Pumpkin Praline Squares
Pumpkin Praline Squares are rich, spiced pumpkin bars topped with crunchy praline, perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy dessert that combines warm flavors and delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixer bowl, combine all filling ingredients.
- Beat at medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try substituting half of the brown sugar with maple syrup. If you're short on spices, a pumpkin pie spice blend can work in place of the individual spices. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. For an added crunch, consider topping with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking, similar to the topping in Peanut Butter Cornflake Drops.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful squares warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. They pair beautifully with a cup of spiced chai or coffee. For an autumn-themed dessert spread, consider offering alongside Milky Way Bundt Cake or Creamy White Fudge.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. This will help maintain the texture while enhancing the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pumpkin Praline Squares contains roughly 1420 calories, with 10g protein, 312g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 596mg per serving (26% 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. Just ensure it's well-cooked and pureed to achieve the right consistency. You'll need about 2 cups of fresh pumpkin to substitute for the 29 oz. can. Make sure to drain excess moisture for the best results.
What can I do if I don't have evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute it with an equal amount of full-fat coconut milk or a mixture of regular milk and heavy cream (3 parts milk to 1 part cream). This will maintain the creaminess required for the recipe.
How can I make these squares more festive?
To make these squares more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top before serving. You could also incorporate chocolate chips or cranberries into the batter for added flavor and texture, enhancing the autumnal feel.
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).