Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Bars Reduced Sugar, a guilt-free treat perfect for any occasion. Made with nutrient-packed pumpkin puree and naturally sweetened with unsweetened applesauce, these bars feature a harmonious blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for an irresistible autumnal aroma. This recipe balances all-purpose and whole wheat flour to add a hearty texture, while reducing sugar without sacrificing taste, thanks to a smart combination of granulated and brown sugars. Ready in under 40 minutes, these soft and moist bars are simple to prepare and can be enjoyed plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Perfect for dessert, snacks, or sharing at your next gathering, these reduced-sugar pumpkin bars deliver wholesome goodness with every bite.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing into 12 even bars.
Serve and enjoy your reduced-sugar pumpkin bars!
Calories |
1471 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 19.6 g | 25% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.4 g | 27% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 377 mg | 126% | |
| Sodium | 1865 mg | 81% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 298.6 g | 109% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.3 g | 72% | |
| Total Sugars | 143.1 g | ||
| Protein | 35.5 g | 71% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.0 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 239 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 14.1 mg | 78% | |
| Potassium | 1193 mg | 25% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.