Pumpkin Granola Bar

If you’re looking for a wholesome, cozy, and flavorful snack, these Pumpkin Granola Bars are a must-try! Made with rolled oats, sourdough discard (or active starter), creamy pumpkin, warm spices, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, they’re perfectly chewy, lightly spiced, and full of autumn flavor.

The sourdough discard gives them a subtle tang while helping to bind everything together—plus, it’s a great way to use up extra starter!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Granola Bars

✔ Fall Flavors – Pumpkin, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and allspice make these cozy and seasonal.✔ Customizable – Choose prunes or dates, add nuts or seeds, or make them extra chocolatey.✔ Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugar—just maple syrup and dried fruit.✔ Meal Prep Friendly – Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a sweet treat.

The Recipe: Pumpkin Granola Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats

• ½ cup sourdough discard (unfed or active both work!)

• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional but delicious)

• ⅓ cup chopped dates or prunes (for natural sweetness)

• 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for added fiber and nutrients)

• ½ cup pumpkin purée

• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup

• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp nutmeg

• ¼ tsp allspice

• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dates/Prunes

• Soak chopped dates or prunes in hot water for 5 minutes.

• Drain and mash into a paste using a stand mixer or by hand.

📌 The mixer gives a smoother blend, but hand-mashing works too.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

• Add oats, sourdough discard, pumpkin purée, maple syrup, pumpkin seeds, chocolate chips, salt, vanilla, and spices into the bowl.

• Mix thoroughly until everything is combined and evenly coated.

Step 3: Shape & Bake

• Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan and press the mixture firmly into it.

• Bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes, until the top is lightly golden.

• Cut the bars while still warm. My favorite way is to use a bench scraper to cut the bars while they are still in the pan. Then allow to fully cool before removing!

NO SOURDOUGH STARTER? No worries: Step 3:

• Simply replace the 1/2 cup of starter with another 1/2 cup of pumpkin!

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

🥡 Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 1 week. Wrap individually for grab-and-go.❄️ Freeze: Wrap each bar in wax paper or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Ways to Customize

• 🌰 Add Nuts – Walnuts, pecans, or almonds for extra crunch.

• 🍓 Swap the Fruit – Try dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots.

• 🍫 Extra Chocolatey – Drizzle melted chocolate on top after cooling.

• 🥥 Add Texture – Mix in shredded coconut or flaxseed.

Why These Pumpkin Granola Bars Are a Must-Try

These granola bars are cozy, healthy, and easy to make with pantry staples. They combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the satisfying chew of oats, making them perfect for fall snacking, meal prep, or even a festive treat for holiday gatherings.

If you bake a batch, tag me on Instagram @Weeknight_Homemaker—I’d love to see your creations!

Happy baking! 🎃💛

— Lauren

The Weeknight Homemaker