Name: Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats preferred); 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 2 apples (peeled and diced, firm variety); 2 cups milk (any type); 2 eggs (large); 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 tbsp butter (melted, or coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts); dried cranberries; maple syrup (for serving); Greek yogurt (for serving)

Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal is a delicious, wholesome breakfast perfect for fall mornings. This easy baked oatmeal recipe blends the natural sweetness of pumpkin puree and fresh apples with hearty rolled oats, warm cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Unlike stovetop oatmeal, baking creates a soft, slightly chewy texture while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Sweetened lightly with brown sugar and enriched with eggs and milk, it’s nutritious, satisfying, and ideal for meal prep. Top with nuts, maple syrup, or yogurt for added flavor. Cozy, comforting, and healthy, this baked oatmeal is a fall breakfast you’ll want all season.

Table of Contents

What is Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal?

Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal is a delightful twist on traditional oatmeal, elevating it into a comforting and nutritious baked dish perfect for cooler weather. This recipe combines the naturally sweet flavors of pumpkin puree and diced apples with hearty rolled oats, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of sweetness. The ingredients are mixed together and then baked in the oven, resulting in a moist, slightly chewy, and incredibly flavorful breakfast or brunch option.

Unlike stovetop oatmeal, baking it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a cohesive and satisfying meal. Plus, baked oatmeal is great for meal prepping – you can bake it once and enjoy it for several days! It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more fiber, vitamins, and comforting fall flavors into your diet. Ready to embrace the cozy fall vibes? Give this Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal recipe a try and start your day with a delicious, wholesome treat!

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal:

Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious baked oatmeal:

Rolled Oats: 3 cups. Use rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) for the best texture. Quick oats will work in a pinch, but the texture will be less chewy. Avoid steel-cut oats as they require a much longer cooking time.
Pumpkin Puree: 1 1/2 cups. Make sure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
Apples: 2 medium, diced. Opt for a firm, slightly tart apple like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji. Peel and dice them into small, even pieces.
Milk: 2 cups. Any type of milk will work – dairy, almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk. Choose based on your preference and dietary needs.
Eggs: 2 large. These act as a binder and help create a cohesive texture.
Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed. Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor. Can be substituted with maple syrup or coconut sugar.
Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted. Adds richness and flavor. Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe. You can use coconut oil to make it dairy-free.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons. A classic fall spice that pairs perfectly with pumpkin and apple.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: 1 teaspoon. Adds warmth and depth of flavor. Can be substituted with a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon. Helps the baked oatmeal rise slightly and gives it a lighter texture.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Optional Toppings: Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts), dried cranberries, maple syrup, a dollop of Greek yogurt.

How to Make Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal:

This Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal is incredibly easy to make! In under an hour, you’ll have a warm, comforting breakfast ready to enjoy. It’s as simple as combining all the ingredients, pouring them into a baking dish, and letting the oven do the rest. From prepping to serving, it’s a breeze to make and delivers autumn flavors in every bite! Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes with a baking time around 45.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the oatmeal from sticking to the dish.
In a large bowl, combine the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl add the pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and brown sugar. Whisk all ingredients together until they are well combined and the mixture is smooth. This ensures even distribution of the liquids and sweetness throughout the oatmeal.
Add the dry ingredients: Add rolled oats, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and coated in the liquid mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough oatmeal.
Incorporate the apples: Add the diced apples to the mixture and gently stir until they are evenly distributed throughout. Ensure that the apples are well incorporated, but avoid overmixing.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Spread it out so that the mixture is level and uniform.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the top is lightly golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Let it rest: Once the oatmeal is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set a bit more and makes it easier to slice.
Serve and enjoy: Cut the baked oatmeal into squares and serve warm. You can enjoy it plain or add your favorite toppings like chopped nuts, maple syrup, dried cranberries, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal

This Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal isn’t just a breakfast; it’s a joyful start to your day. The standout element is the blend of warm spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, combined with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and apples, creating a cozy and comforting experience. Making it at home saves you money compared to buying pre-made baked goods at a cafe, and it allows you to control the quality and quantity of ingredients. The addition of optional toppings like chopped pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup elevates the flavor profile even further, making each bite unique and satisfying.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like our classic baked oatmeal recipe or try a variation like our blueberry baked oatmeal! Why settle for boring breakfasts when you can create something extraordinary? Give this Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal a try and experience the bliss and warmth it brings to your mornings!

What to Serve Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal With:

Elevate your Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal experience with these complementary sides and drinks:

Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang that balances the sweetness of the oatmeal.
Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness and adds a touch of indulgence.
Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a compote for a vibrant and healthy addition.
Warm Milk: A glass of warm milk (dairy or non-dairy) complements the oatmeal and adds to the comforting experience.
Coffee or Tea: Pair with your favorite coffee or tea for a classic breakfast combination.
Bacon or Sausage: If you enjoy a savory element with your sweet breakfast, add a side of crispy bacon or sausage.

Top Tips for Perfecting the Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal:

Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough baked oatmeal. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
Use the right type of oats: Rolled oats are ideal for baked oatmeal. Quick oats will work, but the texture will be different. Avoid steel-cut oats.
Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a less sweet oatmeal, reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup.
Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice to your liking.
Add extra toppings: Consider stirring in chocolate chips, raisins, or other dried fruits for added flavor.
Check for doneness: The baked oatmeal is done when it’s set and lightly golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Prevent sticking: Grease the baking dish thoroughly to prevent the oatmeal from sticking.
Use ripe apples: Ripe apples will be sweeter and softer, adding more flavor to the oatmeal.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal:

Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Oats are a great source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full and satisfied. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that support immune function. Apples provide additional fiber and antioxidants, contributing to overall health. The milk adds protein and calcium, while ingredients like cinnamon have anti-inflammatory properties. This makes baked oatmeal a nutritious and balanced meal to start your day.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Storing:

Refrigerate: Store leftover Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of the baked oatmeal. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen oatmeal can last for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:

Microwave: To reheat a single serving, microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Oven: For a larger portion or the entire dish, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Add a splash of milk to prevent it from drying out.
Toaster Oven: Individual slices can also be reheated in a toaster oven for a crispy edge.

Final Thoughts:

This Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace the flavors of fall and create a comforting, nourishing breakfast that resonates with warmth and deliciousness. Perfect for meal-prepping, feeding a crowd, or simply enjoying a cozy morning, this recipe is a testament to the simple joys of wholesome, homemade food.

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Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal FAQs:

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? While rolled oats are preferred for their chewy texture, you can use quick oats in a pinch. The texture of the baked oatmeal will be softer.
Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) in place of the eggs, and replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
Can I reduce the sugar content? Absolutely. You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup, or use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to suit your preference.
Can I add nuts to the recipe? Yes, adding chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds will add a nice crunch and flavor. Stir them into the mixture before baking or sprinkle them on top.
How do I prevent the oatmeal from sticking to the dish? Grease the baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter before pouring in the oatmeal mixture.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the oatmeal mixture the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply bake as directed. This is a great time-saver for busy mornings!

Evelyn