These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a healthy, delicious fall treat made with wholesome ingredients like oats, pumpkin puree, and warm spices. Perfect for a snack or breakfast, they’re naturally sweetened and easy to make. Enjoy the cozy flavors of autumn with this simple and nutritious recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almond butter (or peanut butter), honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients:
Add the oats, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until fully incorporated. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips or raisins.
Bake:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy them as a delicious snack or breakfast treat!
Serving Tips:
Warm or Room Temperature: These bars can be enjoyed either warm or at room temperature. For a cozy treat, warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
Pairings: Pair the bars with a warm beverage like coffee, tea, or a pumpkin spice latte for a perfect fall experience. They also go well with a glass of milk or a dollop of yogurt for a more filling snack.
Toppings: Enhance the flavor by drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup on top. You can also add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few more chocolate chips for added indulgence.
Serving Size: Cut the bars into 12 equal squares for easy portioning. These are perfect for sharing at a fall gathering or as a grab-and-go snack.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store the pumpkin oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This is ideal if you plan to enjoy them within a short time.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the bars in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to a week. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing: To store the bars for an extended period, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw the bars at room temperature or warm them in the microwave.
Transporting: If you’re taking the bars to a gathering or packing them for lunch, place them in a sturdy container to prevent them from getting squished. Use parchment paper or wax paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
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FAQs:
Can I make these pumpkin oatmeal bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these bars gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats. Be sure to check all other ingredients for gluten-containing additives or cross-contamination, especially if you have celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance.
Can I substitute the almond butter or peanut butter with another ingredient?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter or peanut butter with other nut or seed butters like cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini. Each will slightly alter the flavor, but they all provide the necessary moisture and binding properties.
How can I make these bars vegan?
To make these pumpkin oatmeal bars vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey. Ensure that any add-ins like chocolate chips are dairy-free and vegan-friendly. Check all ingredient labels to confirm there are no animal-derived ingredients.
Can I add other mix-ins to these bars?
Absolutely! You can customize these bars with a variety of mix-ins. Try adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra texture and nutrition. Just be mindful of the overall quantity to avoid overcrowding the batter.
Conclusion:
These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall. With their wholesome ingredients and delicious taste, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Give them a try and savor the cozy taste of autumn!
📖 Recipe:
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Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to fall, there’s no better way to embrace the autumn season than with a batch of Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars. These delightful treats are not only packed with wholesome ingredients like oats and pumpkin puree but also offer a burst of warm spices that make them perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a tasty breakfast option, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, almond butter (or peanut butter), honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the oats, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt until fully incorporated. If using, fold in the chocolate chips or raisins.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Notes
These bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months.
Customize the bars with additional mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack, Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 bars
- Calories: 150 kcal per serving
