Fresh pumpkin clusters autumn treat (Printable Version)
Tender pumpkin clusters blend fresh pumpkin, oats, nuts, and warm spices for a cozy autumn snack.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pumpkin Base
01 - 2 cups fresh pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and diced (about 12.3 oz)
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 cup light brown sugar
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
06 - 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
07 - 1/8 teaspoon salt
→ Cluster Mixture
08 - 1 cup rolled oats
09 - 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
10 - 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
11 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
12 - 1 large egg
13 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
14 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
# How To Make:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Place the diced pumpkin in a small saucepan with 2 tablespoons water. Cover and cook over medium heat until very tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain excess liquid and mash until smooth.
03 - In a large bowl, mix the mashed pumpkin with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well blended.
04 - Add rolled oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and flour to the pumpkin mixture. Stir until evenly combined.
05 - In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with melted butter and vanilla extract. Fold into the pumpkin mixture until fully integrated.
06 - Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart.
07 - Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until edges turn golden brown and centers are set.
08 - Allow clusters to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- These clusters feel like a secret snack I whisper about only to close friends who appreciate simple seasonal magic
- I love how easily the flavors come together to make a comforting treat I reach for on chilly nights
02 -
- Don&t skip draining the pumpkin well after cooking or your clusters might be too wet and fall apart
- Adding a touch of vanilla at the end really pulls the flavors together in a surprising way
03 -
- Use fresh pumpkin over canned for the brightest flavor and texture
- A gentle mash keeps some texture which makes every bite interesting