Get ready to experience a dessert that's about to become your new autumn obsession! These Pumpkin Caramel Layer Bars are not just another seasonal treat – they're a decadent symphony of flavors that will transport you to a cozy autumn afternoon. Imagine the rich, warm spices of pumpkin perfectly complemented by gooey caramel swirls, creating a dessert so irresistible that you'll want to make them again and again. Whether you're hosting a fall gathering or simply treating yourself to something special, these bars are guaranteed to become an instant favorite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, mix together flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the first layer of batter, creating a swirled pattern using a knife.
- Pour the remaining pumpkin batter on top, carefully spreading it to cover the caramel layer.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top layer and use a knife to create decorative swirls.
- If using, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour before cutting into bars.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 equal squares and serve. Optional: Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter and more even baking.
- Don't Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the bars tender and light.
- Caramel Swirl Technique: For beautiful caramel swirls, use a knife to create gentle figure-eight patterns when drizzling the caramel sauce.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test – it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs when the bars are perfectly baked.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat squares and let the flavors fully develop.
- Optional Crunch: The pecans add a delightful texture, but feel free to omit or substitute with other nuts like walnuts if desired.
- Storage Tip: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
