Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
If you’re looking to make these gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. I often recall my grandmother’s gentle reminder to mix wet and dry ingredients separately to ensure even distribution.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars dense.
- Fold in the chopped pecans, reserving a small handful for topping. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The house will fill with the irresistible scent of pumpkin and spice, bringing back memories of family gatherings.
- While the bars are baking, warm the caramel sauce slightly if needed, so it’s easy to drizzle.
- Once the bars are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 15 minutes. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle the reserved pecans for an added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International