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As the leaves start to change color and a crispness fills the air, there's an undeniable charm in cozy snacks that embody the essence of the fall season. Nothing captures the spirit of autumn quite like the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin spice. This beloved flavor profile isn't just for lattes and desserts; it has found its way into a myriad of recipes that celebrate the harvest. Among these, homemade granola bars stand out as a delightful and nutritious option, perfectly suited for busy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even on-the-go snacking.

Warm Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars

Discover the warmth of fall with homemade Cozy Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars! Perfect for busy mornings or a nutritious snack, these bars combine rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, nuts, and spices to create a wholesome treat. With the freedom to customize ingredients, you can tailor them to your taste. Packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants, they not only satisfy your cravings but also promote health. Embrace autumn flavors and make these delicious bars your go-to snack!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

1/2 cup chopped almonds

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup nut butter (e.g., almond or peanut butter)

1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional but highly recommended)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring to leave some overhang on the sides for easy lifting once the bars are baked.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, chopped almonds, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, ground allspice, and salt. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices and other ingredients are evenly blended together.

      Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the nut butter, pumpkin puree, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until the consistency is smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps.

        Combine the Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or your hands, mix everything together until fully combined. If you opt for a touch of sweetness, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips at this stage.

          Transfer to the Baking Pan: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Utilize your fingers or the back of a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly across the pan. This step is crucial for ensuring that the granola bars hold together once baked.

            Bake the Granola Bars: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.

              Cool and Slice: After baking, carefully remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan and let it cool on a wire rack for another 30 minutes. Once cooled completely, slice them into bars or squares.

                Store: Savor your granola bars right away, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extended freshness, keep them in the refrigerator.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 bars

                    Optional Presentation Tips: Serve the granola bars stacked in a lovely basket lined with parchment paper, or individually wrapped in clear cellophane for a delightful homemade gift. Sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon before serving for an extra touch of charm.