Looking for a delicious and nutritious snack that won't derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further than these irresistible Pumpkin Protein Bars! Packed with plant-based protein and the warm flavors of fall, these vegan and gluten-free bars are not only easy to make but also perfect for on-the-go snacking. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch that will keep you energized throughout the day. Ready to indulge in a guilt-free treat? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have you and your taste buds jumping for joy!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup protein powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and almond milk. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the almond flour, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 equal bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Tips
- Measure Accurately: For the best results, make sure to measure your ingredients precisely, especially the almond flour and protein powder, as they can significantly affect the texture of your bars.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to denser bars, so a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to add in extras like chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor. Chocolate chips can also be a delightful addition for a touch of sweetness.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Storage Tips: Store your pumpkin protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them and simply thaw as needed for a quick snack.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
