Name: Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bars
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1/3 cup pure maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a snack that’s as good-for-you as it is delicious, you’ll fall in love with these Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars. Packed with cozy fall flavors, nourishing oats, and naturally sweetened Pumpkin, these bars are perfect for breakfast on-the-go, lunchbox treats, or a wholesome afternoon pick-me-up. They’re easy, moist, and just the right balance of chewy and tender—let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Wholesome, nutrient-dense ingredients keep you energized and satisfied.
Perfectly moist and chewy, thanks to pumpkin puree and rolled oats.
Refined sugar-free and easy to make vegan or gluten-free.
Super quick—prep in just 10 minutes for an effortless treat.
Keeps well for meal prep; ideal for busy mornings or snacks.

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
2 large eggs
1/3 cup almond butter or peanut butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)

How to Make Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper or lightly coat with nonstick spray for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, applesauce, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula, mixing until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips or nuts if using.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes, then lift out to a cutting board and slice into squares or bars.

Notes on Making Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

If you want these pumpkin oatmeal bars vegan, simply use flax eggs instead of eggs (learn how here).
Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree for best flavor and health benefits (read more).
Don’t overbake – bars will continue to firm up as they cool.

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars Variations

Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
Extra Protein: Add two scoops of vanilla protein powder and reduce oats by 1/4 cup.
Nut-Free: Swap nut butter for sunflower seed butter.

Required Equipment for Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk
Spatula
8×8-inch baking pan
Parchment paper

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars Storage Instructions

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave at room temp for an hour or warm for 10 seconds in the microwave.

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars – Serving & Pairings

Enjoy warm or cold with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or as a yogurt parfait topper. They’re perfect for lunchboxes, after sports snacks, or even crumbled into your morning smoothie bowl!

Pro Tips for Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

For extra chewiness, toast the oats lightly before mixing in (learn about oat toasting techniques here).
Let the bars cool completely before slicing for neat edges.
Add a sprinkle of flaky salt or pumpkin seeds to the top before baking for a gourmet touch.

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars FAQ

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?: Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. For the best structure, stick to old-fashioned oats.
Are Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars healthy for breakfast?: Absolutely! They provide fiber, vitamins, and slow-release carbs, making them a balanced breakfast or snack.
Can I double the recipe?: You can! Just use a 9×13-inch pan and bake 5-10 minutes longer, checking for doneness in the center.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25-30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars Ingredients