Flourless Pumpkin Protein Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the natural sweetness and moisture of pumpkin with protein-rich ingredients, creating a gluten-free, grain-free, and flourless bar option. They’re easy to make, portable, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy seasonal flavors while fueling their body.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)

• 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

• 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter

• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt.

3. In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

5. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and press evenly.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.

7. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

Makes 12 bars
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.

• Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter for a nut-free option.

• Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness.

• Sprinkle with sea salt before baking for a salty-sweet contrast.

• Drizzle with melted dark chocolate after baking for extra indulgence.

storage/reheating

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. No reheating necessary; enjoy them as a grab-and-go snack.

FAQs

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, use certified gluten-free oats and protein powder to ensure gluten-free status.

Can I use different protein powders?

Yes, whey, plant-based, or collagen protein powders all work.

Are these bars vegan?

Use maple syrup or agave nectar and plant-based protein powder to keep them vegan.

Can I add other spices?

Yes, nutmeg, ginger, or cloves complement pumpkin flavor well.

How moist are these bars?

They’re moist and chewy due to pumpkin puree and almond butter.

Can I make them nut-free?

Substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.

How long do bars last?

Consume within 4 days at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.

Can I add seeds?

Yes, chia, flax, or pumpkin seeds add texture and nutrition.

Can I make these bars ahead?

Yes, they hold well and flavors improve after resting.

Are these bars suitable for meal prep?

Yes, they’re portable and nutrient-dense, great for meal prep snacks.

Conclusion

Flourless Pumpkin Protein Bars offer a delicious and healthy way to enjoy pumpkin season while fueling your body with protein and wholesome ingredients. Easy to make and perfect for on-the-go snacking, these bars are a tasty, nutritious treat everyone will enjoy.