Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious breakfast option, these pumpkin oatmeal cups are a perfect choice! Packed with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, they are customizable to your taste. You can enjoy them as a wholesome breakfast or a quick snack throughout the day. The addition of chocolate chips or the creamy mascarpone cheese filling offers delightful variations to keep your mornings exciting.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
3½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1¼ cups milk (any variety)
2 large eggs
⅓ cup maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¾ cup chocolate chips (optional)
8 ounces mascarpone cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: About 12 muffins
Enjoy these delightful pumpkin oatmeal cups warm from the oven or store them in the refrigerator for a convenient breakfast option throughout the week!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and kosher salt.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, ⅓ cup maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Step 5: Prepare Cheesecake Mixture (Optional)
In a small bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup until smooth.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups
Fill each muffin cup halfway with the oatmeal mixture. If making the cheesecake version, add a small dollop of the mascarpone mixture into each cup. Then, top with more oatmeal mixture until the muffin cups are nearly full.
Step 7: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)
If making the chocolate chip version, fold the chocolate chips into the oatmeal mixture before filling the muffin cups.
Step 8: Bake Those Cups
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the oatmeal cups are set and lightly golden on top.
Step 9: Cool Down
Allow the oatmeal cups to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Storage or Enjoy
Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
Storage Tips
Store the oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for best quality.
Variations
You can customize the recipe by adding nuts or dried fruits, or by substituting yogurt for mascarpone cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the muffins warm with a drizzle of additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor.
Cook techniques
Prepping the Muffin Tin
Line your muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the oatmeal cups.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and kosher salt thoroughly. This ensures that the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth in a separate bowl. This step incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in fluffier oatmeal cups.
Folding the Mixtures
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently to avoid overmixing. This helps maintain a light texture in the finished product.
Optional Cheesecake Layer
For a rich pumpkin cheesecake variation, blend the mascarpone cheese with maple syrup until smooth and use it as a layer within the oatmeal cups.
Adding Chocolate Chips
If you prefer a sweeter touch, fold chocolate chips into the oatmeal mixture before filling the muffin cups. This will distribute the chocolate evenly throughout.
Baking Time
Bake in a preheated oven until the oatmeal cups are set and lightly golden on top, typically between 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Cooling Process
After baking, allow the oatmeal cups to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart while still warm.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their freshness for later enjoyment.
FAQ
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can substitute quick oats, but the texture may be slightly different, resulting in a less chewy oatmeal cup.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternative sweeteners if you prefer.
Can I make these oatmeal cups gluten-free?
Yes, by using certified gluten-free oats, you can make these oatmeal cups gluten-free.
Is it possible to freeze the oatmeal cups?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
How can I make these oatmeal cups vegan?
To make them vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk. Ensure that the maple syrup is also verified as vegan.
Can I add nuts or seeds to the mixture?
Yes, adding nuts or seeds can enhance the texture and provide additional nutritional benefits to the oatmeal cups.
Conclusion
These oatmeal cups are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack. The combination of pumpkin puree and rolled oats not only provides a warm, comforting taste but also packs in health benefits. You can enjoy them plain or customize them with chocolate chips or a rich mascarpone filling. Allow your creativity to shine while exploring different variations!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet treat that combines the richness of pumpkin with the indulgence of chocolate.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups
Substitute pumpkin puree with unsweetened applesauce and add diced apples and cinnamon for a fall-inspired breakfast.
Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cups
Incorporate mashed bananas and peanut butter into the mixture for a deliciously nutty flavor profile.
Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cups
Add grated carrots, walnuts, and a dash of cinnamon for a twist reminiscent of classic carrot cake.
Coconut Almond Oatmeal Cups
Mix in shredded coconut and chopped almonds for a tropical twist that adds both sweetness and crunch.
Maple Pecan Oatmeal Cups
Fold in chopped pecans and substitute additional maple syrup for enhanced flavor, creating a rich and nutty treat.
