Indulge your taste buds with a delightful twist on traditional desserts! These Pumpkin and Maple Labneh Swirl Bars are not just a treat; they’re an experience that combines the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with the comforting essence of fall. Imagine creamy labneh swirling harmoniously with spiced pumpkin puree and sweet maple syrup, all baked to perfection in just under an hour. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup labneh
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until they are well blended.
- In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- In a separate bowl, take the labneh and whisk it until smooth and creamy. This will help it swirl more easily into the batter.
- Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Drop spoonfuls of the labneh over the pumpkin batter, then dollop the remaining pumpkin batter on top. Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the labneh and pumpkin batter together, creating a marbled effect.
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin and Maple Labneh Swirl Bars!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for pure maple syrup and fresh pumpkin puree. If using canned pumpkin, ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin without additives.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the light, fluffy texture you want.
- Swirling Technique: For a beautiful marbled effect, use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the labneh into the pumpkin batter. Don’t overdo it; you want to see distinct swirls!
- Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking your bars a few minutes before the 30-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed cold or warmed slightly in the microwave for a cozy treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 246kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
