There is something magical about the smell of pumpkin spice on a crisp autumn afternoon. You want a treat that feels special but keeps your family feeling good. These Healthy Pumpkin Bars are the perfect solution for your fall cravings.
They are soft, moist, and filled with warm spices. You can feel great about serving these to your kids after school. They deliver all the comfort of a classic dessert without the sugar crash.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
You will love how these bars use whole grain oat flour. They are naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup. This makes them a guilt-free snack for busy fall days.
Your kids will love finding these treats in their lunchboxes. They are packed with fiber and real pumpkin goodness. It is a win for both parents and picky eaters alike.
How It Comes Together
Making these bars is incredibly simple and very fast. You just whisk the wet ingredients and stir in the dry. No mixer or fancy tools are needed here. Even a beginner baker can master this recipe today.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These bars use simple pantry staples and fresh fall flavors.
- 15 oz canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups oat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate medium bowl, combine oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no dry streaks remain.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 12 squares.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these bars warm with a cup of herbal tea. They are perfect for a cozy afternoon snack by the fire. You can also pack them for a nutritious school treat.
Try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. They also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of almond milk. Set them out at your next fall gathering and watch them disappear.
Keep It Fresh
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to five days. You can also freeze them for a quick morning snack later.
Just thaw them at room temperature for an hour before eating. To enjoy them warm, microwave a square for fifteen seconds. They taste just as good the next day!
Recipe Tips
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
- Use a plastic knife to slice the bars cleanly.
- Add a pinch more spice for a bolder fall flavor.
- For a holiday treat, double the dark chocolate chips.
- Let them cool completely before you try to slice them.
- Check the labels to ensure your oat flour is certified gluten-free.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap chocolate chips for chopped walnuts or crunchy pecans.
- Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Add a handful of raisins for a classic chewy texture.
- In summer, swap the pumpkin for mashed overripe bananas.
Common Questions
Can I use regular all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for the oat flour. The texture will be slightly lighter and less chewy. It will no longer be gluten-free, so keep that in mind.
Are these bars freezer-friendly?
These bars freeze beautifully for up to three months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap for an easy grab-and-go snack. They are great for busy weekday mornings.
How do I know when they are done?
Look for firm edges and a clean toothpick test in the center. The top should feel slightly springy to the touch. Do not overbake them or they may become dry.
I hope these bars bring a little autumn joy to your home. They are so simple to make and even better to eat. Happy baking to you and your family!
— Lidia
Ingredients
- 15 oz canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large egg s
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups oat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate medium bowl, combine oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no dry streaks remain.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 12 squares.
