Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a soft, spiced, and wholesome treat made with real pumpkin, hearty oats, and warm fall spices. These bars are the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or afternoon snack, packed with fiber and natural sweetness to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Filled with cozy fall flavors from pumpkin and spice
• Naturally sweetened and high in fiber
• Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
• Easy to make in one bowl—no mixer required
• Perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or holiday gatherings

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• old-fashioned rolled oats
• pumpkin purée
• eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
• maple syrup or brown sugar
• nut butter (like almond or peanut butter) or coconut oil
• vanilla extract
• pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon + nutmeg + cloves
• baking powder
• salt

Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, raisins

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix pumpkin purée, eggs (or flax eggs), maple syrup, nut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Stir in oats, pumpkin spice, baking powder, and salt until fully combined.
4. Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 25–35 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center is set.
7. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9–12 bars
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–35 minutes
Total time: 35–45 minutes

Variations

• Vegan: Use flax eggs and a plant-based milk or oil if needed
• Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter or omit the nut butter entirely
• Chocolate chip: Add ½ cup dark chocolate chips for a dessert version
• Apple-pumpkin: Stir in ½ cup finely chopped apples for extra moisture and flavor
• Protein boost: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or stir in some Greek yogurt (if not vegan)

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze in layers with parchment between bars for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or enjoy cold.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats or steel-cut oats?

Rolled oats are best for texture. Quick oats work but make the bars softer. Avoid steel-cut oats.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

Do I have to use eggs?

No, flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) work well as a binder.

How sweet are these bars?

They’re mildly sweet with maple syrup or brown sugar. You can adjust the sweetener to taste.

Can I add fruit?

Yes! Diced apples, bananas, or dried cranberries add flavor and texture.

Should I chill before cutting?

Yes, chilling or fully cooling helps the bars firm up and slice neatly.

Can I make these into muffins?

Yes—spoon the mixture into greased muffin tins and bake for 20–25 minutes.

Are they freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make them oil-free?

Yes, substitute nut butter or applesauce in place of oil for moisture.

Are these good for kids?

Definitely! They’re soft, mildly sweet, and nut-free versions are great for lunchboxes.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are an easy, nutritious way to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall. Whether you’re looking for a portable breakfast, a school-safe snack, or a healthy sweet treat, these bars check all the boxes. With simple ingredients and endless customizations, they’re bound to become a seasonal staple.

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