Description
These Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars are a deliciously wholesome snack perfect for autumn or any time you crave a healthy, pumpkin-flavored treat. Made with rolled oats, pumpkin puree, almond butter, and a blend of warm spices, these bars are packed with texture and natural sweetness from honey and dried cranberries. They’re easy to prepare, baked to golden perfection, and ideal for on-the-go snacking or a nutritious breakfast option.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (about 180 g) rolled oats
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
- 1/2 cup (about 60 g) chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup (about 70 g) dried cranberries
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (about 240 g) pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup (about 170 g) honey
- 1/2 cup (about 128 g) almond butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin spice, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all the dry ingredients.
- Prepare wet mixture: In another bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, honey, and almond butter together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
- Press mixture into pan: Transfer the combined ingredients into the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Bake until the edges are golden brown and the bars feel firm to the touch.
- Cool and slice: After baking, let the granola bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into 12 bars.
Notes
- Ensure the pumpkin puree is unsweetened for the best flavor balance.
- You can substitute the chopped nuts with any nuts or seeds you prefer, such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds.
- Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- For a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan helps the bars hold together after baking.
