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As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting dessert to embrace the essence of fall. Gooey Butter Pecan Pumpkin Bars are the perfect treat to celebrate the season, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin with the delightful crunch of pecans. These bars not only provide a creamy, gooey texture but also deliver an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Gooey Butter Pecan Pumpkin Bars

Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with these Gooey Butter Pecan Pumpkin Bars! This comforting dessert combines creamy pumpkin, warm spices, and crunchy pecans, making it a perfect choice for your Thanksgiving feast or a festive gathering. With an easy prep and a gooey texture that melts in your mouth, you'll want to make these bars a seasonal staple. Try it tonight, and don't forget to save this recipe for those busy nights ahead!
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the filling:

1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin puree

1 cup powdered sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chopped pecans, plus more for garnish

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the topping:

1/2 cup additional chopped pecans (for garnish)

Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium-sized mixing bowl, blend together the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Firmly press this crumbly dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish, ensuring it creates a solid base.

    Bake the crust: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

      Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Beat the mixture with a whisk or electric mixer until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.

        Add the cream cheese: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of flour until smooth and lump-free. Gradually add this cream cheese mixture to the pumpkin filling, mixing until it is fully combined and silky.

          Fold in pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.

            Combine and bake: Pour the prepared pumpkin filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly soft. The bars will puff up during baking but will settle as they cool.

              Cool and serve: Once finished baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. After cooling, refrigerate for about 2 hours to firm up the bars before cutting them into squares. Serve them warm or chilled, garnished with additional chopped pecans and dollops of whipped cream if desired.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                  Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, stack the bars on a decorative platter and sprinkle them with additional chopped pecans. Serve with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the indulgence.