Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why Make This Pumpkin Seed Bars
Pumpkin Seed Bars are a delightful blend of nutty, crunchy pumpkin seeds and wholesome oats, making them the perfect snack for any time of the day. They offer a wonderful balance of sweetness from the honey or maple syrup and creamy nuttiness from your choice of nut butter. Not only are these bars easy to make, but they also pack a punch of nutrition, providing energy and essential nutrients. Whether you’re on a mid-morning break, an afternoon slump, or need a post-workout boost, these bars are a delicious way to satisfy your cravings.
How to Make Pumpkin Seed Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup nut butter (like almond or peanut)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
### Step 2: Mixing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin seeds, oats, honey (or maple syrup), nut butter, and salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and you see a uniform consistency.
### Step 3: Cooking
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press it down evenly to ensure that the bars hold together during cooking. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
### Step 4: Finishing
After baking, allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before cutting them into squares or rectangles. Enjoy your wholesome pumpkin seed bars as a nutritious snack!
How to Serve Pumpkin Seed Bars
These bars are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a quick breakfast on-the-go, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a post-workout snack. You can pair them with yogurt or a fresh fruit smoothie for a more substantial meal. They make ideal lunchbox treats for kids and are perfect for sharing at gatherings.
How to Store Pumpkin Seed Bars
Store your homemade pumpkin seed bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they will last for about two weeks. If you want to keep some for later, they freeze beautifully; just wrap them individually and freeze for up to three months.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Seed Bars
- For extra flavor, consider toasting the pumpkin seeds before mixing them into the bars.
- Experiment with different nut butters, such as cashew or sunflower seed butter, for varied taste profiles.
- If you prefer a sweeter bar, add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- To make these bars easier to cut, refrigerate them for a short while after baking.
Delicious Variations
- Add dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots for a chewy texture.
- Mix in seeds like sunflower or chia seeds for added nutrition and flavor.
- Substitute the oats with gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option.
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for a sweet treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use raw pumpkin seeds?
- Yes, raw pumpkin seeds work perfectly fine in this recipe. Roasting them can enhance their flavor, but it’s not necessary.
- Can I make these bars vegan?
- Absolutely! Just use maple syrup and a vegan nut butter to keep it plant-based.
- How do I make them nut-free?
- Substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter and ensure your oats and other ingredients are processed in a nut-free facility to avoid cross-contamination.
- What’s the best way to cut the bars?
- Greasing your knife or using a sharp knife can help make cleaner cuts. For best results, cut them once they’re completely cool.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Yes! Simply double all of the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Seed Bars are not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious. The combination of flavors and textures will make them a favorite in your snack lineup. Whether you enjoy them after a workout or need a quick breakfast on a busy morning, they are sure to delight your taste buds. Give this recipe a try and experience the wholesome goodness of homemade snacks! Happy baking!
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Pumpkin Seed Bars
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful blend of nutty pumpkin seeds and wholesome oats, these bars are perfect for a nutritious snack any time of the day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup nut butter (like almond or peanut)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin seeds, oats, honey (or maple syrup), nut butter, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
Notes
For extra flavor, toast the pumpkin seeds beforehand. Experiment with different nut butters and add spices for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
