Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

These Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the essence of fall. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and packed with wholesome ingredients like oat flour, pumpkin puree, and rolled oats, they make for an ideal breakfast, snack, or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing them at a gathering, these bars are gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These bars can be prepared in just 5 minutes and baked in about 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and chocolate chips ensures each bite is moist and bursting with flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with oats and pumpkin, these bars offer a healthy dose of fiber and essential nutrients.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as a breakfast bar, an afternoon snack, or a guilt-free dessert.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Made with oat flour and rolled oats that are naturally gluten-free, these bars cater to those with gluten sensitivities.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for creating evenly baked bars that are easy to cut into squares.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all your ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps incorporate air into the batter, ensuring light and fluffy texture.

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)
• ¾ cup rolled oats (gluten-free or regular)
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tsp baking soda

Mix-ins

• ½ cup chocolate chips

How to Make Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line or grease an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier later.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. 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: Add Dry Ingredients

1. Add in the homemade oat flour, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and baking soda.
2. Mix until just combined.
3. Gently fold in the chocolate chips for added sweetness.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

1. Evenly pour the batter into the lined pan.
2. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for decoration.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 24 – 26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

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

How to Serve Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

These Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a snack on the go, or a delightful dessert, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Breakfast Delight

• Pair with Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
• Top with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries for a burst of flavor.

Snack Time

• Serve with a dollop of nut butter to enhance the taste and add healthy fats.
• Enjoy them alongside a cup of herbal tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Dessert Option

• Drizzle with a little maple syrup or melted dark chocolate for an indulgent treat.
• Serve warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a comforting dessert.

On-the-Go

• Pack them in lunchboxes for an easy, portable snack during busy days.
• Crumble over oatmeal or smoothie bowls for extra texture and nutrition.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

To ensure your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: For the best flavor, opt for homemade or high-quality canned pumpkin.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Proper measurement ensures that your bars have the right texture and moisture level.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold ingredients together to keep the bars light and fluffy.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to test if they are done; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
• Let cool before cutting: Allowing them to cool helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
• Store correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for lasting freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A nutritious side that adds creaminess; simply mix chia seeds with plant-based milk and let sit overnight.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances the sweetness of the bars.
3. Cottage Cheese: A protein-rich option that complements the flavors well; consider adding cinnamon for extra spice.
4. Nutty Granola: A crunchy side that adds texture; serve alongside for added crunch and nutrition.
5. Smoothie Bowl: Blend fruits and greens together, then top with granola or nuts as an energizing complement.
6. Herbal Tea Infusion: A warm drink that pairs well; consider chai or ginger tea to enhance fall flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that could affect your results. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the egg: Eggs provide moisture and binding. Without them, your bars may crumble.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Just mix until combined for a soft texture.
• Using regular flour instead of oat flour: For gluten-free options, oat flour is essential. Stick with it for the best results.
• Not measuring pumpkin puree accurately: Too much or too little can alter the texture. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting the bars too soon can cause them to fall apart. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm bars for about 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on high for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars:

Can I use other sweeteners?

Yes, you can substitute honey or agave syrup for maple syrup if desired.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These oatmeal bars make a great snack or breakfast option for kids due to their wholesome ingredients.

How do I make these bars vegan?

Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Can I add nuts or seeds?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate walnuts, pecans, or chia seeds for added nutrition and crunch.

How long do they last at room temperature?

These bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days but will stay fresher longer in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

These Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough to serve as breakfast, snacks, or desserts. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping chocolate chips with dried fruit. Give this recipe a try — it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!