These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a warm and cozy treat! Made with wholesome oats and yummy pumpkin, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack anytime.
Honestly, who can resist pumpkin goodness? I love having these with my morning coffee. They also make the house smell amazing while baking—instant fall vibes! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are essential for the bar’s texture. Quick oats can be used if you’re in a pinch, but avoid instant oats as they might turn mushy.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is convenient and tasty, but you can roast and mash your own pumpkin if you’re feeling adventurous. Just make sure it’s not spiced pumpkin pie filling!
Brown Sugar: This adds moisture and a nice caramel flavor. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, coconut sugar is a great alternative that still keeps the richness.
Unsweetened Applesauce: This keeps the bars moist and reduces the need for extra oil. You can swap it with mashed bananas or more pumpkin puree if you want to keep it pumpkin-forward.
Coconut Oil: A healthier fat option that adds a slight flavor. If you prefer, use melted butter or any neutral oil like canola.
Chocolate Chips: I love the sweetness they add, but you can omit them if you’d rather have a more wholesome flavor. Dried fruits or nuts make great substitutes!
How Do You Get the Right Texture for Oatmeal Bars?
The texture of your bars depends on mixing the dry and wet ingredients properly. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine wet ingredients well before adding dry ones. This ensures even distribution and helps avoid dry pockets.
- Don’t overmix the batter! Stir just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Make sure you allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This helps them set up properly for easy cutting.
Following these tips will give you the perfect soft, chewy, and wholesome pumpkin oatmeal bars every time! Enjoy making them!
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bars:
- 1 ¾ cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to bake. Be sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting. In total, you’ll have tasty pumpkin oatmeal bars ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will keep your bars from sticking!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, applesauce, vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil), egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where all the flavor begins!
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, baking powder, and salt. This will be the lovely spice base for your bars!
4. Mix Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix—just mix until you can’t see any dry oats.
5. Add Chocolate Chips:
If you want a touch of sweetness, fold in half of the mini chocolate chips, saving the rest for the top of the bars. This will create delicious little pockets of chocolate goodness!
6. Spread and Bake:
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it down with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top for a little extra treat. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
7. Cool and Cut:
Once they are baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan. This step is important for proper cutting. Once cool, slice them into bars of your desired size.
8. Store Your Bars:
Keep your delicious bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. They’ll make a great snack or breakfast option anytime!
Enjoy these chewy, moist pumpkin-infused oatmeal bars that combine warm spices and a touch of chocolate! Perfect for fall or whenever you crave something comforting!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different. Quick oats will result in a softer, less chewy bar. Rolled oats give the bars a heartier texture.
Can I Make These Bars Vegan?
Absolutely! To make them vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based oil. The rest of the ingredients remain the same. Delicious and plant-based!
How Do I Store Leftover Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months—just make sure they are well wrapped!
Can I Substitute Pumpkin Puree with Something Else?
If you’re out of pumpkin puree, you can substitute it with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas. These alternatives will alter the flavor slightly, but they will keep the bars moist and delicious!
