These Pumpkin Praline Bars Are Our New Favorite Way to Use a Can of Pumpkin Puree

Bring pumpkin to the table in these easy to make and eat bars topped with a decadent frosting inspired by the flavors of pralines — a classic Southern confection. Topped with decadent brown sugar frosting, these cakelike bars are loaded with fall flavor — earthy and sweet pumpkin, warm spices, and toasty pecans.

For chef Ouita Michel of The Midway Bakery & Cafe in Midway, Kentucky, who shared this recipe, these pumpkin praline bars mark the start of fall. “To me these praline pumpkin bars sum up everything that’s best about autumn in Kentucky. That tender and sweetly spicy cake layer, the creamy pecan icing — it’s a whole handful of goodness. We love to pack them for family hikes, but they’d be perfect for football tailgates and outdoor concerts or even a trip to the pumpkin patch!” 

Frequently asked questions

What is praline?

Praline is a sweet and chewy confection made from caramelized sugar and nuts such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. 

Can you freeze pumpkin bars?

You can freeze fully cooled, sliced pumpkin bars by wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and placing the wrapped bars in an airtight container in the freezer. For best results, cool the bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before wrapping to help the frosting set up. 

Can I make this in advance?

Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes from the Food & Wine Test Kitchen

Different brands of canned pumpkin can have varying levels of water content. To get the dense, cakey texture of these bars, our testers recommend using Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin Puree.  When spreading the frosting over the bars, make sure to work quickly as the sugary mixture will set and harden as it cools.