Pumpkin Bars with Creamy Frosting and Pecans

Why Make This Recipe

Pumpkin bars are a delicious and comforting treat that many people enjoy, especially during the fall season. They are moist, sweet, and packed with warm spices that remind us of fall festivals and family gatherings. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for sharing at parties or bringing to potlucks.

How to Make Pumpkin Bars

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 can pumpkin puree (15 ounce)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, divided)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 24 pecan halves

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth.
2. Add the remaining ingredients for the pumpkin bars and mix for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
3. Pour the batter into a lightly greased 15x10x1 inch baking sheet.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely before frosting.

For the frosting:

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of butter, and milk. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool completely.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened butter with powdered sugar.
4. Pour in the cooled brown sugar mixture and beat for 3-4 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. Fold in the chopped pecans.
5. Spread the frosting over the cooled pumpkin bars and gently press the pecan halves into the top.
6. Cut the bars and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze until ready to use.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bars

Serve pumpkin bars as a delightful dessert after a meal or as a sweet snack during the day. They can also be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. For an extra touch, you can dust them with powdered sugar before serving or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

How to Store Pumpkin Bars

Store pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Bars

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Don’t skip the frosting; it adds a delicious sweetness that complements the pumpkin flavor.
• You can replace the pecans with walnuts or leave them out if you’re allergic.

Variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding some chocolate chips to the batter before baking. This will give your pumpkin bars a delightful chocolate flavor that pairs well with the spices.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
   Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before measuring it out.

2. How can I make these pumpkin bars gluten-free?
   You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the blend you use for the correct ratio.

3. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the frosting a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick mix before spreading it on the bars.