Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

These Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a delightful way to enjoy fall flavors in a nutritious and convenient treat. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, these bars are moist and satisfying. Made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree and oat flour, they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free. With a touch of maple syrup for sweetness and rich chocolate chips, they cater to various occasions and are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy them as breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet treat after dinner.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with pumpkin puree and oats, these bars provide essential nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Naturally Sweetened: Say goodbye to refined sugars! These bars use maple syrup for natural sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with oat flour and rolled oats, they are perfect for those avoiding gluten.

Tools and Preparation

Getting the right tools ready is key to making your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars efficiently. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking pan (8×8)
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows ample space to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that the wet ingredients are well combined for a uniform batter.
• Baking pan: The right size pan is essential for even baking; an 8×8 pan works perfectly for this recipe.

Ingredients

These super moist healthy pumpkin oatmeal bars are naturally sweetened with maple syrup and made with oat flour, pumpkin puree, and rolled oats. The perfect quick and easy Fall breakfast, snack, and dessert! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free.

Wet 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

Dry Ingredients

• 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

How to Make Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line or grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in:
1. The homemade oat flour, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and baking soda.
2. Gently mix until just combined.
3. Fold in the chocolate chips carefully.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Evenly pour the batter into the lined baking pan. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired. Bake for 24 – 26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars!

How to Serve Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

These delicious healthy pumpkin oatmeal bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a quick breakfast or a sweet treat, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Nut Butter

• Almond butter: Spread almond butter on top for added creaminess and protein.
• Peanut butter: A classic pairing that adds flavor and richness to your bars.

Topped with Yogurt

• Greek yogurt: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness.
• Coconut yogurt: For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt, which adds a tropical flair.

Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup

• Honey drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness and gives additional moisture.
• Maple syrup: For those who love maple flavor, a splash on top elevates the taste.

Served with Fruit

• Fresh berries: Pair your bars with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing touch.
• Banana slices: Top with banana slices for extra sweetness and creaminess.

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How to Perfect Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

To ensure your healthy pumpkin oatmeal bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the freshness of your eggs and pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
• Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for ingredients like oat flour and rolled oats to maintain texture.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to avoid tough bars; overmixing can impact the texture.
• Cool before cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing; this helps them hold their shape better.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Pairing side dishes with your healthy pumpkin oatmeal bars can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the flavors.
2. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding offers extra fiber and healthy fats, complementing your bars nicely.
3. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up a smoothie bowl filled with greens and fruits for a nutritious sidekick.
4. Cottage Cheese: High in protein, cottage cheese pairs well with the bar’s sweetness while adding creaminess.
5. Nuts & Seeds Mix: A handful of nuts or seeds provides crunch and healthy fats, making it an excellent snack alongside your bars.
6. Herbal Tea: Enjoy a warm cup of herbal tea for a soothing beverage that pairs perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Using the Wrong Flour: Not using oat flour can change the texture of your bars. Always measure and use the right type for best results.
• Skipping the Pumpkin Spice: Omitting pumpkin pie spice means missing out on flavor. Make sure to include it for that cozy fall taste.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined for a fluffy texture.
• Ignoring Bake Time: Baking too long can dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and test with a toothpick a few minutes before the timer goes off.
• Not Letting Them Cool: Cutting into the bars too soon can cause them to crumble. Allow at least 10 minutes of cooling time.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezing Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

• Freeze bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer-safe container.
• They can last up to 3 months frozen without losing flavor.

Reheating Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 20-30 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars.

Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup if desired. Just remember that different sweeteners may change the flavor slightly.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Using gluten-free rolled oats and oat flour ensures these bars are safe for those avoiding gluten.

How can I customize my Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars?

You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. Feel free to adjust spices based on your preference as well!

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan version without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

These Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With endless customization options, you can make them your own while enjoying a wholesome treat that is both satisfying and nutritious. Give this recipe a try today!