Imagine starting your day with a mouthwatering treat that combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie with a powerful protein punch! These Pumpkin Pie Baked Protein Oat Bars are not just a breakfast - they're a game-changing morning miracle that will transform your nutrition and satisfy your sweet tooth without guilt. Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or when you need a delicious energy boost, these bars are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup protein powder
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of protein powder, 1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 tsp of baking powder, and 1/4 tsp of salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1/3 cup of honey until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is fully incorporated and you have a thick batter. If you are using walnuts, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts at this stage.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly to ensure it holds together while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 10 equal bars. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality rolled oats for the best texture and flavor.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the baking pan to ensure compact, well-formed bars.
- For extra protein, consider using a vanilla or unflavored protein powder that complements the pumpkin pie spice.
- If you want a dairy-free version, choose a plant-based protein powder.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them set and maintain their shape.
- Customize by adding chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or additional nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
