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There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm, spicy notes of pumpkin spice, especially as we transition into the cozier months of fall. This Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares recipe captures that very essence, offering a delightful treat that is moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for coffee breaks, dessert, or even as a sweet snack during the day, these cake squares will instantly make you feel at home with their inviting aroma and delicious taste.
Why Make This Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares
Why resist the seasonal charm of pumpkin spice when you can whip up a batch of these irresistible snack cake squares? Not only do they embody the essence of autumn, but they also make a fantastic addition to any gathering or celebration. With a soft, fluffy texture and a scrumptious glaze on top, they are sure to impress your family and friends. These snack cake squares are incredibly versatile; enjoy them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a delightful dessert after dinner. Each bite is a taste of fall that you won’t want to miss!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares
Making these Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares is straightforward and perfect for bakers of any skill level. The recipe requires basic pantry ingredients, ensuring you won’t have to make a special trip to the store. You’ll find that the process is refreshing, as mixing and layering your ingredients to create a moist cake can be therapeutic. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions to help you create this delicious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt together until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Carefully add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
- Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth and well-blended, creating a lovely, thick texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling a perfectly baked cake.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled snack cake, allowing it to seep into the cake for added sweetness.
- Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your cozy fall treat!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 8g (Saturated Fat: 1g)
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 160mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 2g
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares
These squares make a delightful treat any time of the day! Serve them warm straight from the oven or at room temperature, sprinkled with a dusting of additional powdered sugar for a festive touch. Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or your favorite herbal tea to enhance the cozy flavors. Consider serving them at gatherings, potlucks, or even as a special snack for your family on a chilly afternoon.
How to Store Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze individually wrapped pieces for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving, and they will taste just as delicious as when they were freshly baked!
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: For the best flavor, consider using homemade pumpkin puree. However, canned pumpkin works great as well – just ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pie filling!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure a tender cake.
- Check Oven Temperature: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes, especially the first time you make it.
- Customize the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice based on your preference for warmth and spice level.
Delicious Variations
Want to put a fun twist on your Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares? Try these ideas:
- Nutty Add-Ins: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Mix in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist, or top the cake with a chocolate ganache instead of glaze.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute the glaze with a rich cream cheese frosting for an indulgent dessert experience.
- Spiced Up Glaze: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. It may make the cake denser, but it will still taste great.Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based oil. Replace the milk with your favorite non-dairy milk.What can I use instead of pumpkin pie spice?
You can create a homemade version using equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Adjust to taste based on your preferences!
Conclusion
The Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares are a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of fall in a deliciously simple form. Moist, flavorful, and topped with a delightful glaze, these little squares are perfect for any occasion. Try them at your next gathering or indulge in a sweet moment alone. Baking these snack cakes is not only a rewarding experience, but it also fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of autumn. So roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and whip up a batch today—you won’t regret it! We’d love to hear how your Pumpkin Spice Snack Cake Squares turn out, so feel free to share your experiences or any variations you try!