Imagine biting into a decadent, perfectly spiced bar that captures the essence of fall in every single bite - without dairy, without guilt, and with ALL the flavor! These Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oat Bars are about to revolutionize your breakfast and dessert game, offering a velvety, nutrient-packed treat that looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery. Whether you're a dedicated vegan, a pumpkin spice enthusiast, or simply someone who loves mind-blowing recipes, this creation will make your taste buds dance with pure autumnal joy!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp pumpkin spice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup vegan white chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine steel cut oats and almond milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the oats are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the oat mixture from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. Stir in pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin spice, and salt until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the oat mixture to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly and pressing down firmly with a spatula to create a compact base.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan, about 20-25 minutes.
- For the glaze, melt vegan white chocolate chips with coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Once the oat bars are completely cooled, drizzle the white chocolate glaze evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set the glaze, then cut into 12 equal bars.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality pumpkin puree for the most vibrant flavor - avoid watery canned versions.
- Toast your steel cut oats briefly before cooking for an enhanced nutty undertone.
- Ensure your white chocolate glaze is smooth by melting slowly and stirring constantly.
- For extra texture, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts or pumpkin seeds on top before baking.
- Allow bars to cool completely to achieve the perfect, firm consistency.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce maple syrup and add a touch of cinnamon.
- These bars freeze beautifully - store in an airtight container for up to a month!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
