Festive Pumpkin Bars

Pumpkin is a great source of vitamins A, C, K, and E, as well as lots of minerals such as, potassium, magnesium, and iron.

So not only are these grain-free pumpkin squares packed with nutrition, but they are seriously so-oo darn delicious!  Nothing excites me more than eating a 'treat' that's just as tasty as it is good for me.

This one's a winner for sure!

INGREDIENTS:

-1/2 cup pumpkin puree (homemade is definitely best, but this works too)

-1/2 cup raw almond butter

- 1/3 cup raw honey

- 2 eggs (preferably from pastured hens)

-1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

-1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and generously grease an 8"x 8" pan 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 for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, and the center is firm.

4. Allow to cool completely in the pan before frosting with the Maple Pecan Glaze.

Maple Pecan Glaze Ingredients:

- 3/4 cups pecans (crispy pecans would be best)

- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil

- 1/4 cup filtered water

- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Directions:

Combine all of the ingredients in a high-speed blender or food processor, and blend until smooth and creamy.  Chill in the fridge for ten minutes or more before frosting pumpkin bars.

Optional: sprinkle chopped pecans on top.

Enjoy!

(Adapted recipe from here)