Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars
Indulge in the delightful taste of oatmeal pumpkin bars that bring together the warmth of fall spices and the healthy goodness of oats. This recipe highlights pumpkin puree and whole ingredients, creating a scrumptious treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re seeking a cozy comfort food or a nutritious option for your family, these oatmeal pumpkin bars hold the answer.
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Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars
These oatmeal pumpkin bars are not just delicious; they are also packed with fiber, making them a wholesome treat. With a blend of spices, the bars provide an aromatic flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for using up leftover pumpkin puree from fall recipes. Enjoy the chewy texture, nutty crunch from pecans, and the nutritious benefits of oats.
How to Make Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
1 cup flour
1 cup rolled (old fashioned) oats
1.5 tsp pumpkin pie spice
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp baking sodaWet Ingredients:
2 eggs (lightly beaten)
½ cup pure pumpkin puree
½ cup natural style applesauce
½ cup light brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extractAdd-ins:
¼ cup pepitas
¼ cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and grease the top of the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients – flour, oats, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. Stir to combine.
In a large bowl, beat the two eggs. Add the pumpkin puree, applesauce, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.
Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir to blend, making sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
Add half of the pepitas and pecans into the batter. Pour the mixture into the prepared 8×8 pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining pepitas and pecans over the top of the batter.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the oat bars are cooked through to the center. Allow them to cool slightly before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars
These oatmeal pumpkin bars are versatile in how they can be served. Enjoy them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for breakfast, or pair them with a cup of coffee for a mid-afternoon snack. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a sweet finish or serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
How to Store Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars
To store your oatmeal pumpkin bars, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week, or freeze the bars for up to three months. When freezing, wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars Perfect
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your pumpkin puree is fresh. Canned pumpkin can work, but using homemade adds a richer flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher bars.
- Add More Nuts or Seeds: Feel free to increase the amount of pepitas or pecans, or substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds for added texture and flavor.
Flavor Variations
You can customize your oatmeal pumpkin bars with various mix-ins or flavors. Try adding chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped apples for a fruity twist. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the bar’s flavor, while lemon zest can provide a refreshing zing.
Pro Tips for Success
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the bars. If it comes out clean, they are done baking.
- Test Batch: If you’re unsure about flavors, bake a small test batch before committing to larger quantities.
- Nutrition Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder or chia seeds to increase your bars’ nutritional value.
FAQs About Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats give a chewier texture to the bars, you can use quick oats if that is what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, and quick oats may absorb moisture differently.
Can I substitute the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like honey or maple syrup. If using liquid sweeteners, reduce the amount of other liquids slightly to maintain the right consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make these oatmeal pumpkin bars vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Oatmeal pumpkin bars are a fun, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall. The ease of preparation and the nostalgic taste make these bars a perfect addition to your recipe collection. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy them as a tasty snack, you’ll find that these oatmeal pumpkin bars become a beloved favorite. Give them a try today and savor the delightful blend of flavors!
Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and grease the top of the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients – flour, oats, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. Stir to combine.
- In a large bowl, beat the two eggs. Add the pumpkin puree, applesauce, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir to blend, making sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Add half of the pepitas and pecans into the batter. Pour the mixture into the prepared 8×8 pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining pepitas and pecans over the top of the batter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the oat bars are cooked through to the center. Allow them to cool slightly before slicing into squares.
