Introduction
These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars combine the warm, cozy flavors of fall with a delightful chewy texture. Packed with oats, pumpkin puree, and spices, and topped with a luscious layer of chocolate frosting, these bars are the ultimate autumn dessert. They’re perfect for sharing at potlucks, serving during the holidays, or simply enjoying with a hot cup of coffee.
Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or an oatmeal fan, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and make your kitchen smell like autumn bliss.
Recipe: How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 ½ cups (150g) old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120g) brown sugar
For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup (120g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, mix the oats, flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to the dry ingredients. Stir until combined and crumbly.
- Press ⅔ of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust. Reserve the remaining mixture for topping.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth and well-mixed.
- Pour the pumpkin filling over the oat crust and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Add the Crumb Topping
- Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the pumpkin filling, covering it evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips and heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and glossy.
- Spread or pipe the chocolate topping over the cooled bars.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the bars for 1 hour to set the chocolate.
- Remove the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares.
Notes
- Pumpkin Purée: Ensure you use pure pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling.
- Customize the Toppings: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.
- Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer. Old-fashioned oats provide more structure and chewiness.
2. Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips.
3. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. How can I make the chocolate topping richer?
Use dark chocolate chips or add a tablespoon of butter to the chocolate and cream mixture for extra richness.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are a delicious combination of hearty oats, spiced pumpkin filling, and rich chocolate topping. Easy to make and full of fall flavors, they’re a dessert everyone will love. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cozy afternoon snack, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Don’t wait for fall—grab some pumpkin puree and give these bars a try today!