Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars are an easy fall snack made with oats, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and chopped nuts. These homemade bars have a chewy texture and are a convenient option for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or packing in lunch boxes.
Made with simple pantry ingredients, these granola bars bring together seasonal pumpkin flavor with a mix of crunchy seeds, nuts, and dried fruit. They are easy to slice, store well, and make a practical homemade alternative to store-bought snack bars.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
- Fall-Inspired Ingredients: Uses pumpkin puree, cinnamon, cranberries, and seeds that fit perfectly into autumn baking.
- Easy Grab-and-Go Snack: These bars can be portioned ahead for quick breakfasts or snacks.
- Simple Pantry Staples: Most ingredients are easy to find and require minimal preparation.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch once and enjoy homemade bars throughout the week.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Extra mix-ins can be added based on your preferences.
- Beginner-Friendly Baking: No mixer or complicated techniques are needed.
Ingredient Notes & Helpful Substitutions
- Pumpkin Puree: Use plain pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling to control the sweetness and spices.
- Old-Fashioned Oats: These create the base of the bars and provide a hearty texture. Avoid quick oats for the best results.
- Almond Flour: Helps bind the mixture and adds a softer texture. You can use another finely ground nut flour if needed.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Add a crunchy element and complement the pumpkin flavor. Sunflower seeds can be used as an alternative.
- Dried Cranberries: Add small bursts of sweetness. Raisins or chopped dried apricots can also work.
- Walnuts or Pecans: Add richness and texture. Use whichever nuts you prefer.
Chef’s Tip: Press the granola mixture firmly into the pan before baking. Compacting the mixture helps the bars hold their shape after slicing.
Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars
Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars are homemade fall snack bars made with oats, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and nuts. They are easy to prepare and make a convenient breakfast or snack option.
Equipment
- 8 x 11-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Wire cooling rack
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Ingredients
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ tbsp honey
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp melted coconut oil
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ⅔ cup almond flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8 x 11-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil.
- In a large bowl, mix together the oats, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, honey, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is fully combined. Fold in the pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it firmly into an even layer, making sure the edges are packed well.
- Bake for about 35 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center feels firm. Allow the bars to cool on a wire rack.
- Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper, cool completely, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner edges.
Notes
- Feel free to incorporate other add-ins like chocolate chips, chia seeds, or coconut flakes for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 27 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 11 g |
| Sodium | 110 mg |
Tips for Better Granola Bars
- Press the Mixture Firmly: A tightly packed base helps prevent loose crumbs after cutting.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing: Warm bars are softer and more likely to break apart.
- Use Parchment Overhang: It makes removing the baked bars from the pan much easier.
- Cut With a Sharp Knife: A clean knife creates smoother edges.
- Do Not Overbake: Baking too long can make the bars dry instead of chewy.
- Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerating helps create cleaner slices.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Leftover Granola Bars
- Breakfast Crumble: Break bars into pieces and serve over yogurt.
- Trail Mix Addition: Chop into small pieces and combine with nuts and dried fruit.
- Ice Cream Topping: Add crumbled pieces over vanilla ice cream.
- Smoothie Bowl Topping: Sprinkle pieces over smoothie bowls for texture.
- Snack Mix: Combine chopped bars with seeds, pretzels, or chocolate chips.
- Lunchbox Treat: Wrap individual portions for easy packing.
Perfect Partners For Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars!
Best Ways to Store Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars
| Method | Time | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3 to 4 days | Store in an airtight container away from heat and moisture. |
| Refrigerator Storage | Up to 1 week | Keep bars covered in an airtight container for a firmer texture. |
| Freezer Storage | 3 to 4 months | Wrap individual bars and store in a freezer-safe container. |
| Thawing | Before Serving | Let frozen bars sit at room temperature until softened. |
| Freshness Tip | Anytime | Keep bars separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking. |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No. Pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices, which can change the balance of the recipe. - Why are my granola bars falling apart?
The mixture may not have been pressed firmly enough into the pan before baking. - Can I make these granola bars without nuts?
Yes. Replace walnuts or pecans with additional seeds or another preferred add-in. - Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Old-fashioned oats provide better texture, but quick oats can work if that is what you have available. - How do I get clean slices from granola bars?
Cool the bars completely and refrigerate them before cutting with a sharp knife. - Can I add chocolate chips to these bars?
Yes. Add chocolate chips after the mixture has cooled slightly before pressing it into the pan. - Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes. Use a plant-based honey alternative such as maple syrup. - Why did my bars turn out too soft?
They may need additional cooling time or a few extra minutes of baking to firm up properly.
hi there,
i’m Archie
A San Diego-born home cook who turns her kitchen into a playground of flavors.
