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If you’re looking for a cozy, wholesome breakfast that feels like autumn hugs you from the inside, this Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Packed with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and warming spices, it’s comforting yet lightly sweetened, offering a wonderful texture that’s soft but still hearty thanks to the oats. It’s a brilliant way to sneak some seasonal flavor into your morning routine without any fuss, and once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever started your day without it.

Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays a key role in making sure the dish is flavorful, moist, and perfectly spiced to celebrate the essence of fall mornings.

Old-fashioned oats: These provide the hearty base texture that bakes up soft but chewy.
Pumpkin puree: The star of the dish, bringing moisture, sweetness, and that unmistakable autumn flavor.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich caramel note and balances the spices smoothly.
Large eggs: These bind everything together while keeping the oatmeal nice and tender.
Pumpkin pie spice: A signature blend that gives the recipe its warm, aromatic soul.
Cinnamon: Enhances the cozy spice profile with a hint of sweetness.
Nutmeg: Adds a subtle, slightly nutty warmth to the flavor mix.
Salt: Just a pinch to sharpen flavors and balance sweetness.
Baking powder: Provides lift so the oatmeal stays light rather than dense.
Vanilla extract: Brings a sweet, floral layer that rounds out the spices beautifully.
Milk of choice: Keeps everything moist and creamy, and you can easily use dairy or any plant-based option.
Honey or maple syrup (optional): Perfect for drizzling on top to add a touch of natural sweetness before serving.

How to Make Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper—this ensures your oatmeal bakes evenly and releases easily afterward without sticking.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

Combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk in a large bowl. Whisk them until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This step is key to getting a uniform batter that will bake up creamy and rich.

Step 3: Add and Stir in the Dry Ingredients

Next, toss in the oats, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Stir everything gently but thoroughly so the oats are fully coated and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mix. This mix will start to smell irresistible right away.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set

Pour your oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for the center to be set and the edges to turn a lovely golden brown — that’s the sign your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe is ready to enjoy!

Step 5: Cool and Optional Toppings

Once baked, let the oatmeal cool for a few minutes so it firms up slightly. If you want to sweeten things up a bit more, drizzle honey or maple syrup on top just before serving. The warm oatmeal soaked with a sticky drizzle is simply divine.

How to Serve Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, adds a lovely crunch that contrasts with the soft baked oats beautifully. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream for some cool creaminess that balances the warm spices.

Side Dishes

Pair this pumpkin baked oatmeal with fresh fruit like sliced apples or a handful of berries to add brightness and a juicy contrast. If you want something savory, crispy bacon or sausage on the side is a classic breakfast match that brings wonderful balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve scoops of the baked oatmeal in individual ramekins straight from the oven for an elegant touch. You can also top it with a sprinkle of granola for extra texture or swirl some peanut butter or nut butter on top right before serving for an indulgent finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’s perfect for quick weekday breakfasts or snacks.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, baking and then freezing portions is a fantastic option. Wrap individual slices or the whole dish in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for easy mornings ahead.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds until warmed through, or pop them in a toaster oven for a slightly crisp top. Adding a little extra splash of milk before reheating can bring back that fresh-baked creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use 100% pure pumpkin puree for this recipe because canned pumpkin pie filling often contains added sugars and spices, which can throw off the balance of flavors and sweetness in the baked oatmeal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats, as regular oats can sometimes be cross-contaminated with gluten. This way, your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe stays safe and delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based milk. This will keep the dish moist and hold its shape well.

How sweet is this baked oatmeal? Should I add more sugar?

This recipe is moderately sweet thanks to the brown sugar and natural pumpkin sweetness. You can adjust the sugar to taste, but keep in mind that toppings like honey or maple syrup also add sweetness when serving.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes! Stir in your favorite mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or mini chocolate chips before baking for extra texture and flavor surprises throughout the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Recipe is such a comforting and versatile dish that brings the best seasonal flavors right to your breakfast table. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy mornings or serving it fresh to friends and family, it’s sure to become a beloved staple that warms your soul. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be reaching for it again and again as those crisp autumn days roll in.