Name: Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars: A Cozy Fall Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a hearty texture); 2 cups rolled old fashioned oats (avoid instant oats); 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves); 1/2 teaspoon salt (can be omitted in low-sodium diets); 1 teaspoon baking soda (ensure it’s fresh); 2 large eggs (lightly beaten); 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (make sure it’s pure, not pie filling); 1/2 cup natural style applesauce (can be substituted with mashed banana); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (maple syrup can be used as an alternative); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (opt for pure when possible); 1/2 cup pepitas (can be replaced with sunflower seeds); 1/2 cup chopped pecans (can be omitted or replaced with walnuts); 1/4 cup extra pepitas; 1/4 cup extra pecans

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Have you ever opened your pantry only to find that you’re missing the inspiration for breakfast? Enter these Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars—a delightful solution bursting with wholesome goodness! With creamy pumpkin puree and a dash of pumpkin pie spice, these bars deliver an irresistible flavor that’s perfect for those busy mornings when you need to grab and go. Not only are they a cinch to whip up, but they’re also a healthy choice that keeps you satisfied and energized throughout the day. Plus, they’re versatile enough for any palate; feel free to swap in nuts or add in your favorite dried fruits. Curious about how to make these delicious, make-ahead snacks? Let’s dive into the recipe that promises to transform your breakfast routine!

Why Choose Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars?

Nutritious Kickstart: These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients that keep you satisfied without sacrificing flavor.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep these bars in advance for effortless breakfasts that fit your busy lifestyle.

Versatility Galore: Enjoy them as a breakfast treat or a healthy snack—swap in nuts or dried fruits to cater to your taste!

Seasonal Delight: The warming pumpkin pie spice makes these bars a cozy fall favorite, comforting and delicious all season long.

Perfect Portion Control: Each bar is just the right size to help you stay on track with your nutrition goals, combining taste and health.

If you’re looking for more breakfast ideas, check out these Blueberry Cheesecake Bars or indulge in some Maple Donut Bars!

Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bar Ingredients

Get ready to savor the goodness of these delightful Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars with this easy ingredient list!

For the Bars

Flour – Use all-purpose or whole wheat for a hearty texture.
Rolled Old Fashioned Oats – Adds chewiness and fiber; avoid instant oats as they alter the texture.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warming flavor; you can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if needed.
Salt – Enhances the overall taste; essential for flavor, but can be omitted in low-sodium diets.
Baking Soda – A key leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and provide moisture; two lightly beaten eggs are just right.
Pure Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show, adding moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; make sure it’s pure, not pie filling.
Natural Style Applesauce – Keeps the bars moist; can be substituted with mashed banana for added sweetness.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides chewiness and sweetness; maple syrup can be used as an alternative (reduce other liquids slightly).
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla when possible.
Pepitas – Offers a nutty crunch; can be replaced with sunflower seeds for allergy-friendly bars.
Chopped Pecans – Adds richness and texture; feel free to omit or replace with walnuts if you prefer.

For Topping (Optional)

Extra Pepitas and Pecans – Sprinkle these on top before baking to boost crunch and flavor!

With these ingredients in hand, you’re just a few steps away from creating delicious Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars that are sure to delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, then lightly grease the paper with cooking spray or oil. This will ensure your Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars come out easily once baked and cooled.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine your flour, rolled old-fashioned oats, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well-blended and free of lumps. This step is key to creating a harmonious flavor throughout the bars, so make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat two eggs using a whisk. Then, add in the pure pumpkin puree, natural applesauce, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all the wet ingredients are smooth and well-combined, creating a lovely orange mixture that’s full of pumpkin goodness for your Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, gently stirring with a spatula to combine. Take care not to overmix, as this can result in denser bars. The mixture should be uniform yet thick; you’re aiming for a lovely batter that holds together while still being pourable.

Step 5: Add Nuts and Seeds
Fold in half of the pepitas and chopped pecans into your batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed. These will add delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars. Next, pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly for uniform baking.

Step 6: Top with Extra Crunch
Before placing the baking pan in the oven, sprinkle the remaining pepitas and pecans on top of the batter. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your bars but also adds a lovely crunchy topping once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be slightly golden, indicating that the Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars are ready.

Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After cooling slightly, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, slice them into squares and enjoy your delicious homemade snack!

What to Serve With Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars

Enhance your breakfast experience with delightful accompaniments that complement these nutritious bars, making every bite even more enjoyable!

Creamy Yogurt: Adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bars, making for a balanced and satisfying breakfast choice.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits brings color and nutrition, boosting the healthy breakfast vibe.
Nut Butter Drizzle: A spoonful of almond or peanut butter drizzled on top enhances creaminess and adds a protein-packed punch to your morning.
Cinnamon Tea: Sip on a warm cup of cinnamon tea for a cozy pairing that echoes the bars’ warming flavors, perfect for chilly mornings.

The combination of textures and flavors creates a fulfilling experience. Mixing cool, creamy yogurt or a warm sip of tea with the hearty bars is nothing short of delightful!

Granola Crumbles: Sprinkle crunchy granola for an added bite and extra texture. It elevates the whole breakfast scene!
Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey enhances sweetness and offers a beautiful gloss that pairs beautifully with the bars’ spiced richness.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: If you have a sweet tooth, pairing one or two cookies with your bars can turn your breakfast into a little treat!

Serve these alongside your Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars for a wholesome and satisfying start to your day!

Make Ahead Options

These Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars are ideal for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy delicious, homemade snacks throughout the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately; then, combine them just before baking. If you prefer, you can also bake the bars in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate them for even longer freshness. To maintain their quality, ensure they cool completely before storing, which prevents sogginess. When ready to enjoy, simply slice and serve—perfect for on-the-go breakfasts!

How to Store and Freeze Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars

Room Temperature: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain their moisture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store the bars in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to seal them tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: You can freeze these Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for maximum freshness.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through—perfect for a cozy breakfast!

Expert Tips for Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars

Choose the Right Oats: Use rolled old-fashioned oats for the perfect chewiness. Instant oats will alter the texture and may lead to mushy bars.
Check Baking Soda Freshness: Ensure your baking soda is not expired; stale baking soda won’t provide the rise you need for fluffy Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This prevents them from crumbling and ensures cleaner cuts.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add dried cranberries or chocolate chips to elevate the flavors of your breakfast bars.
Wrap for Freshness: Keep your baked bars wrapped tightly or in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and deliciousness for up to 3 days.

Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and tweak these bars to match your taste or dietary needs!

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans entirely or substitute them with pumpkin seeds for a crunchy twist without the nuts. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
Lower Sugar: Swap light brown sugar for mashed bananas or a sugar substitute like stevia for a sweeter profile with fewer calories. Your bars will still be deliciously sweet.
Extra Fiber: Incorporate ground flaxseed or chia seeds into the mix for an additional boost of nutrition and fiber. It perks up the texture while keeping you satisfied longer.
Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter for a slightly sweeter and indulgent flavor. Who can resist a chocolate twist on their morning bar?
Different Nuts: Try swapping pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor; each nut brings its own unique taste to the bars. Crunchy, creamy, nutty—take your pick!
Spice It Up: Boost the flavor with a pinch of cayenne or black pepper. Just a dash can ignite the warmth of your spices, giving you that cozy, spicy kick!
Fruit Burst: Mix in a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a delightful tartness that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin sweetness. It’s like a fruit explosion in every bite!

Just like these Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars, breakfast can be versatile too! For more inspiration, don’t forget to check out these delicious Blueberry Cheesecake Bars or dive into the sweetness of Maple Donut Bars.

Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for “100% pure pumpkin” on the label. This ensures you get that rich, pumpkin flavor without added sweeteners or spices that come in pumpkin pie filling. Canned varieties are convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also roast and puree fresh pumpkins for a homemade touch.

What’s the best way to store leftover Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars?
Very simple! Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, refrigerate them for up to one week—just seal them tightly to lock in moisture.

Can I freeze these bars, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars, begin by allowing them to cool completely. Then, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or microwave for a quick warm-up!

What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If your bars turn out crumbly, it’s often due to two main reasons: either the bars were overbaked, or there wasn’t enough moisture. To avoid this, always check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested baking time—look for a toothpick to come out clean but not dry. If you find that they crumble easily after baking, consider adding a touch more pumpkin puree or applesauce next time for added moisture.

Are these pumpkin bars suitable for pets or those with allergies?
While these Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars are great for humans, some ingredients like chocolate (if added), nuts, or sugars might not be safe for pets. Always consult your veterinarian regarding specific dietary concerns for your furry friends. For those with nut allergies, simply leave out the pecans and substitute pepitas with sunflower seeds to make them allergy-friendly!