and nostalgia.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly, then add the pumpkin puree, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is completely smooth—this ensures your oatmeal is perfectly tender and moist.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. This step is key to a uniform texture throughout the baked oatmeal, making every spoonful deeply satisfying.
Step 5: Add Optional Extras
If you love a bit of crunch and bursts of sweetness, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans along with raisins or cranberries. These additions give a delightful contrast that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour your mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe cool for a few minutes—this helps it set and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm, and consider a dollop of yogurt or an extra drizzle of maple syrup for a little extra indulgence.
How to Serve Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, try topping the oatmeal with creamy Greek yogurt, a spoonful of nut butter, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Fresh fruit like banana slices or pomegranate arils can add freshness and a pop of color, making your breakfast both beautiful and balanced.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. For something heartier, a side of scrambled eggs or turkey sausage provides protein to round out your morning meal with satisfying variety.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not try serving pumpkin baked oatmeal in cute ramekins for individual portions perfect for brunch guests? Layer it with yogurt and granola in a parfait or bake it in muffin tins to create grab-and-go breakfast bites. The Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your mood and occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe, store them covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so reheated portions taste even better.
Freezing
This oatmeal freezes beautifully. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s a handy, wholesome breakfast ready whenever you need it!
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes, or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps keep it moist and fresh-tasting.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats can work in a pinch, but since they’re finer and absorb liquid differently, the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats give you that perfect hearty bite the recipe is famous for.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the eggs for flax eggs (mix 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons water, let sit) and use a plant-based milk. Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for greasing.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Definitely. You can cut the maple syrup or honey down or omit it entirely if you prefer a less sweet dish. The pumpkin and spices still provide plenty of natural flavor to enjoy.
What if I don’t like nuts or dried fruit?
No problem at all. The nuts and dried fruit are optional and can be left out or swapped for chocolate chips or fresh berries depending on your taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats, as regular oats might be processed with gluten-containing grains.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe is truly a cozy, nutritious treat that feels like a special occasion every time you dig in. It’s easy to prepare, full of seasonal flavor, and endlessly adaptable to suit your preferences. I can’t encourage you enough to try it—once you do, it’ll become a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation.
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Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is a warm, comforting, and wholesome breakfast featuring hearty oats combined with pumpkin puree and autumnal spices. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey, it’s a nutritious, easy-to-make dish perfect for fall or any cozy morning. Optional nuts and dried fruits add texture and flavor, making this baked oatmeal both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 ½ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
Optional Add-ins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup raisins or cranberries
For Greasing
- 1 tbsp melted coconut oil or butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with the melted coconut oil or butter to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Whisk together to evenly distribute the spices and leavening.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Add the pumpkin puree, milk, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is fully blended and smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until the oats are fully coated and the mixture is well combined with no dry spots.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries if using. This adds texture and a burst of flavor to the oatmeal.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The oatmeal is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm on its own or topped with a dollop of yogurt or extra maple syrup for added richness.
Notes
- You can substitute dairy milk with almond, soy, oat, or any preferred non-dairy milk for a vegan option (omit eggs or use egg replacer to make fully vegan).
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey according to taste.
- Ensure the baking dish is greased well to avoid sticking and facilitate easy serving.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Feel free to customize by adding other spices like cloves or allspice for a different flavor profile.
- Walnuts and pecans add healthy fats and a crunchy texture, but can be omitted for nut-free diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
