Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars

As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, pumpkin spice cravings start to take over! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for quick, healthy snacks that also feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. That’s exactly what these Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars are – nutritious, delicious, and oh-so-easy to make! Whether you need a grab-and-go breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these bars have you covered.

I promise these bars are anything but boring! With the subtle sweetness of pumpkin and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, they bring all the comforting flavors of fall in a portable, healthy snack. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars

• Nutritious: Packed with fiber from oats and pumpkin puree, these bars offer a wholesome, filling snack.
• Easy to Make: With just one bowl and a handful of ingredients, this recipe is super simple – no fancy equipment needed!
• Customizable: Whether you prefer nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips (or all three!), this recipe is versatile enough to handle it.
• Tastes Like Fall: With pumpkin puree and those classic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these bars taste like everything you love about autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to whip up these tasty bars:

• 1 cup rolled oats – Adds texture and keeps you full longer.
• ½ cup almond flour – For a tender, nutty base.
• ½ cup pumpkin puree – The star of the show, adding moisture and flavor.
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup – Natural sweetness, your choice of flavor!
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon – The classic spice that screams fall.
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – For a warm, cozy flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the spice.
• ¼ cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional) – Adds crunch and extra nutrition.
• ¼ cup chocolate chips (optional) – Because chocolate makes everything better!

Necessary Tools

• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

• Sweeteners: Swap honey or maple syrup for agave nectar or any liquid sweetener of your choice.
• Flour Alternatives: If you don’t have almond flour, you can use oat flour or even whole wheat flour.
• Add-ins: Raisins, dried cranberries, or sunflower seeds are great alternatives to nuts or chocolate chips.
• Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra spice kick!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Give it a good stir to evenly distribute the spices.
3. Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the pumpkin puree and honey (or maple syrup) until the mixture is fully combined.
4. Optional add-ins: If you’re using nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the mixture at this stage.
5. Press and bake: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and firm to the touch.
6. Cool completely: Let the bars cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This step is key to ensuring they hold together well!

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What to Serve With Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars

These bars are perfect on their own, but if you’re looking to make a complete snack plate, try pairing them with:

• A side of Greek yogurt for extra protein.
• A warm cup of chai or pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall experience.
• Fresh apple slices or a small handful of almonds for a balanced snack.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars

• Don’t skip the parchment paper: This makes removing the bars from the pan so much easier and ensures no sticking!
• Customize the texture: If you like chewier bars, bake them for closer to 20 minutes. For a crunchier bar, go for the full 25 minutes.
• Make them ahead: These bars store beautifully, so feel free to double the batch and freeze some for later!

Storage Instructions

• At room temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• In the fridge: Keep them in the fridge for a slightly firmer texture, lasting up to 10 days.
• In the freezer: These bars freeze well! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw them overnight or pop one in your bag, and it’ll be ready by snack time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats and you’re good to go.

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Yes, just be sure to cook and puree it until smooth. You might need to adjust the moisture slightly, so keep an eye on the texture of your mixture.

Q: How can I make these bars vegan?
A: Simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly snack.

In Summary

These Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars are the perfect balance of nutritious and delicious, ideal for any time of day. With a simple ingredient list, they’re easy to whip up and even easier to customize to your liking. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast on the go or a cozy afternoon treat, they’re sure to bring all the fall vibes into your kitchen.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Be sure to leave a review below or share your photo with me on Pinterest.

Craving more fall recipes? You might also enjoy:

• Pumpkin S’mores Cookies 
• Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes
• Pumpkin Cupcakes with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 8g

Enjoy your snack break and happy baking! 🍂

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