As the air gets crisp and leaves change color, nothing beats the warm smell of pumpkin and spice in the kitchen. This pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal is perfect for fall. It has a cake-like texture, is full of nutrients, and adds a sweet touch with melted chocolate chips.
Pumpkin is full of vitamins A, B, and C, fiber, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It’s a great choice for a healthy breakfast. When you add the nutty taste of rolled oats, you get a meal that’s both nourishing and tasty. This recipe is great for any number of people, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal
As the weather gets cooler and the leaves change, this pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal is perfect for breakfast. It’s a vegetarian recipe filled with pumpkin spice flavors. Plus, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
Perfect for Fall Mornings
This baked oatmeal is the ultimate cozy breakfast for chilly autumn mornings. The mix of pumpkin, warm spices, and chocolate chips is delightful. It makes you feel cozy, like you’re wrapped in a warm sweater.
Healthy and Satisfying Breakfast Option
This kid-friendly baked oatmeal is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The pumpkin puree boosts vitamin A, and the rolled oats keep you full and energized. It’s a nutritious way to start your day.
Easy to Make Ahead of Time
This recipe is great because it’s easy to make ahead. Bake a batch on the weekend and enjoy it all week, hot or cold. It’s a convenient and hassle-free breakfast for busy mornings.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 171 |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Recipe
To make the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal, you’ll need a few key ingredients. First, you’ll need 3 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats or quick oats. These rolled oats are the base, giving the dish a hearty texture.
Next, you’ll need 15 ounces of pumpkin puree. It adds a lovely pumpkin flavor and makes the oatmeal moist and creamy.
For the chocolate, you’ll need 1 cup of chocolate chips. These semi-sweet chocolate chips add sweetness and richness, balancing out the pumpkin.
Spices and Flavorings
You’ll also need spices and flavorings to enhance the dish. You’ll need 1 teaspoon each of baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. These add a warm, autumnal aroma and flavor.
The recipe also calls for pure maple syrup and coconut sugar to sweeten the oatmeal. They add natural sweetness without refined sugar.
Optional ingredients include mashed banana, ground flaxseed, and chopped pecans. They can add extra nutrition and texture.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rolled Oats | 3 cups |
| Pumpkin Puree | 15 ounces |
| Chocolate Chips | 1 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Pumpkin Pie Spice | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Maple Syrup | Variable |
| Coconut Sugar | Variable |
How to Prepare the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal
Making the pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal is easy. Just follow a few steps to create a cozy breakfast. It’s great for easy preparation and baking instructions.
Preheat the Oven
First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure your oatmeal is perfectly baked.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a big bowl, mix together the dry stuff. You’ll need 2 1/2 cups of rolled oats, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice. Stir until it’s all combined.
Mix in Wet Ingredients
Now, mix the wet stuff in another bowl. Use 1 (15 ounce) can of pumpkin puree, 2 eggs, 1 1/4 cups of milk, and 1/3 cup of brown sugar. Whisk until smooth. Then, add the wet mix to the dry ingredients and mix gently. Fold in 1 1/4 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Bake to Perfection
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and fill it with the oatmeal mix. Bake for 35-45 minutes. It’s done when the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes before you serve it.
Follow these easy baking instructions to enjoy pumpkin and chocolate in a tasty breakfast. This warm, fragrant oatmeal will be a hit in your home this fall.
Tips for the Best Baked Oatmeal
Making the perfect pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal is about mastering a few key techniques. Choosing the right oats and baking it just right are crucial. These tips will help you get the best texture and flavor in your homemade oatmeal.
Choose the Right Oats
For the best oatmeal texture, choose sprouted rolled oats. They have more protein and fiber than regular oats. This makes your baked oatmeal heartier and more substantial.
Don’t Overmix
Don’t overmix the batter. Gently stir the ingredients together to keep the oatmeal light and fluffy. Overmixing can make it dense and heavy.
Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree
For the best pumpkin flavor, use fresh pumpkin puree. It’s sweeter and has a brighter color than canned. This will make your baked oatmeal taste and look better.
By following these simple baking tips and focusing on the oatmeal texture, you’ll make a pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal that’s delicious.
Customizing Your Baked Oatmeal
Baked oatmeal is super versatile. You can change it up to fit your taste and diet. Want to add crunch or try new sweeteners? The options are endless.
Add Nuts for Extra Crunch
Adding chopped nuts gives baked oatmeal a nice crunch. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds work great. Just mix in half a cup of your favorite nuts before baking.
Try Different Sweeteners
The recipe uses maple syrup and coconut sugar. But you can try other sweeteners too. Use honey, brown sugar, or mix them to find your perfect sweetness.
Explore Flavor Variations
Want to try something new? Swap pumpkin for butternut squash or mashed banana. Or add spices like ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg for unique flavors.
Baked oatmeal is all about making it your own. Whether you want crunch, a different sweetener, or a new flavor, you can do it. Get creative and enjoy making this dish your own.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Enjoying the delicious pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal doesn’t have to end after the first serving. With proper storage, you can savor the flavors of this comforting breakfast for days to come. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking to freeze portions for future enjoyment, we’ve got you covered with our storage recommendations.
Refrigeration Guidelines
For short-term storage, the baked oatmeal can be kept in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. Simply transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the oatmeal in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or plant-based milk to help rehydrate the texture.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment
To extend the shelf life of your pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal, consider freezing it. Divide the cooled oatmeal into individual portions and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn and lock in the flavors. The frozen baked oatmeal can be stored for up to 3-4 months. When ready to serve, thaw the oatmeal in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or until heated through.
By following these simple meal prep and storage recommendations, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of this pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal long after the initial baking. Whether you opt for refrigerating or freezing, your future self will thank you for planning ahead and preparing this delicious breakfast option.
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal is a delightful breakfast treat. It pairs well with many toppings and accompaniments. For a classic breakfast, serve it warm with a drizzle of milk or a dollop of creamy yogurt. The creaminess of the dairy complements the rich pumpkin and chocolate flavors perfectly.
Top with Fresh Fruit
To add a fresh and vibrant touch, top it with sliced seasonal fruits like bananas, apples, or berries. The sweetness and juiciness of the fruit beautifully contrast the hearty oats. They lend a lovely presentation to your breakfast.
For an extra decadent treat, try topping the warm oatmeal with a spoonful of whipped cream when the chocolate chips are still melted and gooey. This creates a dessert-like experience that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Regardless of how you choose to serve your pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal, it pairs exceptionally well with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. This makes for a complete and satisfying breakfast experience.
Nutritional Benefits of Baked Oatmeal
This pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal is not only tasty, but also full of nutrients. It’s a great choice for a healthy breakfast. Let’s explore the key nutrients it offers.
Rich in Fiber
The main ingredient, rolled oats, is high in dietary fiber. Each serving has about 2 grams of fiber. This helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
Packed with Vitamins
The pumpkin puree in this recipe is packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s a rich source of vitamin A, with over 2,000 IU per serving. This meets more than 100% of your daily needs.
Pumpkin is also a good source of vitamin C, with 1 mg per serving. It has notable amounts of vitamins B, E, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.
Adding this pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal to your breakfast routine is a smart choice. It gives your body a nourishing start to the day. Enjoy the delicious taste and know you’re fueling your body with healthy ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ever wondered about making the tasty Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal? You might have questions about swapping out ingredients or following certain diets. Don’t worry, we’ve got answers for you!
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Yes, you can! This recipe is super flexible. You can swap out ingredients to match your taste or dietary needs. For instance, try regular milk instead of almond milk. Or, use cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger instead of pumpkin pie spice.
If chocolate chips aren’t your thing, no worries. You can use other chips or even chopped nuts for a nice crunch.
How Do I Make it Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, just replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flax with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. Use plant-based milk and protein powder instead. Adjust the sweeteners to your liking, and add mashed banana for extra sweetness and binding.
This recipe is all about being flexible. Feel free to try different dietary restrictions and ingredient substitutions. You’ll end up with a yummy breakfast that’s just right for you.
Variations on Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal
The classic pumpkin chocolate chip baked oatmeal is a fall favorite. But, there are many creative recipe adaptations to try. These variations offer different flavors and textures, perfect for any taste or season.
Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal
Try the maple pecan baked oatmeal for a nutty twist. Swap chocolate chips for chopped pecans and use maple syrup instead of pumpkin puree. The pecans and maple syrup add a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs well with warm spices.
Banana-Chocolate Chip Version
For a tropical twist, try the banana-chocolate chip baked oatmeal. Mash ripe bananas and mix them into the oatmeal batter with chocolate chips. The bananas’ natural sweetness pairs well with the chocolate, making for a rich and energizing breakfast.
There are many more pumpkin-inspired recipe adaptations to explore. Try Pumpkin Pie Smoothie, Pumpkin Pie Bliss Balls, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins, and Pumpkin Twix Bars. These options offer unique flavors while keeping the comforting essence of baked oatmeal. They let you enjoy seasonal flavors in creative ways.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal | Rolled oats, pecans, maple syrup | Nutty, caramelized, warm spices | 6 servings |
| Banana-Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal | Rolled oats, ripe bananas, chocolate chips | Tropical, chocolatey, naturally sweet | 6 servings |
Conclusion
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal is a great breakfast for fall. It’s full of comforting flavors and healthy ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it a perfect start to your day.
Final Thoughts on Enjoying Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast during the week. It’s easy to make ahead and can be customized to fit your diet. Enjoy the taste of pumpkin pie in a healthy, fiber-rich way. It’s a cozy and delicious fall treat.