These pumpkin oatmeal bars are soft, chewy, and oh-so-yummy! Packed with warm spices and pumpkin goodness, they make a perfect snack or breakfast treat.
Whenever I bake these, my kitchen smells like fall, and I can’t resist sneaking a piece (or two!). They’re super easy to whip up and best served warm with a cup of tea!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats give the bars their chewy texture. If you need a gluten-free version, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats!
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is easy to use and consistent. However, you can make your own by roasting fresh pumpkin and blending it until smooth. Just be careful to strain excess water if needed!
Almond Butter: While I love almond butter, peanut butter works perfectly too! You can also try sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both add sweetness, but if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have this, you can make your own using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Adjust the spice amounts based on your preference!
How to Achieve the Perfect Oatmeal Bar Texture?
The texture of these bars relies on the right mixing and baking techniques. Follow these steps for success:
- Mix dry ingredients well before adding wet ingredients. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Don’t overmix once the wet and dry ingredients are combined — just stir until you can’t see any dry oats.
- Press the mixture firmly into the baking pan before baking. This helps the bars hold their shape.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan. This allows them to set and makes cutting easier without crumbling.
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup natural almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, plus some cooling time. Overall, you can have these delicious bars ready in about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some overhang — this will help you lift the bars out after baking!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir everything together so that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the oats.
3. Blend the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until it’s all smooth and well-combined. This step adds great flavor and moisture to your bars!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Give it a gentle stir until everything is mixed together. Be careful not to overmix — just stir until you don’t see any dry oats!
5. Add the Chocolate Chips:
Now, fold in half of your dark chocolate chips into the batter. This will add some delightful chocolatey goodness throughout your bars!
6. Spread Into the Pan:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Make sure it’s evenly spread for nice, even baking.
7. Top with Chocolate and Coconut:
Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips and shredded coconut over the top of the mixture. This adds a lovely finish to your bars!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden edges and a set center. Your kitchen will smell amazing while they bake!
9. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is super important! Once cool, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
These bars are perfect for a snack, breakfast, or dessert! Enjoy them as is, or share them with friends and family. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Enjoy the delightful taste and comforting spices of these Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars — happy baking!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats in a pinch, I recommend sticking with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Instant oats will lead to a softer, mushier bar. If you’re in a hurry, you might need to adjust the baking time as well.
How Can I Make These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars Vegan?
To make these bars vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your almond butter is free from any added ingredients. They will turn out just as delicious and are perfect for everyone!
How Long Do These Bars Last?
These pumpkin oatmeal bars can last in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, store them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week.
Can I Freeze Leftover Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Just make sure they are completely cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying!