Bring the cozy flavors of fall to life with these irresistibly moist and tender Spiced Pumpkin Applesauce Bars. Made with the perfect blend of pumpkin puree, unsweetened applesauce, and warm autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and spiced. The combination of granulated and brown sugar adds a rich depth of sweetness, while a dusting of powdered sugar provides a simple yet elegant finishing touch. With minimal prep time and a straightforward one-bowl method, these bars are an easy-to-make treat perfect for potlucks, coffee breaks, or dessert. Ideal for anyone seeking a healthier twist on seasonal baking, these bars are lower in fat thanks to the applesauce, while still delivering big on flavor. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for a grab-and-go snack thatβs perfect for any fall day!
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease or line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt until well combined.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out with a spatula to create a smooth layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Slice into 12 squares or bars and serve.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Calories |
2199 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 66.3 g | 85% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.4 g | 57% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 35.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 191 mg | 64% | |
| Sodium | 2561 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 389.5 g | 142% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.4 g | 55% | |
| Total Sugars | 235.3 g | ||
| Protein | 27.9 g | 56% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 194 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 13.3 mg | 74% | |
| Potassium | 926 mg | 20% | |
*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.