Pumpkin Pecan Bars

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Deliciously baked Pumpkin Pecan Bars topped with pecans and spices

Pumpkin Pecan Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall with their warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor. These sweet, chewy bars topped with a crunchy pecan layer are both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or serving them at a holiday gathering, they are sure to impress with their comforting taste and inviting aroma.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Servings: 16 bars
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 210
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 90mg

Why Make This Pumpkin Pecan Bars

Pumpkin Pecan Bars are a fantastic dessert option that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and toasted pecans, offering a perfect balance of sweet and nutty. They are a versatile treat ideal for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties. The bars not only taste delicious but also fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting scent of autumn spices. Plus, they are simple to prepare and can easily be made in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze!

How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Bars

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This step ensures that your bars will come out easily, with no sticky remnants left behind.

Step 2: Mixing

In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Using a fork or your fingers, mix these ingredients until they become crumbly. Once combined, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a sturdy crust.

Step 3: Cooking

In a separate large bowl, stir together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the crust you prepared earlier, spreading it evenly to cover the entire base. Sprinkle 1 cup of chopped pecans generously on top.

Step 4: Finishing

Bake your bars in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the bars comes out clean. Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Bars

Serve your Pumpkin Pecan Bars at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference. They make a delightful addition to a dessert platter or can be enjoyed on their own. Consider pairing them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

How to Store Pumpkin Pecan Bars

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, be sure to refrigerate them, where they will last for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and then in foil for optimal freshness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Pecan Bars

  • Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, a quick 10-second burst in the microwave can help.
  • For a more pronounced flavor, lightly toast your chopped pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture.
  • Don’t skip cooling the bars completely; this will help them set properly and make them easier to cut into neat squares.

Delicious Variations

  • Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference.
  • Try adding chocolate chips to the pumpkin filling for a sweet twist.
  • Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin puree?
    Yes, you can use cooked and pureed fresh pumpkin, but ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

  • What if I don’t have all the spices listed?
    You can use pumpkin pie spice as a substitute for the individual spices; just use about 2 teaspoons.

  • Can I make these bars vegan?
    Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative.

  • What can I serve with these bars?
    They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of ice cream, enhancing the dessert experience.

  • How do I cut the bars neatly?
    Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean cuts. For a cleaner cut, wipe the knife between each slice.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Pecan Bars offer a warm and inviting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Their combination of smooth, spiced pumpkin and crunchy pecan topping creates a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether served during the fall season or as a year-round dessert, these bars are sure to bring joy to your kitchen. So grab your ingredients and give this easy recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!

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