Navigating the postpartum period can be both exciting and challenging. One of the key aspects of this time is ensuring you’re meeting your nutritional needs to support a healthy milk supply. Our Chewy Pumpkin Oat Bars are not only delicious but also packed with ingredients known as galactagogues that can help increase breastmilk production. Plus, they’re a fantastic option for baby-led weaning!

Why These Bars are Perfect for Postpartum Nutrition

These postpartum bars combine nutrient-dense ingredients that support lactation and overall health. Here’s why they’re great for new mothers:

• Rolled Oats: A rich source of iron, oats are known to help increase milk supply.

• Ground Flax Seed: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, flax seeds are beneficial for both lactation and overall health.

• Pumpkin Puree: High in vitamins and minerals, pumpkin is also a known galactagogue.

• Peanut Butter: Provides protein and healthy fats, which are essential for postpartum recovery and milk production.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 2 TB ground flax seed

• 1.5 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp cinnamon and nutmeg (or adjust to taste)

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (e.g., @lilys)

• 1/2 cup peanut butter

• 1 can pure pumpkin puree

• 1 ripe mashed banana 🍌

• 1 egg 🥚

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Oat Bars

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the rolled oats, ground flax seed, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter, pumpkin puree, mashed banana, and egg until smooth and well mixed.

4. Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

5. Spread and Bake: Pour the mixture into an 8 x 8 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Benefits for Postpartum Moms

These bars are not only a tasty treat but also provide essential nutrients for new mothers. The galactagogues in this recipe can help support your breastmilk supply, while the overall nutrient profile aids in postpartum recovery. Additionally, these bars are a great option for baby-led weaning, making them a versatile addition to your family's diet.

Want More Postpartum Nutrition Tips?

If you’re looking for more recipes and meal prep ideas to support your postpartum journey, check out my free breastfeeding nutrition mini course. It’s packed with helpful tips and recipes to help you navigate this special time.