These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a tasty treat that combines the goodness of oats with the cozy flavor of pumpkin. They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack!
What I love about these bars is how easy they are to make. You just mix everything together, bake, and enjoy. Plus, they smell amazing while baking—just like fall! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats create a chewy texture in the bars. Quick oats can be used if you prefer a softer texture, but I recommend sticking with rolled oats for the best results.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use plain pumpkin puree, not the spiced filling. If you have fresh pumpkin on hand, you can roast and puree it as an alternative.
Natural Sweetener: Maple syrup gives a nice flavor, but honey works just as well. If vegan, go for maple syrup or agave nectar. You could also adjust sweetness based on preference; try using less if you like it less sweet!
Coconut Oil or Butter: Coconut oil adds a slight coconut flavor, while butter offers a richer taste. If you’re lactose-free, stick with coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
Spices: The spices add warmth and depth. If you don’t have ground ginger or nutmeg, you can skip them or use a pumpkin spice blend instead. Adjust the spices to your taste for a personalized flavor!
How Do I Mix Everything Together Without Making a Mess?
Mixing can be tricky, but here’s how to keep it clean and effective:
- Use a large mixing bowl, giving enough space for stirring without spilling.
- Start with dry ingredients (oats and spices). This helps prevent clumping when you add wet ingredients.
- When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, use a spatula or wooden spoon. Fold gently until combined, rather than stirring vigorously.
- For folding in the chocolate chips, it’s best to do this at the end to keep them intact!
With these tips, you’ll keep your kitchen tidy and have perfectly mixed bars ready to bake in no time!
How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup natural sweetener (such as maple syrup or honey)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 25 to 30 minutes to bake, plus a little time to let the bars cool. Altogether, you’ll spend around 40 minutes before enjoying these delicious treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. This will help make it easy to remove the bars once they are baked.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, salt, and baking powder. Stir everything together so that the spices are evenly mixed throughout the oats. This step is essential to ensure each bite is packed with flavor!
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, your choice of natural sweetener (like maple syrup or honey), melted coconut oil (or butter), and vanilla extract until you have a smooth mixture. This will be the base of your bars, adding moisture and flavor.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is fully combined. You want a nice, thick batter that sticks together well!
5. Add Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in about half of the chocolate chips to the batter. This will ensure you have delicious pockets of chocolate without awkwardly mixing them into the batter. You can save the rest for the top!
6. Spread in the Baking Pan:
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, making sure it’s well-distributed. Then, sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips evenly over the top to create a tempting finish!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the bars are set and lightly golden on top. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step is important! If you cut the bars too soon, they might fall apart.
9. Cut, Serve, and Enjoy!
After cooling, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Enjoy them fresh or store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. These bars are great as a snack or even for breakfast on busy mornings!
Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious pumpkin oatmeal bars—perfect for fall and full of delicious flavors!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture will be slightly different—instant oats result in softer bars. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with rolled oats!
Can I Substitute Pumpkin Puree with Other Ingredients?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can substitute it with mashed banana or applesauce for a similar consistency. However, the flavor will change, so consider the overall taste you want in your bars!
How Should I Store Leftover Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge, where they can last up to a week.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! You can get creative with mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or seeds. Just make sure to adjust the overall quantity to keep the batter from becoming too thick or dry.
