Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful 6-ingredient oatmeal apple pumpkin bars.
Perfect for breakfast on-the-go, a midday snack, or a healthy dessert, these bars are simple to make and bursting with autumnal goodness.
With wholesome oats, sweet apples, and creamy pumpkin, each bite is a comforting hug for your taste buds.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Rolled oats – 2 cups
- Applesauce – 1 cup
- Canned pumpkin puree – 1 cup
- Honey or maple syrup – 1/4 cup
- Pumpkin pie spice – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (8×8 inches)
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, applesauce, pumpkin puree, honey or maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Spread Mixture:
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to smooth the top.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Slice:
Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for 10 minutes, then carefully lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into bars.
Serve:
Serve the oatmeal apple pumpkin bars as a nutritious snack or dessert. Enjoy!
Nutritional Facts
Servings: 9 bars
Calories per serving: Approximately 130
Total Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 70mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Total Sugars: 13g
Protein: 3g
Health Benefits
The “6-Ingredient Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars Recipe” can offer several health benefits, especially if made with wholesome ingredients and in moderation:
Oats:
Oats are a whole grain rich in fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote digestive health.
Oats also provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron.
Apples:
Apples are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
They contain soluble fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and promote feelings of fullness.
Apples also provide vitamin C, potassium, and various phytonutrients that support heart health, immune function, and overall well-being.
Pumpkin:
Pumpkin is a nutrient-dense vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
The beta-carotene in pumpkin may help improve eye health, while the antioxidants support immune function and reduce inflammation.
Eggs:
Eggs are a nutritious source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals.
They provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth, as well as nutrients like vitamin B12, vitamin D, and choline, which support brain health and overall well-being.
Maple Syrup or Honey:
Some recipes for oatmeal apple pumpkin bars may use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey instead of refined sugar.
While these sweeteners still contain sugar, they also provide small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to refined sugar.
Spices:
Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are often used in this recipe to enhance flavor without the need for excess sugar or unhealthy fats.
These spices also offer potential health benefits, including improved blood sugar control, reduced inflammation, and enhanced digestion.
Minimal Ingredients:
This recipe contains only six ingredients, making it simple and easy to prepare.
By using whole, minimally processed ingredients, you can avoid added sugars, preservatives, and artificial additives commonly found in packaged snacks and desserts.
Overall, the 6-Ingredient Oatmeal Apple Pumpkin Bars Recipe offers a balance of flavor and nutrition, making it a satisfying and healthier alternative to many store-bought snacks.
Enjoying these bars in moderation as part of a balanced diet can help you reap the potential health benefits of their wholesome ingredients.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned. Simply cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth.
2. Can I omit the honey/maple syrup for a lower-sugar option?
Certainly! You can reduce or omit the sweetener altogether if you prefer a less sweet bar.
3. How should I store leftover bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.
4. Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the bars by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
5. Can I freeze these bars for later?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.