Pumpkin Nut Squares
Pumpkin Nut Squares combine the warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves with the rich flavor of pumpkin, creating a moist, spiced dessert perfect for fall gatherings. Topped with crunchy nuts and a buttery cake layer, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, ideal for cozy occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the eggs, pumpkin, sugar, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl until well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix layer.
- Top with chopped nuts.
- Bake for 1 hour and 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool and serve cold, optionally with whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pumpkin mixture. If you want a healthier twist, substitute half of the sugar with apple sauce or use a sugar alternative like stevia. You can also swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version to cater to dietary needs. Remember, the nuts can be any variety you prefer, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
These pumpkin nut squares are delightful as is, but you can enhance their presentation by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. They also pair beautifully with Butter Glazed Carrots for a festive meal. Enjoy them as a sweet ending to a cozy fall dinner or as a treat for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm individual squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through. This dessert can also be enjoyed cold, making it perfect for a make-ahead treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pumpkin Nut Squares contains roughly 527 calories, with 7g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1597mg per serving (69% 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?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. To make your own, roast a small pumpkin until tender, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth. You'll need about 4 cups of fresh puree, which will provide a fresh flavor to your squares.
What can I substitute for the nuts?
If you have nut allergies or want to make it nut-free, you can omit the nuts entirely or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch. Dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, can also be added for sweetness.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The pumpkin nut squares are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep in mind that the edges may brown slightly, but the center should remain moist. If you find the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the pan with aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.
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).