There’s something truly magical about baking fall treats that just warms the heart! The crisp air, the vibrant leaves, and the cozy smells wafting from your kitchen all remind me why I love this season so much. I can just picture it now: the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the room as these delightful pumpkin squares bake in the oven. Trust me, there’s no better way to embrace autumn than with a simple recipe that brings all the flavors of the season right to your home. Whether I’m sharing these treats with friends at a gathering or sneaking a warm square for myself with a cup of tea, they never fail to bring smiles all around. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them the perfect choice for bakers of any skill level. So, let’s dive in and create some delicious fall treats that you’ll want to enjoy time and again!
Ingredients List
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to create these scrumptious fall treats. Gather these simple items, and you’ll be well on your way to baking something special!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – this is your base that brings everything together.
- 1 cup sugar – just the right amount of sweetness!
- 1/2 cup butter, softened – trust me, this makes a huge difference in creaminess.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree – the star of the show! It adds flavor and moisture.
- 2 large eggs – they help bind everything and give your treats a lovely texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for that warm, comforting aroma.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – to give those treats a little lift.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps with rising and creates that perfect crumb.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – because what’s fall without a sprinkle of cinnamon?
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg – it adds a cozy warmth to your treats.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – to balance all those sweet flavors!
Having everything ready before you start will make the process smooth and enjoyable, so let’s get to it!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get down to the fun part – making these delicious fall treats! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, spiced delight ready in no time. Trust me, the process is just as enjoyable as the end result!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you dive into mixing. This step is super important because it ensures even baking from the moment you pop those treats in. While you’re preparing your batter, the oven will be warming up, so you’re all set to bake when the time comes!
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure to mix them well to avoid clumping. I like to use a whisk for this because it helps aerate the flour and ensures everything’s nicely combined. Just a quick tip: if you see any lumps in your flour, break them up with your fingers before adding the other ingredients!
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy. This is where the magic starts! You want it to be light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes of mixing. Next, add in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s well combined – you should have a lovely, smooth mixture!
Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I usually add it in three parts, mixing gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix – just stir until everything is combined. You want to keep that fluffy texture, so don’t worry if there are a few flour streaks left. That’s perfectly fine!
Baking the Treats
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. You’ll bake these beauties for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go. If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven!
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, let your treats cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to cut. After they’ve cooled completely, slice them into squares. They’re fantastic enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and they make a lovely treat for sharing with friends and family!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get down to the fun part – making these delicious fall treats! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, spiced delight ready in no time. Trust me, the process is just as enjoyable as the end result!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you dive into mixing. This step is super important because it ensures even baking from the moment you pop those treats in. While you’re preparing your batter, the oven will be warming up, so you’re all set to bake when the time comes!
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure to mix them well to avoid clumping. I like to use a whisk for this because it helps aerate the flour and ensures everything’s nicely combined. Just a quick tip: if you see any lumps in your flour, break them up with your fingers before adding the other ingredients!
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy. This is where the magic starts! You want it to be light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes of mixing. Next, add in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s well combined – you should have a lovely, smooth mixture!
Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I usually add it in three parts, mixing gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix – just stir until everything is combined. You want to keep that fluffy texture, so don’t worry if there are a few flour streaks left. That’s perfectly fine!
Baking the Treats
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. You’ll bake these beauties for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go. If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven!
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, let your treats cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to cut. After they’ve cooled completely, slice them into squares. They’re fantastic enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and they make a lovely treat for sharing with friends and family!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip these fall treats up in just 15 minutes of prep time, making them perfect for a last-minute dessert!
- Seasonal Flavors: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg truly captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
- Easy Baking: This recipe is beginner-friendly, so even if you’re new to baking, you’ll feel like a pro!
- Versatile Treat: These squares are deliciously warm right out of the oven, or you can enjoy them at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, there’s plenty to go around for family gatherings or cozy get-togethers with friends!
Tips for Success
To ensure your fall treats turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, make sure your butter is softened – this step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture when mixing. If you forgot to take it out of the fridge, just pop it in the microwave for about 10 seconds on low power. Next, keep an eye on your baking time; every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a couple of minutes early. Remember, a toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs – it’s better to underbake slightly than to overdo it!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in these delightful fall treats? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one square:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy your treats while knowing you’re savoring the flavors of fall!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about making these delightful fall treats:
Can I substitute the pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can swap it with applesauce for a different flavor, but keep in mind it will change the taste and texture a bit.
What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?
No worries! You can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just remember that the texture may vary slightly.
How should I store the leftovers?
To keep your treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge for about a week!
Can I freeze these treats?
Definitely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for about three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your delicious fall treats fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will help maintain their lovely texture and flavor. If you want to enjoy them for a bit longer, just pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for about a week.
When it’s time to enjoy a square again, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until they’re warm and cozy. Alternatively, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy those warm, spiced flavors once more!
For more information on the health benefits of pumpkin, check out this Healthline article.
Print
Fall Treats: 5 Steps to Bake Your Cozy Pumpkin Squares
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delightful recipe for fall treats that brings the flavors of the season to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla to the butter mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir until combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool, then cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience.
- Check the treats with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: fall treats, pumpkin dessert, easy baking
