Name: Warm and Cozy Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars for Fall
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Whole wheat flour; 1 cup Rolled old-fashioned oats; 2 teaspoons Pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Baking soda; 2 large Eggs (Flax eggs for vegan option); 1 cup Pure pumpkin puree (Not pumpkin pie filling); 1/2 cup Natural style applesauce (Can substitute with mashed bananas); 1/2 cup Light brown sugar (Coconut sugar as a lower glycemic option); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1/2 cup Pepitas (Can be omitted or replaced with chocolate chips); 1/2 cup Chopped pecans (Walnuts can be used or omitted for nut-free); 1/4 cup Additional pepitas (Sprinkle before baking); 1/2 cup Chocolate chips (Fold in for a sweeter twist)

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With the crisp air hinting at fall and the scent of spices wafting through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but whip up a batch of these Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars. The combination of creamy pumpkin puree and cozy pumpkin pie spices creates a delightful bar that’s not only a breeze to make but also transforms breakfast into something extraordinary. These bars are perfect for busy mornings, offering a cake-like texture that makes them a hit with the whole family. Plus, you can easily customize them to suit your taste or dietary needs. Are you ready to indulge in this seasonal treat that doubles as a make-ahead snack? Let’s dive in and bring the flavors of fall right to your table!

Why You’ll Crave These Breakfast Bars

Cozy Comfort: Embrace the fall season with these delightful Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars, which combine warm spices and creamy pumpkin for a comforting dish.
Customizable Goodness: Tailor the recipe to your liking by substituting ingredients—try swapping pecans for walnuts or adding chocolate chips for a sweet surprise!
Grab-and-Go Delight: Ideal for those busy mornings, these bars are perfectly portable and can be enjoyed at home or as an on-the-go snack.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep a batch ahead of time and enjoy fresh, wholesome breakfasts all week long—perfect for avoiding fast food temptations!
Nutritional Balance: Each bar offers a satisfying blend of fiber and healthy fats, making them a guilt-free choice for starting your day right.
For even more easy breakfast ideas, check out our Egg Cheese Breakfast Roll-Ups and Blueberry Muffins Breakfast recipes!

Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars Ingredients

For the Bars
• Flour – Provides structure to the bars; whole wheat flour can be used for added nutrition.
• Rolled Old-Fashioned Oats – Contributes chewiness and a wholesome element; avoid instant oats as they may alter texture.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warmth and flavor; available year-round in grocery stores.
• Salt – Enhances flavor balance; no substitutions needed.
• Baking Soda – Provides leavening for lighter texture; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Eggs – Acts as a binder and provides moisture; consider flax eggs for a vegan substitute.
• Pure Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and flavor; make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Natural Style Applesauce – Adds sweetness and moisture, reducing the need for extra sugar; can substitute with mashed bananas.
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic option.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor; no substitutions necessary.
• Pepitas – Adds texture and crunch; can be omitted or replaced with chocolate chips for variation.
• Chopped Pecans – Provides crunch and flavor; walnuts can be used or omitted for a nut-free option.

Optional Toppings
• Additional Pepitas – For an extra crunch on top; sprinkle before baking.
• Chocolate Chips – Adds decadence; fold in for a sweeter twist.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you place your Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars in, they will bake evenly. As the oven warms, you’ll fill your kitchen with a cozy anticipation of fall—a warm hug in the form of spices!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
While the oven heats, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking. This simple step will make it easier to lift out your bars once they’re baked, allowing for perfect squares without any fuss—ideal for enjoying your breakfast treats.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. Stir them together until well blended, ensuring the baking soda is evenly distributed. This mixture will form the base of your Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars, adding structure and delicious flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a larger mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, pure pumpkin puree, natural applesauce, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix these until smooth and well combined, creating a flavorful batter that will keep the bars moist and sweet. The combination of wet ingredients brings the essence of fall straight into your kitchen.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This step is essential for achieving the cake-like texture of your Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars, ensuring they’re moist and fluffy.

Step 6: Fold in the Nuts and Seeds
Next, gently fold in half of the pepitas and chopped pecans. This adds a delightful crunch to your bars. Mixing these ingredients in at this stage ensures that every bite of your breakfast bars is packed with flavor and texture, making them even more enjoyable!

Step 7: Pour the Batter into the Pan
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to evenly spread it out. Ensuring a smooth top helps with even baking. As you do this, imagine how wonderful those bars will be once they’re baked—golden brown and aromatic, ready to satisfy your breakfast cravings!

Step 8: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining pepitas and chopped pecans on top of the batter. This extra layer will enhance the texture and create a visually appealing finish. As they bake, these toppings will toast up nicely, adding that perfect crunch to your Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars; they are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will signal that your breakfast treat is almost ready to enjoy!

Step 10: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer to a cooling rack. Once fully cooled, slice them into squares, revealing the moist and delicious Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars ready for snacking or breakfast.

Expert Tips for Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars

Use Pure Pumpkin: Ensure you choose pure pumpkin puree to retain the bars’ intended moisture and flavor. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which is sweetened and spiced.

Fresh Baking Soda: Always check that your baking soda is fresh; this is essential for achieving a light and airy texture in your bars.

Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the desired cake-like texture.

Adjust for Baking Time: If you double the recipe for a larger pan, be ready to adjust the baking time, as thicker bars may need longer to cook through.

Parchment Paper: Use parchment paper to line your baking pan for easy removal and clean slicing, preventing any sticky mishaps when enjoying your delicious breakfast oatmeal pumpkin bars.

How to Store and Freeze Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars

Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days—perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks through the week.

Fridge: For extended freshness, keep the bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just ensure they are wrapped or in a container to avoid drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating: Enjoy these delicious Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars warm by microwaving for about 15-20 seconds. They will soften beautifully, ready for cozy moments!

Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delicious bars and customize them to fit your taste and dietary preferences!

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts. Enjoy the same comforting flavors without the allergy concerns!
Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water for each egg) and keep it plant-based while still enjoying these moist bars.
Whole Grain Goodness: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose to add extra fiber and a nuttier flavor while maintaining the bars’ soft texture.
Sweet Surprises: Add in chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a delightful twist! This not only enhances sweetness but gives an exciting burst of flavor with every bite.
Spicy Kick: Give your bars an extra layer of warmth by adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder. This subtle heat pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spices, creating a unique flavor profile.
Fruit Fusion: Swap out half the pumpkin puree for unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas. This not only adds interest but can also enhance moisture and sweetness naturally.
Seasonal Twist: For a touch of festivity, add chopped apples or pears for a tasty fruit medley that’s perfect for fall. The added texture and flavor will charm everyone!

If you’re looking for more delightful breakfast ideas, don’t forget to check out our delectable Vanilla Cheesecake Bars and scrumptious Overnight Croissant Breakfast recipes!

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, keeping their freshness intact. Additionally, the baked bars can be wrapped individually and refrigerated for up to 1 week, or frozen for up to 3 months—ideal for busy mornings. To maintain their delightful texture, ensure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly to prevent moisture loss. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or serve them at room temperature, allowing for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars

These bars are not just a treat on their own; they invite a delightful spread of pairings that will elevate your seasonal breakfast experience.

Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a cool and creamy contrast, balancing the warmth of the spices beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears will complement the warmth of the bars. This colorful side brings a delightful zing!
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the bars, making every bite feel like a fall-inspired indulgence.
Nutty Granola: Crunchy homemade granola sprinkled on top or served on the side adds a satisfying crunch, enhancing the bar’s texture.
Steaming Cup of Chai: Pair your breakfast bars with a comforting cup of chai tea, where spices harmonize with your bars for a perfectly cozy pairing.
Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee: For a morning wake-up, enjoy these bars with a cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee—it complements the pumpkin spices vibrantly.
Dark Chocolate Squares: A small piece of dark chocolate as a treat on the side adds a touch of indulgence, creating a beautiful balance of flavors.
Honey-Drizzled Ricotta: Smooth ricotta topped with honey works wonders, offering a luxurious creaminess that pairs perfectly with the spiced flavors of the bars.
Warm Applesauce: This warm, chunky applesauce provides a comforting and nostalgic side that pairs beautifully with your breakfast bars.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Indulge in the season fully with a creamy pumpkin spice latte—this delightful beverage is a match made in heaven for your breakfast.

Breakfast Oatmeal Pumpkin Bars orhzbs

Spiced Oatmeal Pumpkin Breakfast Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ripe pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting a pumpkin for your recipe, opt for a small, sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin. Look for ones that are firm, have smooth skin, and no soft spots. Avoid pumpkins that have dark spots or signs of mold; these aren’t fresh and can affect the final flavor of your bars.

How should I store my breakfast oatmeal pumpkin bars?
Very! To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just make sure they are wrapped well or in a container to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the breakfast oatmeal pumpkin bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each bar in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds to soften, bringing them back to their delightful texture.

What can I do if my breakfast bars are too dry?
If your bars turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking. Ensure you check for doneness at the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re done. If they are already baked, you can serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup or a spread of nut butter to add moisture and flavor.

Can I use substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If anyone in your household needs vegan options, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg). For gluten-free versions, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure to always check your additional ingredient options, such as oats or sugars, for any hidden allergens!