Pumpkin Yogurt Swirl Bars

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there's an undeniable joy in baking seasonal treats that celebrate the flavors of fall. One such delightful creation is the Pumpkin Yogurt Swirl Bars. This recipe captures the essence of autumn with its warm, comforting flavors and a fusion of textures that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The combination of pumpkin and yogurt not only creates a visually appealing dessert with its beautiful swirls, but it also brings a host of nutritional benefits that make it a guilt-free indulgence.

Indulge in the flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Yogurt Swirl Bars! Perfectly capturing autumn's essence, this recipe combines creamy pumpkin and tangy yogurt for a deliciously wholesome treat. Packed with nutrients from oats and almond flour, these bars are guilt-free and satisfying. Their beautiful marbled appearance adds to their charm, making them ideal for a snack, breakfast, or dessert at gatherings. Enjoy the cozy vibes of the season with every bite!

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Ingredients

For the Base:

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup almond flour

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a vegan option)

1/4 cup maple syrup

For the Pumpkin Yogurt Swirl:

1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative)

1 cup pure pumpkin puree

1/4 cup honey or agave syrup for vegan

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon pumpkin spice blend (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)

For Topping:

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Prepare the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and maple syrup until the mixture is well combined and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even base.

Create the Pumpkin Yogurt Swirl: In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, pumpkin puree, honey (or agave), vanilla extract, and pumpkin spice blend until smooth and creamy.

Layer the Bars: Spread the pumpkin yogurt mixture evenly over the oat base in the baking pan. Use a spatula to ensure an even layer.

Create Swirls: Use a knife or a toothpick to create gentle swirls in the pumpkin yogurt mixture. This will give a beautiful marbled effect to the bars.

Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle the chopped nuts and pumpkin seeds on top for added texture and crunch.

Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly firm. The top should be lightly golden.

Cool Down: Once baked, take the pan out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting.

Slice and Serve: Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve them chilled or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 12 bars