Go Back
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, fall invites us to indulge in the seasonal flavors that define this cozy time of year. One of the most cherished flavors of autumn is pumpkin spice, and what better way to celebrate it than with a homemade batch of Harvest Harmony Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars? These nutritious bars are not only a delightful snack option but also a wholesome breakfast choice, blending wholesome ingredients with that comforting pumpkin spice flavor. In this article, we will delve into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some insights into the benefits of each component, ensuring you can create your own perfect batch of granola bars.

Warm Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars

Embrace the flavors of fall with Harvest Harmony Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars, a delicious and nutritious homemade snack. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat, these bars combine rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they are customizable to suit your tastes. Enjoy the comforting taste of pumpkin spice while knowing you're indulging in a healthier option. Dive into the joy of baking and savor the season!

Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup unsalted almonds, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1 cup pumpkin puree (ensure it's pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)

1/2 cup almond butter (can substitute with peanut butter)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional for added sweetness)

1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional for a delightful treat)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x9-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing for some overhang. This will make it easier to lift the granola bars out after baking.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, coarsely chopped almonds, pumpkin seeds, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Stir the ingredients together until they are well combined and the spices are evenly distributed throughout.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until the combination is smooth and fully blended, creating a cohesive wet mixture.

        Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix thoroughly until all dry ingredients are fully coated with the sticky pumpkin mixture. Ensure that there are no dry patches left.

          Add Optional Ingredients: If you’d like an extra burst of flavor and texture, gently fold in the dried cranberries or raisins and the mini chocolate chips into the mixture.

            Press into Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spatula or your fingertips to firmly press the mixture down evenly into the dish. It’s important to compact it tightly to help the bars hold together once they are baked.

              Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the granola bars turn a lovely golden brown. Make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

                Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the granola bars to cool in the baking dish for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully use the parchment overhang to lift the entire block of granola out of the dish. Allow it to cool completely before slicing it into bars or squares.

                  Store: Store the cooled granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer preservation, refrigerate them.

                    Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Yield: 12 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: Arrange the bars on a platter and sprinkle some extra pumpkin seeds or a light dusting of cinnamon on top for an attractive touch before serving.