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In the quest for healthy breakfast options, homemade snacks often steal the spotlight. Not only do they allow for control over ingredients, but they also ensure that you start your day with something nutritious and delicious. One such wholesome choice is the Pumpkin Pecan Breakfast Bars, which combine the goodness of pumpkin with crunchy pecans for a satisfying morning treat.

Quick Pumpkin Pecan Breakfast Bars

Start your mornings with cozy Pumpkin Pecan Breakfast Bars, a delicious blend of pumpkin and crunchy pecans that captures the essence of fall. These easy weeknight breakfast bars are packed with fiber and healthy fats, offering a comforting start to your day. Perfect for busy mornings, theyre quick to make and even better to savor. Save this recipe for later and bring a touch of autumn to your breakfast table!

Ingredients
  

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup pumpkin puree (either canned or homemade)

1/2 cup maple syrup (substituting with honey is an option)

1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter

1/2 cup chopped pecans

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional, for added sweetness and texture)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring that there is some overhang on the sides. This will help you remove the bars easily after baking.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, peanut butter (or almond butter), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

        Combine Mixtures: Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold the mixtures together until just combined; be cautious not to overmix. If desired, fold in the chopped pecans and optionally add the dried cranberries or raisins for an additional flavor dimension.

          Transfer to Baking Pan: Carefully spread the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or a spatula to press the mixture firmly into an even layer.

            Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know they are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Cool and Slice: Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice them into bars of your desired size.

                Serve or Store: Enjoy these delightful bars warm or at room temperature. For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 16 bars

                    Presentation Tips: For an attractive presentation, serve the bars on a wooden platter and garnish with whole pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Consider pairing with a side of yogurt for a wholesome breakfast or snack option.