When you think of fall flavors, nothing quite compares to the delightful combination of pumpkin and pecans. Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars bring together these classic tastes in a format that’s easy to love and even easier to devour. easy pumpkin pancakes Imagine biting into a luscious, spiced pumpkin filling atop a buttery pecan crust, the aroma wafting through your kitchen like an invitation to autumn itself.
Now picture this: it’s Thanksgiving, and you’re surrounded by family. As you cut into these bars, everyone leans in, eyes wide with anticipation. You take a bite, and suddenly you’re on a flavor rollercoaster—warm spices dance on your tongue while the crunch of pecans adds that perfect textural contrast. Every bite is a celebration, whether it’s at the holiday table or just because it’s Tuesday.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars are incredibly easy to prepare and make for fantastic leftovers
- Their rich flavors are perfect for cozy gatherings or simple evenings at home
- The beautiful golden hue and crunchy topping add visual appeal that will impress any guest
- Ideal for both holiday feasts and casual get-togethers, these bars are sure to be the star of any dessert table
My friends still talk about the time I brought these bars to a potluck. One friend declared them “life-changing,” while another asked if they could swim in the pumpkin filling. Talk about high praise!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use for the crust; it gives the bars their structure and should be measured accurately for best results.
- Granulated Sugar: A must-have for sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference if you want it less sweet.
- Pumpkin Puree: Canned is perfect; make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin without additives for optimal flavor. pumpkin creme brulee.
- Pecans: Chop them finely; they add crunch and nuttiness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger): These are essential for that warm autumn flavor profile that everyone loves.
For the Topping:
- Brown Sugar: Adds richness; using dark brown sugar enhances the caramel notes in these bars.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness; it brings everything together with creaminess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This little step will save you from wrestling with sticky bars.
Create the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish—your future self will thank you when it’s time to eat.
Bake the Crust: Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. It should smell heavenly by now—trust me on this one!
Prepare Pumpkin Filling: While waiting for the crust to cool slightly, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, spices, and vanilla extract in another bowl until smooth and creamy. This part might just become your new favorite fall ritual.
Add Filling to Crust: Carefully pour this luscious filling over your pre-baked crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula so every bite has that wonderful flavor combo.
Create Pecan Topping: In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans with brown sugar and melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this topping generously over your pumpkin layer—the more pecans, the merrier!
Bake Again!: Pop everything back into the oven for another 25-30 minutes until it looks set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this means it’s perfectly gooey inside.
Let those heavenly Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars cool completely before you slice them up. Serve them plain or with whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy—you deserve it! For more inspiration, check out this Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Enjoy every last crumb of this delicious dessert that captures all the warmth of fall in one delightful bite!
You Must Know
- These Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars combine the richness of pumpkin with crunchy pecans
- Their delightful aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone wonder what you’re baking
- They are perfect for fall gatherings or any sweet craving
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the crust first, followed by mixing the filling so everything bakes evenly and efficiently.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or add chocolate chips for a twist. pumpkin chocolate chip hummus A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can amp up that cozy flavor. candied walnuts for topping.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect bars, ensure your butter is softened but not melted
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for better flavor, and avoid overmixing to keep them light and fluffy
- These little tricks make all the difference in texture and taste!
Creating these bars reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would dive into dessert first. Nothing beats seeing smiles as they savor each bite, especially from my cousin who claims she “doesn’t like pumpkin.”
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pumpkin works perfectly; just make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for a delicious alternative.
What’s the best way to serve these bars?
Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
These Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on classic fall flavors, bringing together creamy pumpkin filling and crunchy pecans atop a buttery crust. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or everyday treats, these bars offer a cozy taste of autumn that’s sure to impress. With their rich aroma and beautiful presentation, they’ll be the highlight of any dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (dark preferred)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- For the crust, mix flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt until crumbly. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Bake the crust for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, remaining sugar, spices, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin filling over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
- Combine chopped pecans with brown sugar and melted butter in a bowl. Sprinkle this topping over the pumpkin layer.
- Bake for another 25-30 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
