Imagine biting into a slice of pure morning bliss - where the warmth of pumpkin meets the sweetness of carrots, and every crumb tells a delicious story of comfort and indulgence! These Morning Glory Pumpkin Carrot Cake Bars are not just a recipe; they're a morning transformation waiting to happen. Perfect for those who crave a breakfast that's both nutritious and decadent, these bars will turn your ordinary morning into an extraordinary culinary experience that'll have you jumping out of bed with excitement!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the bars later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of grated carrots, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Use a whisk or spatula to mix these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This will help to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout the batter.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser bars.
- Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top to ensure even baking.
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut the bars into 12 equal squares. Serve as a delightful breakfast treat or a snack throughout the day.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Tips
- For the moistest bars, make sure not to overmix the batter. Gently fold ingredients until just combined to keep the texture light and tender.
- Use fresh, high-quality spices like cinnamon to enhance the overall flavor profile. If possible, toast your walnuts briefly before adding them to intensify their nutty taste.
- Check your bars a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to catch them at the perfect moment of doneness - when a toothpick comes out clean but the bars are still moist.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices. A sharp knife dipped in hot water can help create perfect edges.
- For added nutrition and texture, consider adding a sprinkle of rolled oats or chia seeds to the batter for an extra boost of fiber and crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
