Apple & Pumpkin Oatmeal

Apples and pumpkins are two of the most talked about topics on my site this time of year. Today, I will talk about a way to enjoy both of them at the same time, while doing a favor for your heart. This recipe for apple & pumpkin oatmeal is a healthy and fun way to start your day. The oatmeal is baked inside of a pie pumpkin to add flavor as well as giving you something to serve it in.

1 medium-sized pie (sugar) pumpkin (make sure you are getting a pie pumpkin)
1 cup old fashioned rolled oats (avoid using quick oats)
2 cups water
1 baking apple (peeled and cut into bite size pieces)
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
pinch of salt

Carefully remove the top of your pumpkin just as you would with a pumpkin you would carve. I repeat be careful. Use whatever tool you use to carve a pumpkin. A dull knife can easily lead to an ER visit. Next scoop out all the seeds along with the goo that comes with them. You can save the seeds to roast at a later time.

To prepare the oatmeal itself, combine the oats, water, apple, sugar, and spices in a bowl with a pinch of salt. What kind of apple should you use? Check out my list of apple reviews for ideas for good baking apples. Pour the oatmeal into your pumpkin. Set the oven to 375 degrees. Put the pumpkin onto a sheet pan and place into the oven without the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Check half way in to see how moist or dry the oatmeal is. If you think it is getting too dry add the top, making sure the stem is not touching the heat element in the oven. I did not put the top back on my oatmeal as it had plenty of liquid in it at the half way point. When finished let cool for a few minutes before enjoying. Make sure you scrape the sides of the pumpkin to mix the pumpkin meat into your oatmeal.