Embrace the warmth of autumn with this delightful Pumpkin and Apple Oatmeal Bake. This dish combines the hearty goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and apple, creating a nourishing and satisfying meal perfect for breakfast or dessert. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, this oatmeal bake is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s an excellent way to incorporate seasonal produce into your diet while enjoying the comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. This recipe is versatile, allowing for variations with nuts and seeds, making it a great option for the whole family.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Oats: 2 cups (200 g) of oat flakes
• Water: 1.5 cups (300 ml)
• Pumpkin: 250 g, peeled and diced
• Apple: 1 large, peeled and diced
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Nuts: 2 tablespoons (40 g), chopped (such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• Raisins: 1 tablespoon (optional)
• Olive Oil: 1 teaspoon, plus more for greasing the pan
• Vegetable Oil: For frying
• Pumpkin Seeds: For topping
• Desiccated Coconut: For garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oats

1. Soak the Oats: In a bowl, combine 2 cups of oat flakes with 1.5 cups of water. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes. This soaking process helps to soften the oats, making them more palatable and easier to digest.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin and Apple

2. Prep the Pumpkin: Peel and dice 250 grams of pumpkin into small cubes. This allows for even cooking and a nice texture in the final dish.
3. Prep the Apple: Peel and dice 1 apple. Choose a sweet variety, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, to enhance the overall flavor of the bake.

Step 3: Cook the Pumpkin

4. Cook Pumpkin: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over low heat. Add the diced pumpkin and cook, covered, for about 5-8 minutes until it softens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add Apple: After the pumpkin has softened, add the diced apple to the pan. Cook together for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the apple to soften and mingle with the pumpkin flavors.

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients

6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked oats, the cooked pumpkin and apple mixture, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
7. Add Nuts and Raisins: Fold in the chopped nuts and raisins if using. These will add texture and richness to the bake.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
9. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures an easy release of the baked oatmeal once it’s done.

Step 6: Bake

10. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
11. Add Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkle pumpkin seeds over the top for added crunch and nutrition.
12. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal has set.

Step 7: Serve

13. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the oatmeal bake to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, optionally garnished with desiccated coconut and additional pumpkin seeds for extra flair.

Cooking Tips

• Customization: Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Pecans, almonds, and cranberries can also work beautifully.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less sweetener, or try using honey or maple syrup instead of raisins.
• Pumpkin Puree: If you’re short on time, you can use canned pumpkin puree instead of fresh pumpkin. Just reduce the baking time slightly as the puree is already cooked.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Freezing: This oatmeal bake freezes well. Cut it into portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in freezer-safe containers. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 7 g (mostly from nuts and olive oil)
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugars: 5 g (natural sugars from fruits)

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes! Ensure you are using certified gluten-free oats to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
2. Can I substitute the olive oil?
   • Yes, you can use any neutral vegetable oil, such as canola or sunflower oil, in place of olive oil.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
   • To make this dish vegan, simply omit the honey and use a plant-based milk alternative instead of regular milk if desired.
4. What other fruits can I add?
   • Feel free to substitute or add other fruits such as pears, bananas, or even berries for added flavor and nutrients.
5. Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
   • Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin and Apple Oatmeal Bake is not just a delicious dish; it’s also a nutritious way to start your day or enjoy as a snack. The combination of oats, pumpkin, and apple creates a hearty, comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, this bake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it warm from the oven or as a make-ahead breakfast option throughout the week. Happy baking!