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As the crisp air of fall arrives, so does the delightful season of pumpkin-infused recipes. From lattes to pies, pumpkin's warm, comforting flavor has become a staple in many households during the autumn months. Among these cherished creations are the Wholesome Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars, a nutritious and easy-to-make snack that beautifully captures the essence of fall while providing essential health benefits.

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Embrace the flavors of fall with these Wholesome Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars! Perfect for a nutritious breakfast, satisfying snack, or guilt-free dessert, these bars combine the goodness of rolled oats and pumpkin puree, making them both delicious and healthy. With natural sweeteners and warming spices, they're a delightful treat for everyone. Easy to make and full of essential nutrients, these bars are sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups rolled oats

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

½ cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter of choice)

¼ cup honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp salt

½ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)

¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well-integrated.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. If you're using walnuts or chocolate chips, add them to this mixture.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined and the oats are evenly coated.

          Spread in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to evenly spread the mixture and press it down firmly to create an even layer.

            Bake the Bars: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

              Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift out the entire block and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing it into bars.

                Store: Enjoy these bars immediately, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 12 bars