Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars
There’s something incredibly comforting about a batch of warm Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars fresh out of the oven. I remember the first time I made these delightful treats; the scent of cinnamon and pumpkin wafted through my kitchen, drawing my family in like a warm hug on a chilly fall day. As the leaves turned and the air grew crisp, I found myself wanting to create something that captured the essence of the season. These bars are not only simple to whip up, but they also bring together the best autumn flavors.
Each bite of the Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars is a perfect mix of wholesome ingredients that feel nourishing yet indulgent. With just six ingredients, they make for a quick snack or a wholesome breakfast option. I love how the sweetness of the chopped apples complements the earthiness of the pumpkin, all while being held together by the chewy oats. Every time I prepare these bars, they disappear almost as quickly as they come out of the oven! Whether for a cozy family gathering or a simple treat for myself, these bars have quickly become a staple recipe in my home.
As I slice through the golden-brown edges, I can’t help but smile, knowing that these bars are a delightful way to celebrate the season. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do!
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
10 mins
30 mins
Easy
190 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
7 g
8-inch Baking Pan, Parchment Paper
The Beauty of This Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars
Healthy Indulgence
One of the best parts about the Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars is how they manage to feel like a treat while being packed with nutritious ingredients. The combination of pumpkin, oats, and apples creates a dense, satisfying bar that doesn’t compromise on health. These bars are naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup, which is a great alternative to refined sugars and adds a rich flavor.
Perfect for Fall
These bars scream fall! With the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin pie spice, they evoke memories of crisp autumn afternoons. They’re perfect for enjoying with a hot cup of tea or coffee while watching the leaves change colors outside your window. Every bite is a comforting reminder of the beauty of the season.
Simple and Quick
With only six ingredients and minimal prep time, the Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars are a breeze to make. Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings, these bars are a recipe you can rely on when you’re short on time but still want something delicious and homemade.
Versatile Treat
Whether you want to serve them as a snack or a breakfast option, these bars have got you covered. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch or even mixing in some dried fruit for a twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe not only versatile but also incredibly adaptable to what you have on hand.
Easy to Store
Leftovers? No problem! The Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them, making them a great make-ahead option. Just pop them in the fridge the night before you want to enjoy them, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready to go!
Family-Friendly
Kids love these bars! They’re a great way to introduce wholesome ingredients to your little ones without them even realizing they’re eating something healthy. The combination of flavors and textures makes them appealing to kids and adults alike. You can even get the kids involved in the baking process, making it a fun family activity!
Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars Ingredients
The ingredients in the Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars are simple yet effective, creating a delicious treat that’s both comforting and nutritious. The harmonious blend of flavors makes each bite a celebration of fall. Let’s explore the key players:
- 2/3 cup pureed pumpkin: This is the star of the show, bringing moisture and a rich, earthy sweetness.
- ½ cup pure maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds a delightful flavor while keeping the bars moist.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond butter: It binds the ingredients together, providing creaminess and healthy fats.
- 2 1/2 cups rolled oats: They form the base of the bars, giving them a chewy texture that’s satisfying.
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Adds the quintessential fall flavor to the bars.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in the bars.
- 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and chopped: The tartness of the apple balances the sweetness of the other ingredients, adding texture and flavor.
Cooking Method for Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars
Making the Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars is a delightful experience that warms the heart and fills the home with scrumptious aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create these wholesome bars:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can spray the baking dish with cooking spray or grease it with coconut oil. This step is essential to ensure that your bars can be easily removed after baking.
In a large bowl, combine the pureed pumpkin, pure maple syrup, and almond butter. Mix them thoroughly until you have a thick, creamy wet mixture. It’s important to blend these wet ingredients well; they will act as the glue for your dry ingredients.
Add the rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and sea salt to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir until everything is combined, creating a thick, sticky dough. The mixture should be cohesive and slightly tacky, which is perfect for holding its shape while baking.
Next, fold in the chopped Granny Smith apple. Make sure the apple is evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds a fresh crunch and a hint of tartness to counterbalance the sweetness of the bars.
Spread the pumpkin apple oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish using a rubber spatula. Evenly distribute the mixture across the pan, making sure to smooth the top. This will help them bake uniformly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center tests clean with a toothpick. I recommend checking them at the 30-minute mark. They should look firm and slightly golden.
Once done, allow the apple bars to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool to room temperature before slicing. This cooling period is crucial; it helps the bars firm up, making them easier to cut.
Things Worth Knowing
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of your Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars. Fresh pumpkins and apples make a significant difference.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup. Start with less if you prefer less sweetness.
- Even Baking: To ensure even baking, try to spread the mixture evenly in the baking pan. This prevents parts from cooking faster than others.
- Storage Tips: Allow the bars to cool completely before storing them. This prevents moisture buildup that can make them soggy.
Change It Up
Feel free to get creative with the Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and flavor.
- Include Dried Fruits: Dried cranberries or raisins can add a nice chewy texture and additional sweetness.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Nut Butters: Swap in different nut butters, like peanut or cashew, for a unique twist and flavor.
- Top with Chocolate: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars after baking for an indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars, there are plenty of delightful options. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- As Breakfast: Serve a warm bar alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a hearty breakfast option.
- For a Snack: These bars make for a convenient afternoon snack, perfect for a quick energy boost.
- Lunchbox Treat: Pack them in your child’s lunch for a sweet surprise that’s still healthy.
- Fall Gatherings: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, these bars will impress your guests and suit the fall theme.
- With Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve warm bars topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy with autumn-inspired drinks like apple cider or spiced chai.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars are not just a recipe; they’re a celebration of fall flavors and wholesome ingredients. With their chewy texture and rich taste, they make for a satisfying snack or a delightful breakfast. I encourage you to try making these bars—they’re simple, quick, and perfect for any occasion. Your family and friends will surely enjoy them, and they might even become a new favorite in your home!
Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. If you don't have parchment paper, spray the baking dish with cooking spray or grease it with coconut oil.
- Combine the pureed pumpkin, pure maple syrup, and almond butter in a large bowl and mix well until a thick, creamy wet mixture forms.
- Add the rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and sea salt to the mixing bowl and mix until a thick, sticky dough forms.
- Mix in the chopped Granny Smith apple until it is well-distributed throughout the dough.
- Spread the pumpkin apple oatmeal bar mixture into the prepared baking dish using a rubber spatula and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center tests clean.
- Allow the apple bars to cool to room temperature before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store apple oatmeal pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the bars in a large zip lock bag or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
