Apple Pumpkin Granola Delight
Enjoy the vibrant flavours of autumn anytime with this quick, wholesome snack. Creamy pumpkin purée, crisp diced apple, and crunchy Nature Valley™ Oats & Honey bars come together for a delicious blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredient List
- 200 g full-fat soft cheese
- 4 tablespoons tinned pumpkin purée
- 2 Nature Valley™ Crunchy Oats & Honey Granola Bars
- 1/2 red apple, cored and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
Preparation
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Prep Ingredients
Gather
2 Nature Valley™ Oats & Honey Bars
½ red apple (diced)
200g full-fat soft cheese
4 tbsp tinned pumpkin purée (or use smooth peanut butter)
Maple syrup & ground cinnamon -
Make the Pumpkin Cream Cheese
Mix soft cheese with pumpkin purée until smooth and creamy. This makes your flavourful spread. -
Spread the Base
Unwrap the granola bars and spread about 2 tsp of pumpkin cream cheese on top of each. -
Add Toppings
Top with diced apple, a drizzle of maple syrup (½ tsp per bar), and a light sprinkle of cinnamon. -
Serve Fresh
Enjoy right away for the best texture—a satisfying combo of creamy, crunchy, and fruity. -
Store Leftover Spread
Keep leftover pumpkin cheese in the fridge (airtight container) for 2–3 days. Try it on toast, bagels, or crumpets too! -
Customise
Swap apples for pears, peaches, or berries. Nature Valley bars are a perfect base for seasonal flavours. -
Share the Joy
Love it? Snap a photo and share with your crew—this is a snack worth passing on!
Made With
Why you'll love this recipe
Looking for a refreshing way to brighten your snack time or enjoy a delightfully satisfying dessert? This simple, quick-to-create treat is perfect for life's busy moments—without compromising on flavour.
How to customise the recipe for your taste
Try swapping the diced apple for seasonal local fruits like fresh pears in autumn or juicy peaches during summer to celebrate the best of Australia’s abundant produce. – For an indulgent touch, why not sprinkle shredded coconut or toasted macadamia nuts on top, adding delicious texture and enhancing your snack experience.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- To enhance the sweetness and texture of your granola snack, try lightly toasting the diced apples before garnishing. Simply sauté apple chunks over a medium heat pan with a dash of cinnamon; it intensifies flavour and adds warmth without much extra effort.
- Prefer it chilled? Assemble these delicious bars ahead of time and pop them in the fridge. Serving cold boosts flavour intensity and offers a satisfying crunchy-chewy contrast that’s perfect on warm Australian afternoons.
- Don’t waste leftover pumpkin and cream cheese spread! Store it in a sealed container in the fridge to spread generously over bagels, toast or even warm banana bread the next day. It makes for a handy mid-afternoon snack or a delightful brunch addition.
- Want to mix it up? Experiment with local Australian ingredients by switching diced apples with chopped pears or fresh stone fruits like peaches or nectarines when they’re in season. It’ll bring unique Aussie flavour and added fruitiness.
- If canned pumpkin purée seems elusive, freshly roasted pumpkin makes a delightful substitute. Just roast diced pumpkin pieces in the oven, let them cool, then puree until smooth to create your own delicious homemade spread.
- Craving a crunchier topping? Sprinkle a handful of toasted oats, pepitas or sunflower seeds over the top of your finished bars. It adds both crunch and visual appeal without overshadowing the original dish.
- To make drizzling the maple syrup easier—and neater—pop it in the microwave for 5 seconds before using. Warm syrup spreads evenly and offers the perfect finishing touch to your creation.”
Troubleshooting Guide
Making homemade granola bars can occasionally involve a few small bumps along the road. Don’t stress – we’ve got you covered with these simple tips to perfect your kitchen masterpiece. If you notice the pumpkin purée and soft cheese mixture is too thin or runny, firstly make sure you have thoroughly mixed the ingredients.
