Introduction
Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this pumpkin oat bake is the perfect fall-inspired dish for your breakfast or brunch table. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this delightful recipe combines the rich taste of pumpkin, the creaminess of mascarpone, and the crunchy texture of toasted pecans. Easy to prepare and full of nutrients, it will certainly become a family favorite!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup pumpkin puree
2 1/4 cups quick oats
8 ounces mascarpone cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup milk (any variety)
2/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/3 cup canola oil (or melted butter or coconut oil)
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
2/3 cup toasted pecans, coarsely chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
Heavy cream for serving (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Yield: Serves about 8
With simple steps to follow, this pumpkin oat bake is not only delicious but also a nourishing way to start your day. Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of heavy cream for an indulgent treat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the quick oats, brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt thoroughly.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, lightly beaten egg, milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and canola oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Mix Ingredients Together
Add the wet mixture to the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir everything together until just combined, ensuring no dry spots remain.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the combined oatmeal mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Prepare Mascarpone Cheese
In a small bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese with a bit of honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar to sweeten it to your taste.
Step 7: Add Mascarpone Topping
Dollop the sweetened mascarpone cheese over the surface of the oatmeal mixture, creating small pockets of cream throughout.
Step 8: Add Pecans
Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the top of the mixture to add a crunchy texture.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is set.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes before cutting into portions.
Step 11: Serve
Serve the baked oatmeal warm, optionally drizzling with heavy cream for added richness.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave before serving.
Substitutions
Feel free to substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar or a suitable sweetener, and adjust the pecans to your preference, using nuts like walnuts or almonds if desired.
Vegan Option
For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a non-dairy milk alternative.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Combine quick oats, brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a bowl to ensure an even distribution of flavors and leavening agents.
Whisking Wet Ingredients
Thoroughly whisk together pumpkin puree, egg, milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and canola oil until the mixture is smooth to create a cohesive base for your oatmeal.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined to maintain the texture of the oats.
Dolloping Mascarpone
Spoon sweetened mascarpone cheese over the oatmeal mixture, allowing for beautiful, creamy pockets of flavor throughout the dish as it bakes.
Baking
Bake the oatmeal in a preheated oven until the edges are golden and the center is set, ensuring a pleasing texture and flavor development.
Cooling
Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before serving, as this will enhance the flavors and make it easier to cut into portions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a drizzle of heavy cream for a rich and indulgent finish.
FAQ
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, you can use old-fashioned oats, but the texture will be chewier and may require a longer baking time.
What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?
You can use cream cheese or ricotta mixed with a bit of cream for a similar texture and flavor.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free substitute for the mascarpone cheese and choose almond milk or another plant-based milk.
Can I add other nuts or toppings to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for the best taste.
Conclusion
This baked pumpkin oatmeal is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, offering a warm and comforting dish perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. The combination of pumpkin puree, oats, and toasted pecans creates a wholesome meal, while the mascarpone cheese adds a rich creaminess that elevates the dish. Enjoy it warm, perhaps with a drizzle of heavy cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Variations with Fruits
Consider adding diced apples or pears to the oatmeal mixture for a fruity twist. Alternatively, you can fold in some fresh or frozen blueberries for a burst of sweetness.
Nutty Alternatives
If you want to experiment with different nuts, try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. You could also add a variety of seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
Flavor Enhancements
Enhance the flavor by incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or for a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper could be interesting.
Sweetness Adjustments
For those who prefer a sweeter oatmeal, feel free to increase the amount of maple syrup or consider adding a handful of chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness.
Vegan Adjustments
To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute the egg with a flax egg and replace the mascarpone cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt or cashew cream.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the baked oatmeal with a side of yogurt or serve it with a scoop of ice cream for a delectable dessert option.
