As the golden hues of autumn leaves blanket the ground, there’s something incredibly heartwarming about gathering in the kitchen to whip up treats that reflect the season’s rich, cozy essence. Our Spiced Pumpkin Seed Protein Bars are the perfect autumn delight—combining the warmth of seasonal spices with the crunch and nutrition of pumpkin seeds. Whether you’re searching for a wholesome snack to share with your family or a creative outlet on a crisp fall afternoon, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides for easy lifting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, gently heat the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) until melted and smoothly combined. This should take about 30 seconds in the microwave.
- Add the canned pumpkin puree and vanilla extract to the melted almond butter mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the top evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the bars are set and the edges are lightly browned.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out by the parchment paper and cutting them into 12 even pieces.
Helpful Tips
For an extra crunch, toast the pumpkin seeds lightly before adding them to the mix. If you prefer a sweeter bar, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top. These bars are versatile; you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
Storage Instructions
Store these protein bars in an airtight container. They will keep at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings
These Spiced Pumpkin Seed Protein Bars are delightful when paired with a hot cup of chai tea or a glass of cold almond milk. They also complement an autumn-inspired fruit salad or a side of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey.
At Zynahz, we’re passionate about transforming everyday cooking into joyous, creative experiences. We hope these Spiced Pumpkin Seed Protein Bars bring a touch of seasonal magic into your kitchen. We’d love to hear how they turned out—share your photos and stories with us! Don’t forget to spread the joy by sharing this recipe with friends and family. And for more delicious inspiration, explore our website, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter.
