Description
This Pumpkin Spice Baked Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast option perfect for fall. It combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with the heartiness of rolled oats and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar and mashed banana. Topped with quick sugared pecans for a delightful crunch, this baked oatmeal is easy to prepare and serves as a nutritious, make-ahead dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
Ingredients
Quick Sugared Pecans
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- Dash of sea salt
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
Baked Oatmeal
- 2 cups rolled oats (gluten free, if necessary)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/4 cup milk (a dairy-free variety, if necessary)
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix!)
- 1/2 cup mashed banana (about 1 medium banana)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare Sugared Pecans: Melt the coconut oil in a bowl, then whisk together with the brown sugar and a dash of sea salt. Gently stir in the pecan halves until they are well coated. Set aside to allow the sugar to adhere to the pecans.
- Preheat and Grease: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch metal cake pan or ceramic pie dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, 1/2 cup brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, baking soda, sea salt, and ground nutmeg. Stir these dry ingredients until evenly mixed.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, milk, mashed banana, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Add the dry oat mixture to the large bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble for Baking: Pour the combined oatmeal mixture into the prepared pan. Evenly distribute the sugared pecans on top if using.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. Check doneness by gently shaking the pan; the center should be set and not jiggle, and it will resist gentle pressure with your finger. For ceramic dishes, you may need to bake up to 10 minutes longer.
- Serve: Serve the baked oatmeal immediately warm, optionally topped with maple syrup and whipped cream. Alternatively, let it cool completely, slice into portions, and refrigerate for up to 4 days for easy breakfasts later in the week.
Notes
- You can use a metal cake pan or ceramic pie dish; if using ceramic, increase baking time by up to 10 minutes.
- For a dairy-free or gluten-free version, choose appropriate milk and gluten-free oats.
- Do not use pumpkin pie mix; plain pumpkin purée is essential for correct flavor and texture.
- Optional toppings such as maple syrup and whipped cream enhance sweetness and creaminess but can be omitted for a less sweet dish.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American