Pumpkin Ginger Squares
Pumpkin Ginger Squares offer a luscious combination of spiced pumpkin filling atop a crumbly oat crust, perfect for autumn gatherings and dessert lovers seeking warm, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the flour, quick rolled oats, brown sugar, and butter; mix until crumbly using an electric mixer at low speed.
- Press the crumb mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, beat together canned pumpkin, evaporated milk, eggs, salt, sugar, ginger, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Mix the chopped nuts with the remaining sugar, ginger, and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the baked pumpkin filling.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is golden and the filling is firm.
- Allow to cool in the pan before serving.
- Serve with whipped cream if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using whole wheat flour instead of regular flour. If you don't have quick rolled oats, regular oats can be blended into smaller pieces. To enhance the spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or clove. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These Pumpkin Ginger Squares are delightful when served warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top. They pair beautifully with a cup of spiced chai or coffee for an afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling with caramel sauce, making them a perfect dessert for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain the texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pumpkin Ginger Squares contains roughly 510 calories, with 8g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. You'll need about 2 to 2.5 cups of fresh pumpkin to substitute for the 2 cups of canned pumpkin. Be sure to remove excess moisture to avoid a soggy filling.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that other ingredients, like oats, are certified gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the Pumpkin Ginger Squares while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
How can I make these squares more festive for the holidays?
To add a festive touch, consider mixing in dried cranberries or raisins into the pumpkin filling. You could also top the squares with a cream cheese frosting or a sprinkle of chopped pecans. This can elevate your squares, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).