Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that combine the earthy flavors of pumpkin with the hearty texture of oats. Perfect for autumn, these bars offer a healthy alternative to traditional baked goods, packed with nutrients and suitable for a quick breakfast or a comforting snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• ½ cup almond butter or peanut butter
• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, pumpkin puree, almond butter (or peanut butter), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients until they are well mixed, ensuring a uniform texture.

Step 3: Add the dry ingredients to your mixture: baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 4: If you’re adding a twist to your bars, fold in raisins or chocolate chips now. This step is optional but can add a sweet or fruity note to your bars.

Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Ensure the surface is smooth for even baking.

Step 6: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan.

Step 7: After baking, allow the bars to cool in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares.

Variations

• Nut-Free: Replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and protein.

Cooking Note

Ensure that your pumpkin puree is not too watery as it can affect the texture of the bars. If it seems thin, strain it with a cheesecloth before use.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars warm or at room temperature. They pair excellently with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

Tips

• For a crisper top, broil the bars for 2-3 minutes after baking.
• Store the bars in an airtight container to keep them moist and chewy.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

25-30 minutes

Total Time

40 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approx. 180 per bar
• Protein: 4g per bar
• Sodium: 75mg per bar

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Simply roast it, puree it, and measure out 1 cup for this recipe.

Q: Are these bars freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap for best results.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a versatile, delicious, and healthful option suitable for various dietary needs. This recipe is straightforward and allows for customization, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy these bars as a nourishing start to your day or a satisfying snack

Print