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Irresistible Autumn Pumpkin Squares
I've gotta tell you about my go-to fall dessert. These Pumpkin Squares turn out amazing every time with their wonderful mix of autumn spices and that creamy spiced cheese topping. They're super simple to bring to gatherings and everyone always wants to know how to make them.
What Makes These Squares Special
Trust me, these aren't ordinary pumpkin treats. They've got this fantastic consistency that's wonderfully tender yet firm enough to grab with your fingers. The combo of brown sugar with those spices is absolutely divine, and once that cheese topping goes on, it's truly something magical.
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- Main Structure: All-purpose flour creates the ideal foundation.
- Lift Agents: Combined baking soda and powder do the trick.
- Warming Spices: Pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon bring that autumn vibe.
- Softness Secret: Veggie oil guarantees they stay tender.
- Main Attraction: A full tin of pumpkin puree.
- Sweeteners: White and brown sugar plus some maple syrup.
- For Texture: Fresh eggs really improve everything.
- Flavor Boost: Vanilla extract adds complexity.
- Finishing Touch: That wonderful spiced cheese topping.
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Cooking Instructions
- First Things First
- Combine your dry stuff to have it ready to go.
- Mix It Up
- In a separate bowl blend your eggs oil sugars pumpkin maple syrup and vanilla until it's nice and smooth.
- Put It All Together
- Mix everything just enough pour into your pan and cook at 350°F for around 30 minutes.
- Last Step
- Wait till they're totally cool then spread that tasty frosting make them look nice.
Add Your Personal Touch
I sometimes just sprinkle powdered sugar on top but that spiced cheese frosting really takes them up a notch. Try adding colorful sprinkles cute pumpkin toppers or a little caramel drizzle to make them look extra festive.
Storage Tips
Store them in your fridge and they'll stay tasty for about 4 days. Just let them sit out a bit before you eat them. Want to save them longer? They can stay in the freezer up to 3 months if you wrap them well and let them thaw overnight when you're ready to enjoy.
The Success Secret
These squares are the perfect middle ground between cake and cookie bars. They're soft but still easy to pick up with your fingers and that spiced cheese topping pairs so well with the pumpkin flavor. They're perfect for any autumn get-together or when you just need something cozy.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Why use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?
Store-bought canned pumpkin (like Libby's) gives you consistent quality and flavor, while homemade often has too much moisture.
- → Is there a way to use less oil?
Swap out half the oil for unsweetened applesauce. You’ll still get moist bars with fewer calories.
- → What’s the point of chilling before slicing?
Cooling down firms up the frosting and makes it easier to slice clean squares without a mess.
- → How early can these be prepped?
You can make them two days in advance without frosting, or freeze them for up to three months. Frosted ones can be frozen too.
- → Got a tip for homemade pumpkin pie spice?
Mix your own by combining ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice in even amounts as needed.