Pumpkin Chocolate Snack Bars

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the arrival of fall brings with it an abundance of pumpkin-flavored treats. From lattes to pies, pumpkin has become a beloved ingredient that evokes the warmth of the season. Among the myriad of delicious options, Pumpkin Delight Chocolate Snack Bars stand out as a healthy and indulgent choice. These bars combine the creamy richness of pumpkin, the decadent allure of chocolate, and the wholesome goodness of oats, making them a delightful snack for any time of day.

Embrace the flavors of fall with Pumpkin Delight Chocolate Snack Bars, a deliciously healthy treat that combines creamy pumpkin, rich chocolate, and wholesome oats. Packed with vitamins, healthy fats, and natural sweeteners, these bars are perfect for any occasion—whether as a post-workout snack or an afternoon indulgence. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your nutrition in check. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!

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Ingredients

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

1/2 cup almond butter (or substitute with peanut butter if preferred)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, for sweetness

1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar, for added flavor

1 teaspoon vanilla extract, to enhance the flavor

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for warmth

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, for a hint of spice

1/2 teaspoon baking powder, to help the bars rise

2 cups rolled oats, providing texture

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (or use mini chips if you like)

1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans, optional)

A pinch of salt, to balance the sweetness

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring there's some overhang on the sides to help lift out the bars later.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pure pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or a spatula to blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Add Sugars and Spices: Gradually stir in the coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in texture.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats and baking powder together. Slowly add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid over-mixing.

Add Chocolate and Nuts: Carefully fold in the dark chocolate chips and any chopped nuts (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the prepared batter into the lined baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan, ensuring it reaches all corners.

Bake: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bars are done when the edges begin to turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut: After removing from the oven, allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.

Store: Keep the bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For prolonged freshness, consider refrigerating the bars.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

- Prep Time: 15 minutes

- Total Time: 45 minutes

- Servings: 16 bars

- Optional Presentation Tips: Serve these snack bars on a decorative plate, perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra touch. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a healthy dessert!