Anyone else feel an extra urge to bake as soon as the weather gets chilly? Last Friday my friend and I stayed in, drinking wine and making apple pies and it was pretty much my ideal night. I tried a new recipe this week and loved it so much I thought I would share it with all of you: healthy, homemade pumpkin chocolate chip granola bars. I’ve made my own granola a million times but have never actually tried making granola bars. I think it may be a frequent weekend activity from now on! They’re the perfect on-the-go breakfast or post-workout snack, and who doesn’t love a little pumpkin spice in October?
Recipe: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Granola Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (regular or gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup mini or regular chocolate chips (I used dark chocolate)
Directions:
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Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and lightly coat the sides of the pan with cooking spray.
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Mix together oats, pecans, chia seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a large bowl.
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In a smaller bowl, whisk together pumpkin, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry, and mix until dry ingredients are completely incorporated. Slowly fold in chocolate chips.
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Spoon granola mixture into prepared pan. Pack the granola into the pan, making sure it’s tight and compact by pressing it down into the pan.
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Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool for at least 10 minutes (they will be a little soft when you take them out). Once cooled, remove the bars by lifting the parchment paper out of the pan. Cut into squares (I actually froze mine for a few minutes before cutting, which made it easier for me).
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These can be stored in an airtight container for 3 days, in the fridge for 1 week, or in the freezer for even longer.
Happy Saturday!
— Carolyn
(Original recipe via Wholesomelicious.)
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