Imagine sinking your teeth into a dessert that captures the essence of fall in every single bite - crispy, buttery graham cracker crust, velvety smooth pumpkin filling, and a crunchy pecan topping that will make your taste buds dance with joy! These Pumpkin Pecan Crunch Bars are not just a recipe; they're a seasonal celebration that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, ensuring complete coverage.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans uniformly across the top of the pumpkin layer, creating a crunchy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly firm but still has a slight jiggle.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 16 even squares.
- For best flavor and texture, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the pumpkin flavor.
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a solid base for your bars.
- For extra richness, toast the pecans lightly before sprinkling them on top.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat squares.
- Refrigerating the bars helps them set and intensifies their flavor profile.
- For a gourmet touch, drizzle with caramel or add a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
- These bars are perfect for make-ahead desserts and actually taste even better the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 55mg
