Pumpkin Bars With Maple Pecan Frosting

It is absurd how easy these pumpkin bars are to make.  There are only 8 ingredients and I'm pretty sure you probably have most of them on hand! They are the perfect fall treat and were a huge hit in our house.  These bars are so moist and flavorful and you honestly don't even need to have the frosting. They are a very similar texture to banana bread.  I made a batch and put the maple pecan frosting on half and kept the other half without frosting.  I have to say that we enjoyed them both ways!  So you are welcome to try them either way.  I have another icing that I use on my pumpkin and carrot muffins that would be very tasty too. Hope you enjoy!

Ingredients:

-1/2 cup pumpkin puree
-1/2 cup almond butter
-1/3 cup honey
-2 eggs
-2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-1/4 teaspoon sea salt
-1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350F and grease an 8″ x 8″ pan generously with coconut oil or butter.
2. Combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl, and mix well until a smooth batter forms
3. Transfer the batter to the greased pan, and bake at 350F for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is firm
4. Allow to cool completely in the pan, then cut and serve!

These bars are delicious on their own! But if you want to really impress she has a maple pecan glaze recipe that is to die for!

Maple Pecan Glaze Ingredients:

3/4 cup pecans
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
2 Tablespoons coconut oil
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt


Instructions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a high-speed blender, and blend until smooth and creamy.
2. The glaze may be used immediately, but will thicken up when chilled. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

http://detoxinista.com/2012/09/grain-free-pumpkin-bars/