Indulgent Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars: A Decadent Treat

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the passionate creator and food lover behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds: Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars. As a wife, mom, and devoted cook, I find joy in crafting delicious recipes that bring family and friends together. These dessert bars are not only indulgent but also embody the cozy flavors of fall.

Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup of brewed coffee (cooled)
• 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Timing

Making these Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars is a breeze! Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling time: 20 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the fun part! Follow these easy steps to whip up your own Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking pan is essential to prevent sticking. I recommend using an 8×8-inch square pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This step ensures that everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the melted butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, and brewed coffee. Stir until well blended. You’ll love the aroma of these ingredients coming together!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are perfectly fine. If you’re feeling indulgent, fold in the chocolate chips at this stage.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these delightful Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars contains approximately:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 2g

These bars are a treat, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten up your dessert bars? Here are some fantastic alternatives:

• Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
• Replace butter with coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option.
• Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

These Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks can make mistakes! Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bars. Mix just until combined!
• Not allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting can result in a messy presentation.
• Using hot coffee can change the texture of the batter. Make sure it’s cooled first.

Storage Tips

To keep your Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars fresh:

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap each bar individually and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and absolutely delicious! Whether you’re baking for family or hosting friends, these bars will surely impress everyone at the table.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and you’re good to go!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin properly before using it in the recipe.

How can I make these bars dairy-free?

Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter, to make them dairy-free.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me in the kitchen today! I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Spice Latte Dessert Bars as much as my family and I do. Remember, cooking is about having fun and creating memories. Happy baking!

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