Healthy Pumpkin Bars (Gluten Free) are the perfect fall treat that can brighten up any occasion. They’re moist, delicious, and easy to make, packed with the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dessert, a snack for kids, or a seasonal dish for gatherings, these bars provide satisfying sweetness without guilt.
What You’ll Need for Healthy Pumpkin Bars
To make these delightful bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (120 ml)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (120 ml)
- 1/2 cup natural creamy almond butter (120 g; ensure it contains only almonds)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (2.5 ml)
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or oat flour) (50 g)
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (10 g)
- 1/4 tsp baking powder (1 g)
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt (if using unsalted almond butter, increase to 1/2 tsp)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (90 g), plus more for sprinkling on top
Step-by-Step Recipe for Healthy Pumpkin Bars
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, almond butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the mixture is nice and smooth.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the almond flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Whisk again until all the ingredients are fully combined and there are no lumps.
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Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and if desired, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top.
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Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 32 to 36 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
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Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then, use the edges of the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Let them cool completely before slicing into 12 squares.
How to Serve Healthy Pumpkin Bars
These bars are delicious on their own, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy them even more:
- Warm or Chilled: Serve them warm with a dollop of yogurt on the side or let them chill in the fridge for a delightful, refreshing treat.
- Toppings Galore: Drizzle with a bit of nut butter or melted chocolate for an extra decadent experience.
- Pair with Beverages: Enjoy with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, or serve with a glass of almond milk for a perfect snack break.
Helpful Tricks for Healthy Pumpkin Bars
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Mix Up the Flour: If you want to switch things up, try using oat flour instead of almond flour for a different texture and flavor.
- Add Nuts: For added crunch, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans with the chocolate chips.
Healthy Pumpkin Bars FAQs
1. Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.
2. How can I make these bars vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for the same fluffy texture.
3. What can I do if the bars are too soft?
If your bars come out too soft, try baking them a few minutes longer. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on them!
Try making these Healthy Pumpkin Bars (Gluten Free) for a nourishing snack or dessert that everyone will love. They are simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor—perfect for sharing with family and friends! Happy baking!
Healthy Pumpkin Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, almond butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the mixture is nice and smooth.
- Add the almond flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Whisk again until all the ingredients are fully combined and there are no lumps.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 32 to 36 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then, use the edges of the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Let them cool completely before slicing into 12 squares.