Maple-Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, butter, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is crumbly.

3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.

4. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup until smooth.

5. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the baked crust. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.

6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F
Serving size:
12 bars

Nutritional information:
Calories: 280
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 110mg
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 5g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
- Margarine can be used instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans.
- Honey or agave syrup can be used instead of maple syrup.

Variations:
- Add a layer of cream cheese filling on top of the crust before adding the pumpkin mixture.
- Use graham cracker crumbs instead of flour for the crust.
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream before serving.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the crust is baked before adding the pumpkin mixture to prevent a soggy bottom.
- Use room temperature ingredients for the filling to ensure a smooth and even texture.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent them from falling apart.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Garnishes:
Chopped pecans, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pairings:
Hot apple cider, coffee, or tea.

Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or green salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the filling is too runny, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until set.
- If the bars are too sweet, reduce the amount of sugar or maple syrup.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling food.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and discard after 5 days.

Food history:
Pumpkin pie has been a traditional dessert in America since the early 1800s. Maple syrup, which is made from the sap of maple trees, has been used as a sweetener in North America for centuries.

Flavor profiles:
Sweet, spicy, and nutty.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or a sweet snack.

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Region: Canadian

Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Maple, Pumpkin, Maple-Flavored, Pumpkin-Spiced