Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars

Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars are a wholesome, portable snack that combines the cozy flavors of fall—pumpkin, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness—into a convenient, chewy bar. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go, an afternoon energy boost, or a pre/post-workout snack, these bars are made from oats, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners, delivering both nutrition and flavor.

The subtle pumpkin and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves evoke comfort and nostalgia while providing a healthy, satisfying snack.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect balance of health and indulgence. Unlike store-bought granola bars packed with preservatives and refined sugars, these homemade bars are fresh, wholesome, and customizable.

The pumpkin puree keeps them moist and chewy, while the oats and nuts provide a satisfying crunch. They’re versatile, easy to make, and fill the kitchen with the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice—a true taste of fall in every bite.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it combines convenience, flavor, and nutrition. These granola bars are not only delicious but also satisfying and energizing. They’re perfect for busy mornings, packing into lunchboxes, or enjoying as a guilt-free snack.

Plus, they’re fully customizable, so you can add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips. They’re a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought bars and are sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 bars
• Calories: ~200 kcal per bar
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Snack / Breakfast / Dessert

Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned oats

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• 1/4 cup seeds (pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp cloves)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. In a small saucepan, heat pumpkin puree, honey, and almond butter until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix well.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine pumpkin puree, honey (or maple syrup), and almond butter. Stir continuously until smooth and slightly warmed. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until every oat and nut is coated. Add optional chocolate chips or dried cranberries at this stage.
5. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it firmly and evenly.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until edges turn golden brown.
7. Cool Completely: Remove from oven and let the granola bars cool in the pan. Once cooled, lift from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 12 bars.

How to Serve

• Serve as a grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
• Pack in lunchboxes for a healthy midday treat.
• Pair with yogurt or milk for a filling snack.
• Enjoy after a workout for a natural energy boost.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure bars hold together.
• Don’t skip cooling—bars will firm up as they cool.
• Use a mandoline or food processor to chop nuts evenly if desired.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Variations

• Chocolate Pumpkin Bars: Add mini chocolate chips to the mixture before baking.
• Fruit and Nut: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates for sweetness.
• Seed Boost: Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition.
• Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based nut butter.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store cooled granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Wrap individually or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

Special Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Spatula or spoon

FAQs

Q1: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but bars may be slightly softer. Old-fashioned oats hold together better.

Q2: Can I make these nut-free?
Yes! Substitute with extra seeds or sunflower seed butter instead of almond/peanut butter.

Q3: How do I make the bars chewier?
Slightly underbake them and press firmly into the pan. They’ll firm as they cool.

Q4: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?
No, use pure pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices, which may alter taste and texture.

Q5: Can I make smaller bars or bites?
Absolutely! Just adjust cutting after baking. Mini bars are great for snacks or lunchboxes.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars are a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make snack that combines the cozy flavors of fall with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or gifting, these bars are portable, satisfying, and naturally sweetened. Once you try them, they’re likely to become a pantry staple for busy mornings or anytime you need a quick, nutritious energy boost.