PUMPKIN GRANOLA BARS

PUMPKIN GRANOLA BARS image

Yield 12 bars

Number Of Ingredients 12

3 cups old fashioned oats
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup applesauce (sweetened or unsweetened, your choice)
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds, shelled

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 9x9 baking pan with foil allowing for 1 inch overhang on the sides of the pan. Spray foil with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, combine oats, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Set aside. 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pumpkin puree, applesauce, honey, and vanilla until smooth. Pour over oats and stir until oats are moistened. Stir in cranberries, white chocolate chips, pecans and pumpkin seeds. 4. Evenly press oat mixture into prepared pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Be sure not to underbake. Remove to a cooling rack to cool completely. 5. Use a sharp knife or circular cookie cutter (see note below) to cut into bars.