Gluten Free Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars (Healthy Recipe)

These gluten free pumpkin oatmeal bars are the perfect breakfast or after school snack during the fall season. Made with certified gluten-free oats, a can of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice they are an extra special treat with your favorite fall flavors.

As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisper, there’s one thing on everyone’s mind: pumpkin spice! It’s the season of pumpkin everything, and today, we’re diving headfirst into the world of gluten-free pumpkin oatmeal bars. 

These delectable treats are not only incredibly easy to make but also the perfect way to embrace the cozy flavors of fall. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a delicious autumn adventure!

Pumpkin spice is to fall what sunshine is to summer. It’s a blend of warm, comforting spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and when combined with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, it creates pure magic. 

Our gluten-free pumpkin oatmeal bars are a delightful way to harness this enchanting flavor profile. If you love pumpkin season you may also like to try my Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Mug Cake or my Copycat Pumpkin Perfect Bars (Protein Recipe).

HEALTHY INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE GLUTEN FREE PUMPKIN OATMEAL BARS

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make the healthy pumpkin bars (the exact measurements, nutrition information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card below):

• Peanut butter – or nut butter of choice such as almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower butter.  
• Pure canned pumpkin puree – this is not to get confused with pumpkin pie filling with sugar and added fats. Alternatively you can also use a homemade pumpkin puree.
• Pure maple syrup
• Brown sugar or coconut sugar
• Unsweetened vanilla almond milk – can use milk of choice such as cashew milk, oat milk, coconut milk,
• Baking powder
• Pumpkin pie spice – this is what really gives it it’s pumpkin flavor
• Sea salt
• Gluten-free oats – like using quick oats, rolled oats or old-fashioned oats. Some of them will be blended into oat flour.
• Dark chocolate chips
• Optional – vanilla extract, pumpkin seeds, melted coconut oil, white chocolate chips, etc.

HOW TO MAKE

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper. 
2. In a large mixing bowl combine the peanut butter, pumpkin purée, maple syrup, brown sugar, and almond milk. 
3. In a separate bowl combine the baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, protein oats, and protein oat flour. 
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Then add chocolate chips. 
5. Add pumpkin batter to the prepared baking dish, add extra chocolate chips to the top, and bake for 32-36 minutes. 
6. Remove from oven and cut into 16 slices. You can serve with cream cheese icing (1/4 cup light cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1.5 tsp almond milk). Enjoy!

STORAGE

Storing your healthy pumpkin oat bars properly is crucial to keep them fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store them:

1. Room Temperature:

• If you plan to consume the bars within 1-2 days, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container or on a plate covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Ensure that the bars have cooled completely before storing them to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

2. Refrigerator:

• For longer-term storage, or if you live in a warm and humid climate, it’s advisable to refrigerate your pumpkin oatmeal bars.
• Place the bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use a resealable plastic bag.
• Label the container with the date to help you keep track of freshness.

3. Freezer:

• If you want to store your bars for an extended period, the freezer is your best bet.
• Individually wrap the bars in plastic wrap or parchment paper, and then place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe resealable bag.
• Label the container or bag with the date of freezing.
• Pumpkin oatmeal bars can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

WHEN TO ENJOY THESE PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP OATMEAL BARS

Gluten-free pumpkin oatmeal bars are a versatile treat that you can enjoy at various times throughout the day, depending on your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some great times to savor these delicious bars:

1. Breakfast:

• These bars make for a satisfying and healthy breakfast option. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect oatmeal breakfast bars.

2. Snack Time:

• They are perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon snack with simple ingredients. They provide a burst of energy and keep hunger at bay between meals.

3. Dessert:

• These delicious pumpkin bars can also serve as a delightful dessert after lunch or dinner. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

4. On-the-Go:

• Take them with you when you’re on the move. They are a convenient and portable snack for picnics, hikes, road trips, or a quick bite at work or school.

5. Holiday Gatherings:

• These bars are a hit at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and parties. They capture the essence of fall and make for a delightful addition to your dessert table.

6. Post-Workout Snack:

• If you’ve had a workout or physical activity, these bars can help replenish your energy levels and provide essential nutrients.

7. Tea or Coffee Break:

• Enjoy a bar with your afternoon tea or coffee. The combination of warm spices and the cozy feeling of a hot beverage is hard to resist.

8. Anytime You Crave a Delicious Treat:

• Ultimately, there’s no wrong time to indulge in the delightful flavors of these gluten-free pumpkin oatmeal bars. Whenever you have a craving for something sweet and comforting, these bars are there to satisfy your taste buds.

FAQS

ARE THESE GLUTEN-FREE PUMPKIN BARS SUITABLE FOR PEOPLE WITH CELIAC DISEASE?

Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend, these bars can be safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

CAN I SUBSTITUTE REGULAR OATS FOR GLUTEN-FREE OATS IN THIS RECIPE?

You can, but if you have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, it’s essential to use certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.

CAN I MAKE THESE OATMEAL PUMPKIN BARS DAIRY-FREE?

Absolutely! You can use a dairy-free butter or margarine substitute to make these bars dairy-free.

WHAT CAN I USE INSTEAD OF PUMPKIN PIE SPICE IF I DON’T HAVE IT ON HAND?

You can create your own pumpkin pie spice by mixing together warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. A common blend is 1 tsp of cinnamon, 1/2 tsp of nutmeg, 1/4 tsp of cloves, and 1/4 tsp of ginger.

HOW LONG DO THESE BARS STAY FRESH AT ROOM TEMPERATURE?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these bars are best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Beyond that, refrigeration or freezing is recommended for longer storage.

CAN I ADD MIX-INS LIKE DRIED FRUIT OR NUTS?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your gluten-free pumpkin oatmeal bars with your favorite mix-ins, such as chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut.

More Gluten Free Pumpkin Recipes You May Like To Try!

• Pumpkin Pie Protein Cheesecakes
• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins
• Pumpkin Waffle Recipe With Pancake Mix
• Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam
  
• Blended Pumpkin Baked Oats
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Overnight Oats

IF YOU TRIED THESE HEALTHY PUMPKIN OATMEAL BARS PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails