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Once you've mixed your batter, it's time to bake your delightful pumpkin oat bars to perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pour your mixture into a greased 9x9-inch baking pan. Spread the batter evenly across the pan for uniform cooking.

Pumpkin Oat Bars for School Snacks

Embrace the flavors of fall with Delightful Pumpkin Oat Bars! This nutritious recipe combines rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and natural sweeteners to create a wholesome snack that's perfect for any time of day. Ideal for breakfast, a midday boost, or a sweet treat after dinner, these bars can cater to various dietary needs. Easy to customize with nuts or chocolate chips, they satisfy cravings without the guilt. Try this healthy twist on pumpkin treats today!

Ingredients
  

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup almond milk (or milk of your choice)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)

1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional, for a sweet touch)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to ensure all dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-combined.

        Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts and chocolate chips.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula. Press it down gently to ensure it's compact.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

              Cool and Cut: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

                Store or Serve: Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. These pumpkin oat bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerated for longer freshness.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 16 bars