Friendsgiving Bliss: Vegan Pumpkin Bars to Sweeten the Season
Friendsgiving: the perfect time to gather with the friends who’ve become family and celebrate everything you’re grateful for. It’s a time of laughter, memories, and (of course) delicious food! While the turkey and sides tend to steal the spotlight, dessert is where the real magic happens. This year, why not shake things up with a sweet treat that’s equal parts indulgent and wholesome? Enter: Vegan Pumpkin Bars.
These moist, perfectly spiced bars are a healthier twist on a holiday favorite, naturally sweetened and packed with autumnal goodness. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to leave your Friendsgiving crew asking for seconds. Bonus? They’re vegan, so everyone can enjoy them!
Why These Vegan Pumpkin Bars Are Perfect for Friendsgiving
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort
Whether you’re celebrating with plant-based pals or traditional eaters, these pumpkin bars hit all the right notes. Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in the pumpkin pie spice blend bring that nostalgic fall flavor we all crave. - Healthier Decadence
With no refined sugar or oil, these bars are guilt-free without sacrificing taste. Maple syrup and ripe banana (or applesauce) lend natural sweetness, while pumpkin puree keeps them wonderfully moist. - Quick and Simple
Let’s be honest: Friendsgiving can be a whirlwind of cooking. These pumpkin bars come together in about 30 minutes, giving you one less thing to stress about. - Perfectly Versatile
Serve them plain, sprinkle on some chopped nuts, or add a dollop of creamy coconut yogurt for a dessert that can be dressed up or down depending on the vibe.
Hosting Tips for Friendsgiving with a Vegan Twist
- Create a Cozy Atmosphere
Light a pumpkin-scented candle, play a nostalgic playlist, and set a casual but festive table. Add touches like mini pumpkins or cinnamon sticks for décor that doubles as conversation starters. - Build a Balanced Menu
Pair these pumpkin bars with savory vegan dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts, lentil loaf, or a hearty vegetable pot pie to create a meal everyone will love. - Keep It Inclusive
Friendsgiving is about celebrating relationships, so ensure your menu accommodates different dietary needs. These pumpkin bars are a thoughtful addition for friends who avoid dairy, eggs, or refined sugar.
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bars
- Use Ripe Bananas: If you opt for bananas over applesauce, make sure they’re extra ripe for the best natural sweetness.
- Don’t Overmix: Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make the bars dense.
- Let Them Cool: It’s tempting to dive in right away, but letting the bars cool ensures they slice neatly and hold their shape.
A Sweet Ending to Your Celebration
There’s something special about sharing homemade food with the people you love, and these Vegan Pumpkin Bars are sure to make your Friendsgiving memorable. They’re simple to make, packed with fall flavors, and most importantly, crafted with care.
Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, this recipe is a guaranteed hit—and one you might find yourself making well beyond the holidays!
Let’s toast to friendship, gratitude, and pumpkin everything. Happy Friendsgiving!
More Friendsgiving Recipes
Vegan Pumpkin Bars
Make your Friendsgiving sweeter with these vegan pumpkin bars! Moist, spiced to perfection, and naturally sweetened. A healthier holiday treat!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
Optional
To Make
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Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
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In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice.
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In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, banana, maple syrup, and vanilla.
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Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
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Pour the batter into the baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle with nuts if using.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
Servings 9
Serving Size bar
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 80kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1g2%
- Sodium 80mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 17g6%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 7g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Serving Suggestion: These bars are perfect on their own or topped with a dollop of coconut yogurt.
