Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that combines cozy flavors and wholesome ingredients. These bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They can be enjoyed as a breakfast option, a healthy snack, or a sweet treat. With pumpkin puree, oats, and a touch of sweetness, these bars are perfect for fall or any time of the year.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars. First, they are easy to make. This recipe requires simple steps and ingredients that you may already have at home. Secondly, they are nutritious. The combination of pumpkin and oats makes for a healthy snack that can boost your energy. Additionally, these bars are very versatile. You can enjoy them on their own, with a cup of coffee, or as part of your breakfast.
Another great thing about this recipe is that it allows for variations. You can customize it to your taste by adding nuts, seeds, or other spices. These bars are also gluten-free if you use gluten-free oats. With dark chocolate chips included, they satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things healthy.
Lastly, these bars can be stored easily, making them perfect for meal prep. You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week, and enjoy them all week long.
HOW TO MAKE Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (150g)
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup coconut sugar
- ½ cup melted coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅔ cup oat flour (homemade; see notes)
- ¾ cup rolled oats (gluten-free or regular)
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ cup chocolate chips
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line or grease an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Add the homemade oat flour, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and baking soda into the mixture. Stir gently until well mixed. Then, fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter evenly into the lined pan. If you like, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for added sweetness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 24 – 26 minutes. Check the bars with a toothpick; it should come out clean, and the top should be golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars!
HOW TO SERVE Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars can be served in many ways. You can eat them plain or spread a little nut butter on top for an extra treat. They also pair well with fresh fruit like bananas or apples. These bars can be great for breakfast, so try heating them slightly and serving them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.
For a cozy morning, crumble them over yogurt or oatmeal. Add some seeds or nuts on top for extra crunch. You can even use these bars as a base for a mini parfait by layering yogurt and fruit between pieces of the bars.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
These bars are easy to store. Place the cooled bars in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, these bars freeze very well. Just wrap each bar in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take out a bar and let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Here are some serving suggestions for your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Top with Greek yogurt and drizzle honey for a balanced breakfast.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a nutritious snack.
- Crumble them over salad for added texture and flavor.
- Pair with a warm cup of cinnamon tea for a cozy evening treat.
VARIATIONS
There are endless ways to customize your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars. Here are some popular variations:
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
- Seeds: Mix in sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra nutrients.
- Dried Fruit: Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates for natural sweetness.
- Spices: If you love spices, feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor.
- Different Sweeteners: Try using honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a different taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! You can make them vegan by replacing the eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
2. Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, these bars can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free rolled oats and make sure your oat flour is gluten-free as well.
3. Can I use a different type of oil?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer. Coconut oil gives a nice flavor, but other oils will work too.
4. How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should also be golden brown.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Making Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars ahead of time is simple. You can prepare the batter a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Then, just bake them the next day.
Alternatively, bake a batch at the start of your week, let them cool completely, and store them in the fridge for a quick snack or breakfast throughout the week. These bars are perfect for meal prep and can save you time on busy days.
Enjoy your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars, warm or cold, and feel good knowing that you are fueling your body with healthy ingredients!
Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line or grease an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Add the homemade oat flour, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and baking soda into the mixture. Stir gently until well mixed. Then, fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter evenly into the lined pan. If you like, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for added sweetness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 24 – 26 minutes. Check the bars with a toothpick; it should come out clean, and the top should be golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars!