Creamy Pumpkin Pecan Delight Bars
Indulge in these delightful Creamy Pumpkin Pecan Bars that perfectly blend the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a rich, creamy frosting. This easy recipe is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or simply to satisfy your pumpkin cravings year-round. With a moist and tender base layered with crunchy pecans and a smooth cream cheese frosting, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike. Share the joy of baking with this simple yet delicious treat!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
sugar
2 cups (granulated)
canned pumpkin
2 cups (pureed)
eggs
4 (beaten)
butter
3/4 cup (melted)
flour
2 cups (all-purpose)
baking powder
2 teaspoons
baking soda
1 teaspoon
cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
chopped pecans
1 cup (toasted, if desired)
powdered sugar
3 cups (sifted)
cream cheese
3 ounces (softened)
butter (for frosting)
6 tablespoons (softened)
evaporated milk
1 tablespoon
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 15x10 inch baking pan.
2
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the sugar, canned pumpkin, beaten eggs, and melted butter until well blended.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and ground cinnamon.
4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
5
Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
9
For the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, sifted powdered sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
10
Once the pumpkin bars are cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
11
Cut into 36 bars and serve. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Pumpkin Pecan Delight Bars!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy Pumpkin Pecan Delight Bars?
They are a delightful fall-themed dessert that combines warm pumpkin and spice flavors with a crunchy pecan layer and a smooth cream cheese frosting.
What size baking pan should be used?
The recipe calls for a 15x10 inch baking pan.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 325°F (163°C).
How many bars does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 36 individual bars.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use 2 cups of fresh pureed pumpkin, though the recipe specifically suggests canned pureed pumpkin for consistency.
Should the pecans be toasted?
The pecans can be toasted if desired to enhance their flavor before folding them into the batter.
How long do the bars need to bake?
Bake the bars for approximately 30 minutes.
How do I know when the pumpkin bars are done?
The bars are finished when a toothpick inserted into the center of the pan comes out clean.
How should the eggs be prepared for the batter?
The 4 eggs should be beaten before being added to the mixture.
What type of flour is recommended?
The recipe uses 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
Is the butter for the batter melted or softened?
For the batter, use 3/4 cup of melted butter.
What spices are included in the recipe?
The recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
What are the ingredients for the cream cheese frosting?
The frosting consists of softened cream cheese, softened butter, sifted powdered sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract.
Why must the powdered sugar be sifted?
Sifting the powdered sugar ensures the frosting has a smooth and creamy consistency without lumps.
How should the cream cheese be prepared for the frosting?
The 3 ounces of cream cheese should be softened to room temperature for easy blending.
When should the frosting be applied?
Wait until the pumpkin bars have cooled completely in the pan before spreading the frosting over the top.
Can I substitute the evaporated milk in the frosting?
While the recipe calls for evaporated milk, regular milk or heavy cream can typically be used as a substitute in similar frosting recipes.
How should I store these bars?
Because of the cream cheese frosting, it is best to store these bars in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the Creamy Pumpkin Pecan Delight Bars?
Yes, these bars can be frozen; ensure they are tightly wrapped or placed in an airtight container.
Are these bars suitable for holiday parties?
Yes, they are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or any festive occasion.
Can I omit the pecans for a nut-free version?
Yes, you can simply leave out the pecans if you have a nut allergy or preference.
What is the texture of these bars?
They have a moist and tender base with a bit of crunch from the pecans and a smooth topping.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Ensure you grease the 15x10 inch baking pan thoroughly before pouring in the batter.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of canned pumpkin?
It is recommended to use pure canned pumpkin (puree) rather than pie filling, as pie filling contains added sugars and spices that may alter the recipe balance.
What is the role of baking powder and baking soda?
These act as leavening agents to help the pumpkin bars rise and achieve a tender texture.
How should I combine the dry and wet ingredients?
Gradually add the whisked dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring gently until they are just combined.
What type of sugar is used in the pumpkin base?
The recipe uses 2 cups of granulated sugar.
Can I add more cinnamon or other spices?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of cinnamon or add nutmeg and cloves if you prefer a stronger spice profile.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is described as a simple recipe that is easy to follow for bakers of all skill levels.
How much vanilla extract is used?
The frosting requires 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for flavor.