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No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars

A close-up view of freshly made no-bake pumpkin spice granola bars arranged on a rustic wooden cutting board. The granola bars are cut into perfect squares, showcasing a texture rich with oats, pumpkin seeds, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Around the bars, there are small bowls filled with pumpkin puree, honey, and a dusting of pumpkin spice, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft natural sunlight filters through a nearby window, illuminating the scene and casting gentle shadows. The background features blurred autumn leaves, enhancing the cozy seasonal vibe. The overall mood is warm, inviting, and perfect for healthy snacking.

These No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with cozy fall flavor. Made with real pumpkin puree, warm spices, and hearty oats, they’re the perfect no-bake snack for autumn mornings, lunchboxes, or a healthier sweet treat—no oven required.

Ingredients

  • 2½ cups rolled oats
  • ½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • ½ cup creamy almond butter or peanut butter
  • ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional add-ins:

  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds or ground flaxseed
  • ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (dairy-free if desired)

Equipment Needed

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • 8×8-inch baking dish
  • Parchment paper

Tips & Variations

  • Firmer bars: Because pumpkin adds moisture, press the mixture very firmly into the pan and chill for at least 2–3 hours.
  • Extra spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for deeper fall flavor.
  • Vegan-friendly: Use maple syrup and dairy-free add-ins.
  • Nut-free option: Swap nut butter for sunflower seed butter.
  • Storage: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6–7 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Rest Time 30 mins
Total Time 1 hr 30 mins
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 12
Estimated Cost: 10
Calories: 240 kcal
Best Season: Fall
Description

Rich in flavor and goodness, these no-bake pumpkin spice granola bars are packed with oats, nuts, and just the right amount of sweetness, making them a wholesome treat for any time of the day.

Ingredients
    Ingredients for No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars
  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (Make sure they're gluten-free if needed.)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (Use canned or homemade for best flavor.)
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (Maple syrup adds a nice depth of flavor.)
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter (Creamy nut butter works best for texture.)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavors.)
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice (Store-bought or homemade works well.)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) (Choose your favorite nuts for added crunch.)
  • 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots) (Adds a nice touch of sweetness.)
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional) (For a sweet surprise in every bite.)
Instructions
    Gather Your Ingredients
  1. 1
    Combine the Dry IngredientsIn a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of nuts (like pecans or walnuts), 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.
    Feel free to use any nuts or seeds you have on hand; just make sure to chop them finely for an even texture.
    2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
  2. 2
    Prepare the Binding MixtureIn a small saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup of nut butter (like almond or peanut butter), 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
    Make sure you don’t let it boil; we just want it warm enough to combine well. This step is where the magic begins!
    3. Combine Everything
  3. 3
    Mix Wet and Dry IngredientsPour the warm nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure everything is well-coated and sticky.
    It might be a bit tough to mix at first, but keep at it! The warmth helps everything stick together.
    4. Shape the Bars
  4. 4
    Press into a PanLine an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish, pressing firmly to create an even layer. Make sure it's compact to keep the bars from crumbling later.
    Dampen your hands slightly if the mixture is too sticky while pressing.
    5. Chill and Set
  5. 5
    Refrigerate to Firm UpCover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set. This helps the bars hold their shape when cut.
    If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes instead.
    6. Cut and Enjoy
  6. 6
    Slice into BarsOnce set, lift the mixture out of the baking dish using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and slice into bars of your desired size.
    A sharp knife works best! You can also wrap them individually for easy grab-and-go snacks.
Note
  • For a nut-free version, substitute almond butter with sun butter or tahini.
  • Use rolled oats for a chewy texture; quick oats will yield a softer bar.
  • Toasting the oats and nuts lightly before mixing can enhance their flavor—about 5-7 minutes at 350°F.
  • For added sweetness, consider drizzling honey or maple syrup over the top before chilling.
  • If you prefer crunchy bars, increase the amount of nuts or seeds.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
  • These bars can be frozen for longer storage; wrap individually for easy grab-and-go snacks.
  • Experiment with mix-ins like dark chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or coconut flakes for variety.
  • To make cutting easier, use a sharp knife and lightly oil the blade.
Keywords: pumpkin spice, granola bars, no-bake, healthy snacks, fall recipes
Read it online: https://bestrecipesblog.com/recipe/no-bake-pumpkin-spice-granola-bars/