Decadent Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars Best Fall Treats

As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on that crisp autumn chill, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of freshly baked treats to inspire cozy gatherings. The Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars are the perfect addition to your fall festivities. Imagine serving these unique treats at Thanksgiving, an afternoon tea party, or even just as a delicious snack while curled up with a good book.

These bars were inspired by a tradition of baking in my family, where pumpkin was always the star of our holiday desserts. The combination of soft pumpkin-infused cake with a sweet, crunchy praline topping is a showstopper that pays homage to my grandmother’s recipes, passed down through the generations. What makes these bars special is not just their delectable flavor but also their simplicity, making them accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore these Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars! First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them the perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The recipe comes together in one bowl, and the ingredient list is simple yet packed with flavor.

The stars of this recipe are undoubtedly the pumpkin and praline. The pumpkin provides a lovely moisture and earthiness, while the praline adds that irresistible crunch and sweetness, creating a delightful contrast in texture. Each bite is a little piece of heaven that captures the essence of fall, and the aroma wafting from the oven will surely have everyone eagerly waiting to taste.

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

When you take that first bite of these Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars, prepare for a symphony of flavors. The soft, moist pumpkin base is subtly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, evoking the warm comforts of autumn. The sweetness of the pumpkin is beautifully balanced by the rich, buttery caramel notes of the praline topping. This topping features a delightful crunch that adds a satisfying texture, making every bite an experience to savor. It’s a perfect blend of soft and crunchy, sweet and spiced, leaving you craving more with each bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delicious bars, gathering the right ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: This is the heart of the bars, providing moisture, flavor, and a lovely orange hue.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars, creating a balance with the spices.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing overall sweetness.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bars moist and tender.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together while adding richness.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bars that gives structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise, creating a light texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder to ensure a fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors, balancing sweetness.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: The star of the praline topping, adding crunch and nuttiness.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: Contributes texture and a slight sweetness in the topping.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar for praline topping: Sweetens and creates the caramel-like texture of the topping.

Optional Additions

If you want to personalize your bars, consider these optional additions:

• Chocolate chips: Stir in a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich twist.
• Dried cranberries or raisins: Add a touch of tartness and chewiness with a handful of dried fruit.
• Spices: For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice.

Special Garnishes

Finally, don’t forget the finishing touches! Here are some suggestions for garnishes that will elevate your bar presentation:

• Whipped cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess and a touch of elegance.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel over the bars for added sweetness and visual appeal.
• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top for a crunchy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars:

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Mix together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Add pecans and coconut: Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Spread in pan: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Prepare the praline topping: In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
8. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Once done, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles, serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Recipe Variations

Feeling creative? Here are some delicious variations you can try:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends.
• Vegan: Replace eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), and use a plant-based oil and milk alternative.
• Spicy Maple Version: Add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the batter along with a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy flavor!

Serving and Storage Tips

These Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars are best served fresh, but they store wonderfully, making them perfect for meal prep. Here are some tips to keep them at their best:

• Serving: Serve as a delightful dessert after dinner, or enjoy as a sweet snack with your morning coffee.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Helpful Tips

Here are some extra tips for ensuring your Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars turn out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients, particularly the spices, for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bars tender and soft.
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bars a few minutes before the stated baking time.
• Let them cool: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps them hold their shape better.

Special Equipment

While you can make these bars with basic kitchen tools, having a few items will make the process smoother:

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Essential for baking the bars evenly.
• Parchment paper: Makes for easy removal and cleanup.
• Mixing bowls: A couple of different sizes for mixing the wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps ensure a smooth batter without clumps.
• Spatula: Perfect for spreading the batter evenly in the pan and folding in the nuts and coconut.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you have access to fresh pumpkin, you can roast and puree it to use in place of canned pumpkin puree. Just be sure to measure it correctly to maintain the right moisture level in your bars.

What can I substitute for pecans?

If you don’t have pecans on hand, walnuts would be a great substitute. Almonds or even sunflower seeds can work if you are looking for a nut-free option.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars store well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them covered at room temperature, and they will taste delicious when you’re ready to serve them.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry bars.

Conclusion

The Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars are not just a recipe; they are an experience waiting to bring warmth to your home and table. These bars encapsulate the flavor of fall, inviting friends and family to gather around and share in the joy of delicious treats. With their easy preparation, fantastic taste, and a crunch that complements the softness of the pumpkin, they will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire.

As you venture into your kitchen to create these delightful bars, I encourage you to share your experiences or any variations you try in the comments. Together, we can celebrate this wonderful recipe that transforms simple ingredients into joyful moments with loved ones. Happy baking!

Decadent Soft Pumpkin Praline Bars Best Fall Treats

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in these decadent soft pumpkin praline bars the best fall treats for cozy gatherings Perfectly sweet rich and irresistibly delicious

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup chopped pecans

1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1/2 cup brown sugar for praline topping

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once done, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cut into squares or rectangles, serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 calories
• Sugar: 20 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 4 grams