These Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Cups are a delightful and nutritious way to start your day or to enjoy as a snack. Packed with the flavors of autumn and the wholesomeness of oats and pumpkin, these oatmeal cups are naturally sweetened and customizable with your favorite toppings. Here’s how to whip up this super healthy treat:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 cup milk (dairy or your choice of non-dairy milk)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
- Raisins or dried cranberries
- Chocolate chips (dark chocolate chips for a healthier option)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a muffin tin by greasing the cups or lining them with muffin liners to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or honey), milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Toppings: If you’re using optional toppings like nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture or sprinkle them on top of each cup before baking.
- Fill the Muffin Cups: Distribute the oatmeal mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups. You can fill them nearly to the top as they won’t rise as much as regular muffins.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of an oatmeal cup comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the oatmeal cups cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These cups are delicious both warm and at room temperature.
- Store: Leftover oatmeal cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat in the microwave when ready to enjoy.
Enjoy your Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Cups as a convenient and healthy breakfast option or as a satisfying snack anytime. The pumpkin and spices make these oatmeal cups a cozy and comforting treat, perfect for fall or whenever you crave the warm flavors of pumpkin pie.