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- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - ⅓ cup brown sugar - 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree - ½ cup maple syrup - ⅓ cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon ground ginger - ¼ teaspoon salt - 1 cup chopped pecans These bars start with a buttery graham cracker crust. The crust is easy to make and adds a nice crunch. You mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. This creates a sweet and crumbly base. Next, the filling is a blend of pumpkin puree and maple syrup. This gives the bars a rich flavor. The eggs help set the filling, while the spices add warmth and depth. Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger make each bite comforting. The chopped pecans add a special crunch and nutty taste. For a lovely finish, you can add powdered sugar on top. A dollop of whipped cream makes these bars even better. A sprinkle of cinnamon also looks nice and adds flavor. These small touches make your dessert shine. First, gather your crust ingredients. You need graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. In a mixing bowl, combine these three. Stir them well until it looks like wet sand. This means your crust mix is ready. Next, take your 9x9 inch baking pan. Grease it or line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy removal later. Now, press the graham cracker mix firmly into the bottom of the pan. Make sure it’s even. Bake this crust at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. When done, take it out and let it cool slightly. Now let’s make the pumpkin filling. In a large bowl, add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, granulated sugar, and eggs. Don’t forget the vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until smooth. Next, add your spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix them in well. This gives your filling a warm flavor. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans. This adds a nice crunch to your filling. You’re almost there! Pour the pumpkin filling over your pre-baked crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your bars are ready. Let them cool completely in the pan. After that, refrigerate them for at least an hour. This helps firm them up for easy slicing. Enjoy your delicious Maple Pecan Pumpkin Pie Bars! Ensuring a Firm Filling To get a firm filling, you need to bake it just right. Check the filling after 30 minutes. It should not jiggle when you gently shake the pan. If a toothpick comes out clean, it's done. Let the bars cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling firm up even more. Achieving a Crisp Crust A crisp crust is key to great pie bars. Start with fresh graham cracker crumbs. Mix them well with melted butter and brown sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the pan. Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes to set it. This step prevents a soggy base. Garnishing Ideas To make your bars look stunning, dust them with powdered sugar. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and flavor. You can also add some chopped pecans for a nice crunch. Serving Suggestions Serve the bars on a pretty platter. Cut them into squares or rectangles for easy sharing. They make a great treat for fall gatherings or holiday meals. Pair them with warm drinks like cider or coffee for a cozy vibe. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Pie Bars by adding spices. Try including allspice or cloves for a warm kick. A pinch of cardamom can also add depth. Each spice brings its own charm, enhancing the overall taste. Feel free to mix and match. Experimenting with spices can make each batch unique. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using honey or agave syrup. Both add sweetness while keeping the flavor rich. You can also use coconut sugar for a deeper caramel note. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference. Remember to check the sweetness of your filling before baking. To make these bars vegan, swap the eggs for flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. Use coconut oil instead of butter for the crust. These swaps keep the bars tasty while fitting a vegan diet. To make these bars gluten-free, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Many brands offer these options. Ensure other ingredients, like baking powder or sugar, are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the bars without worry. Adjust baking time if needed, as gluten-free ingredients may change texture slightly. Refrigeration Tips You can store these bars in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them right after they cool. This helps them stay firm and tasty. Freezing Instructions To freeze, wrap each bar in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight. This keeps the flavors rich and fresh. Methods for Refreshing the Bars To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This warms them up and makes them taste fresh again. You can also use the microwave. Just heat them for about 15-20 seconds. Maintaining Texture If you want to keep the texture, avoid overheating. Too much heat can make them dry. Always check after a short time to find the right warmth. Enjoy your bars warm or cool; either way, they taste great! You can use crushed cookies, like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. You might also try crushed oats for a healthier option. Each choice brings a unique flavor. Experiment to find what you like best! Yes, these bars are great for making ahead. You can prepare them a day or two before your event. Just store them in the fridge until you are ready to serve. This helps the flavors meld together nicely. The filling is set when a toothpick comes out clean from the center. It should not jiggle too much when you shake the pan. This usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes of baking. - Additional Common Questions and Answers - Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, but make sure to cook and puree it first. - What if I don't have pecans? You can use walnuts or leave them out entirely. - Can I add chocolate chips? Yes, chocolate chips add a fun twist to the bars! You now have all the tools to make delicious pumpkin bars. Remember the key points: pick fresh ingredients, prep the crust well, and bake it right. Use the tips to get perfect texture and great taste. You can play with flavors and make it your own with swaps. Storing and reheating keep your bars fresh, so follow those tips too. Enjoy your baking journey and share these treats with friends and family. Happy baking!

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Pie Bars

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Maple Pecan Pumpkin Pie Bars, a perfect fall treat! With a graham cracker crust and a creamy pumpkin filling, these bars are sure to impress at any gathering. Follow our easy step-by-step recipe to create a deliciously spiced dessert topped with crunchy pecans. Don’t miss out on this seasonal favorite—click to explore the full recipe and bring a touch of autumn to your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

⅓ cup brown sugar

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

½ cup maple syrup

⅓ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

    In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

      Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

        In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined and smooth.

          Fold in the chopped pecans into the pumpkin mixture until evenly distributed.

            Pour the pumpkin filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly.

              Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the pumpkin filling is set (a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean).

                Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least an hour to help firm up for easier slicing.

                  Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, slice into squares or rectangles, and serve.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: Dust the top of the pumpkin pie bars with powdered sugar and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving. Arrange bars on a decorative platter for a festive touch!