There's something utterly delightful about the first bite of these Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars that transports me right to the heart of autumn. As the scent of warm spices fills my kitchen, I can’t help but think of cozy gatherings and sweet moments shared over a richly flavored dessert. This recipe blends the classic essence of pumpkin pie with a twist that’s both portable and easy to make, perfect for those of us who are tired of the same old desserts.
With a buttery oat base that gives way to a creamy maple pumpkin filling, these bars are topped with a crunchy pecan streusel that adds just the right amount of texture. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treat yourself after a long day, these naturally sweetened bars offer a satisfying solution. Best enjoyed chilled with a dollop of maple whipped cream and a steaming cup of coffee, they are a celebration of comfort and flavor that captures the spirit of the season.
Why are Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars irresistible?
Comforting flavor: These bars meld the rich essence of pumpkin pie with a buttery oat base, delivering an unforgettable taste.
Quick to prepare: Made in just a few steps, they're perfect for busy bakers craving a sweet treat without the fuss.
Versatile options: Easily customize them with gluten-free alternatives or add chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist.
Crowd pleaser: Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights, they bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
Chilled delight: Best served cold, pair them with maple whipped cream for that extra touch of autumn comfort!
Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• Spelt Flour – Provides structure to the base; try all-purpose flour for a standard option.
• Rolled Oats – Adds chewiness and a hearty oat flavor; ensure they are certified gluten-free if needed.
• Coconut Sugar – Naturally sweetens the bars; feel free to substitute with brown sugar.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances flavor with its warm aroma; perfect for that autumn spice.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
• Cold Butter – Creates a flaky crust when mixed with dry ingredients; keep it cold for the best texture.
For the Filling
• Large Eggs – Acts as a binder for the creamy filling; crucial for that lovely custard-like texture.
• Pureed Pumpkin – The star of these Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars; use canned or homemade for freshness.
• Pure Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that infuses the filling with rich flavor.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – For an extra festive flavor blend; it complements the pumpkin perfectly.
For the Topping
• Crushed Pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and richness; walnuts make a great substitute if you prefer.
• Coconut Sugar/Brown Sugar (for topping) – Provides sweetness and a caramel-like finish.
Enjoy crafting this delightful recipe that captures the essence of fall!
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the spelt flour, rolled oats, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir these together until well blended, creating a fragrant mixture that fills your kitchen with warmth.
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Cut in Butter: Take the cold butter and cut it into the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles small peas, which will create that deliciously flaky crust.
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Whisk Filling: In another bowl, whisk the large eggs until frothy. Then, add the pureed pumpkin, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy; it should look inviting and rich!
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Create the Crust: Press half of the streusel mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will be the base that holds everything together.
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Layer the Pumpkin Mixture: Carefully pour the pumpkin mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly. This will be the heart of your Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars!
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Add Topping: Crumble the remaining streusel on top of the pumpkin layer. Then, sprinkle crushed pecans and a little coconut sugar or brown sugar for a caramel-like finish.
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Bake: Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The custard should be set and the top golden brown when it's ready.
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Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour to enhance their flavor and texture before cutting into squares.
Optional: Serve chilled with a dollop of maple whipped cream for that extra special touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the oat crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crust and press it into your baking dish, then store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge. For the filling, mix the pumpkin, eggs, and maple syrup, then refrigerate it separately. When you're ready to bake, just pour the chilled filling over the crust, top with streusel and pecans, and bake. This approach ensures that your bars stay just as delicious and fresh despite being prepped ahead, making weeknight desserts a breeze!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars?
There's nothing quite like creating a cozy, autumn-inspired meal to accompany these delightful treats.
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Maple Whipped Cream: A velvety dollop of this luscious cream elevates the bars, enhancing their sweet maple flavors and adding a light, airy touch.
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Hot Coffee: The warmth of a freshly brewed cup complements the spiced notes of the bars, making each bite and sip a comforting experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside these bars creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, making for an indulgent dessert.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Sipping this warm drink brings a festive flair that resonates beautifully with the fall flavors of the pumpkin bars.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavors provide a savory balance to the sweet richness of the bars, making for a well-rounded meal.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses can serve as a great contrast to the sweetness and spice, creating a satisfying end to your meal.
Embrace the season with these delightful pairings—each one thoughtfully chosen to accentuate the comforting charm of your Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars!
Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars Variations
Dive into creative possibilities to personalize your delightful bars and make them even more appealing!
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Gluten-Free: Swap spelt flour for a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
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Chocolate Lovers: Toss in dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips into the filling for a rich, sweet variation that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
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Nut-Free: Replace the crushed pecans with pumpkin seeds for a delicious crunch that’s safe for nut-free diets.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pumpkin filling for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Fruitful Addition: Mix in raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for a delightful chewy surprise in every bite.
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Dust the top with a mix of cinnamon and coconut sugar before baking for a sweet, caramelized finish.
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Maple Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a bit of homemade or store-bought maple caramel sauce over the bars before serving for that extra indulgent touch.
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Vegetable Boost: Incorporate shredded carrots or zucchini into the filling mixture for added moisture and a nutritional boost that blends seamlessly.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars
Fridge: Store your Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the fridge overnight for the best texture. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy chilled with a dollop of maple whipped cream or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars
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Parchment Paper: Use parchment paper to line your baking dish; it makes for easy bar removal and cleanup, helping preserve the beautiful edges.
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Pumpkin Puree Only: Always opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling; the latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the recipe.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars while baking. If they start browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.
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Chill for Texture: Let the Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars chill completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and enhances the flavor profile.
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Nut Choices: Experiment with nuts! If you prefer a different flavor, substitute the crushed pecans with walnuts for a slightly different crunch.
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Storing Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for easy treats later.
Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin for my Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars?
Absolutely! For the best results, select a pumpkin that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth skin free of blemishes and dark spots. If using canned pumpkin, ensure it's 100% pure pumpkin puree. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can interfere with your recipe's flavor.
How should I store my Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars?
Very simple! Store your bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the bars to cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. For the best quality, enjoy them within 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat briefly in the microwave if desired.
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If your Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars crumble too easily, it might be due to not enough binder (eggs) or not pressing the crust firmly enough. Be sure to press the crust mixture down firmly into the baking dish before adding the pumpkin filling. If they’re still too crumbly after baking, try baking slightly longer next time, as they may need a bit more time to set.
Are these bars suitable for those with nut allergies?
While the recipe calls for crushed pecans, you can easily make a nut-free version! Substitute the pecans with seeds like sunflower seeds or omit the topping altogether. Just make sure to use gluten-free oats and flour if concerned about cross-contamination for those with gluten sensitivities as well.
Can I tweak the ingredients to make my Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars gluten-free?
Certainly! To make a gluten-free version of these Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars, substitute the spelt flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Also, ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free to avoid any potential cross-contamination. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Irresistibly Indulgent Pumpkin Pie Pecan Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the spelt flour, rolled oats, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles small peas.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy, then add pumpkin, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Press half of the streusel mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Crumble the remaining streusel on top and sprinkle with crushed pecans and coconut sugar.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden.
- Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least an hour before cutting.
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