Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there is some overhang for easy removal, and set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which could result in a tougher texture.
Once the batter is mixed, transfer it into the prepared baking dish. Use the spatula or spoon to spread it out evenly, ensuring it reaches all corners of the dish.
If desired, sprinkle the optional dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts evenly over the top of the batter. This step adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor to the bars.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the pumpkin bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish. This cooling process helps them set and ensures they maintain their shape when sliced.
Once cooled, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the bars out of the baking dish. Place them on a cutting board and slice them into squares or rectangles of your desired size.
Serve the vegan pumpkin bars immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, simply thaw them in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Useful Information:
Variations: Get creative with your vegan pumpkin bars by adding in extra ingredients such as chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even a swirl of dairy-free cream cheese frosting on top for an extra decadent touch.
Storage: Properly stored, these pumpkin bars will stay fresh for several days. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness, or freeze them for longer-term storage.
Nutritional Information: Each serving of these vegan pumpkin bars provides approximately 150 calories, 7g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 2g of protein.
Smart WW Points: With approximately 4 SmartPoints per serving on the Weight Watchers program, these pumpkin bars make for a satisfying and guilt-free treat that fits into a balanced eating plan.
About Vegan Pumpkin Bars:
Embrace the flavors of the season with these delightful vegan pumpkin bars. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome snack or a satisfying dessert, these bars are sure to hit the spot. Made with simple, plant-based ingredients like canned pumpkin, maple syrup, and coconut oil, they’re not only delicious but also easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
What sets these pumpkin bars apart is their moist and tender texture, achieved through the addition of unsweetened applesauce and coconut oil. The warm spices of pumpkin pie spice lend a comforting aroma and flavor that’s reminiscent of cozy autumn days.
Enjoy these vegan pumpkin bars as a sweet treat alongside your favorite hot beverage, or pack them in your lunchbox for a satisfying midday snack. With their versatility and irresistible taste, they’re sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire.