Name: Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 36 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; ½ cup pumpkin puree (150g); ⅓ cup pure maple syrup; ¼ cup coconut sugar; ½ cup melted coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅔ cup oat flour (homemade suggested); ¾ cup rolled oats (gluten-free or regular); 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup chocolate chips

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Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a delicious way to embrace the flavors of fall without compromising on health. Imagine waking up to the fragrant aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen. These bars are not just treats; they’re packed with wholesome ingredients that offer a balance of nutrition and flavor. Whether you are looking for a hearty breakfast or a midday snack, these delightful bars promise to keep you satisfied. Made with pumpkin puree, oats, and a touch of sweetness, they are both nutritious and tasty.

In this recipe, I’ll guide you through creating Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars that are simple to make and even easier to enjoy. They’re the kind of treat that brings everyone together, and you might just find them disappearing quicker than you can bake them. So grab your mixing bowls and let’s get started on making these scrumptious pumpkin bars!

Why This Recipe Works

The balance of ingredients in these Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars ensures that every bite is packed with moisture and flavor. By using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and coconut sugar, your bars maintain a rich depth without overwhelming your taste buds. Plus, the combination of rolled oats and oat flour makes the texture hearty and satisfying, giving you that comforting feeling of eating something wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

These bars are not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic option for breakfast or snacks. You’ll appreciate that they’re gluten-free and dairy-free, catering to various dietary needs. What’s more, the burst of fall flavors will evoke cozy feelings, making every bite a reason to smile.

Ingredients

2 large eggs
½ cup pumpkin puree (150g)
⅓ cup pure maple syrup
¼ cup coconut sugar
½ cup melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅔ cup oat flour (homemade suggested)
¾ cup rolled oats (gluten-free or regular)
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup chocolate chips

Decadent Pumpkin Mixture

Mix the Base Ingredients

Start your journey by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until everything is well-combined. Take your time with this step; a smooth blend sets the stage for the perfect bars.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

Next, it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Add the homemade oat flour, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and baking soda into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. This part builds the body of your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars.

Fold in the Chocolate

Now for the best part—gently fold in the chocolate chips. This step ensures an even distribution of chocolate, so every bite has that delightful sweetness.

Baking the Bars

Prepare the Baking Dish

Let’s get your oven ready. Preheat it to 350ºF. Grab an 8×8 pan and line it or grease it with parchment paper. This helps make the bars easy to remove after baking.

Pour and Bake

Evenly pour the batter into the prepared pan. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, sprinkle a few more chocolate chips on top. Bake these beauties for 24 to 26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges look golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Once out of the oven, let the bars cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. After that, it’s time to cut them into squares. The wait will be worth it!

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt—you’ll love the creamy contrast.
Enjoy with a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
Pair your bars with fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast that will energize your day.

Tips for Success

To make these bars turn out perfectly, remember to ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending. Also, use the toothpick test; it should come out moist but clean. Lastly, store any extra bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the chocolate chips with nuts for added crunch. Experiment with different spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, to discover unique flavor profiles. For a sweet twist, consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.

Storage Tips

To keep your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, pop them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months.

Pairing Ideas

For an extra protein boost, enjoy these bars with creamy almond butter. They also pair wonderfully with a refreshing side of fruit salad, providing balance to your meal. To enhance the experience further, complement your bars with a rich cup of spiced chai tea.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?
Yes, regular all-purpose flour can be used, but it will no longer be gluten-free.
How can I make these bars vegan?
Simply substitute the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce and use a plant-based yogurt instead of dairy.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can work as alternatives, though they will slightly modify the overall taste.
Are these bars suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They store well in the refrigerator, making them great for meal prep.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center, and the edges should be lightly browned.

These Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are the perfect blend of health and indulgence. With wholesome ingredients, they cater to various dietary preferences while still delivering on taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy them warm or cold, and don’t forget to get creative with your favorite twists!