Irresistible Pumpkin Bars: A Cozy Autumn Delight Recipe

The aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bars wafts through the air, tempting you with its warm, spiced scent. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, moist slice, where the sweetness of pumpkin meets the comforting embrace of cinnamon and nutmeg, making every bite feel like a hug from Grandma.

You remember those crisp autumn days, when the leaves turned golden and the world seemed to slow down a bit. Family gatherings were never complete without Grandma’s famous pumpkin bars. They were the stars of every potluck, vanishing faster than you could say “pumpkin spice latte.” Get ready to recreate that nostalgic experience in your kitchen!

Ingredients for pumpkin bars

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to select pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling for better control over sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Brown Sugar: It gives a rich depth of flavor; light or dark brown sugar works well for this recipe.
• Eggs: They bind everything together and add moisture; make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bars moist; you can substitute with melted coconut oil if preferred.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure; sift it beforehand for a lighter texture.
• Baking Powder: Gives the bars that lovely lift; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
• Baking Soda: Works alongside baking powder for perfect texture; check expiration date before use.
• Cinnamon: The quintessential spice that brings warmth; feel free to add more if you’re a fan!
• Nutmeg: Just a pinch elevates the flavor profile; freshly grated nutmeg is even better.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make pumpkin bars

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan (typically an 8×8 or a 9×13) with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. Whisk until everything is well blended and smooth—think creamy goodness!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your pumpkin bars.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! You want it fluffy like your favorite pillow.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—no one likes soggy squares!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked to perfection, let your pumpkin bars cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack. Cut into squares when completely cooled and get ready to enjoy!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with cream cheese frosting or serve plain—either way is deliciously satisfying!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best pumpkin bars, start by preheating your oven while you mix your dry ingredients. Blend the wet ingredients separately for optimal texture, then combine them gently. Pour the batter into the pan and bake until perfectly set.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize these pumpkin bars! Swap in different spices like ginger or nutmeg for a flavor twist. Add chocolate chips or nuts for crunch, or even use maple syrup instead of sugar for a unique sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge—perfectly delicious either way!

I once brought these pumpkin bars to a potluck, and they vanished faster than my hopes of winning at bingo that night! The compliments were endless, and I left feeling like a baking rockstar.

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for pumpkin bars?

To make delicious pumpkin bars, you’ll need basic ingredients like canned or fresh pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Additionally, spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger enhance the flavor. Don’t forget baking powder and a pinch of salt. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and richness. These ingredients combine to create moist and flavorful bars that are perfect for any autumn gathering.

How do you store leftover pumpkin bars?

To keep your leftover pumpkin bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer without losing their delightful flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in pumpkin bars?

Yes, you can substitute several ingredients in pumpkin bars to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For instance, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix instead of regular flour. To reduce sugar content, consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. You can also replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan version. Just remember that substitutions may alter the texture slightly.

How long do pumpkin bars take to bake?

Pumpkin bars typically take about 25 to 30 minutes to bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Baking times may vary based on your oven and the size of your baking pan, so keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion for pumpkin bars:

Pumpkin bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall with their rich flavors and moist texture. By using simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and warm spices, you can create these delicious snacks easily at home. Proper storage ensures they remain fresh and tasty for days. Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions to meet your dietary needs without compromising flavor. Enjoy making and sharing these scrumptious pumpkin bars with friends and family!

Print

Delicious Pumpkin Bars

• Author: Camiliya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Deliciously spiced pumpkin bars that capture the essence of autumn in every moist bite—perfect for gatherings or a cozy treat at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 or a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool for about ten minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 60g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.