Pumpkin Oat Bars

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Delicious homemade pumpkin oat bars with spices and oats

Pumpkin Oat Bars

Pumpkin Oat Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack, perfect for any time of day. Rich in fiber and packed with vitamins, these bars are ideal for a busy lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these wholesome bars are sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

US Measurements

  • 1 cup oats
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 800g pumpkin, peeled and cut into cubes (approximately 2 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon sweetener (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • A pinch of salt
  • 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1/2 cup dried hydrated and chopped apricots
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 12 tablespoons walnuts, finely chopped (approximately 3/4 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons mixture of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Parchment paper

European Metric Measurements

  • 100g oats
  • 240ml warm water
  • 800g pumpkin, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 15ml sweetener (optional)
  • 5g cinnamon (optional)
  • A pinch of salt
  • 45g sesame seeds
  • 75g dried hydrated and chopped apricots
  • 15g chia seeds
  • 75g walnuts, finely chopped
  • 30g mixture of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits
  • 5g baking powder
  • Parchment paper

Directions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the oats with warm water and let them sit for about 10 minutes to soften.
  2. Add the pumpkin cubes, optional sweetener, optional cinnamon, a pinch of salt, sesame seeds, chopped apricots, chia seeds, and chopped walnuts to the mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined.
  3. Incorporate the mixture of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits along with the baking powder into the dough, mixing until a cohesive mixture forms.
  4. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Transfer the dough into the prepared tray and spread it evenly to form a flat layer. Lightly moisten the surface with warm water for better browning.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.

Nutritional Information

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Estimated nutritional values per serving (based on 12 servings):

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Fat: 7g

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  1. Choose Your Pumpkin Wisely: Opt for sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins for a richer flavor. These varieties are sweeter and have smoother flesh compared to regular carving pumpkins.

  2. Experiment with Texture: If you prefer crunchier bars, substitute some of the oats with puffed rice or add in some toasted nuts for an extra crunch.

  3. Make Ahead: These bars store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Consider making a double batch and freezing extras for later!

Possible Variations

  1. Fruit and Nut Medley: Feel free to swap out the dried apricots for other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. You can also mix in different nuts such as almonds or pecans for varied flavors and textures.

  2. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm spice blend that elevates the pumpkin flavor. You can also stir in some coconut flakes for an additional tropical flair.

Making your own Pumpkin Oat Bars at home allows you to customize the flavor and ingredients to your preference, making it a fun and creative kitchen project. Enjoy your healthy treat!