Description
These Pumpkin Pie Bars combine a tender, buttery crust with a creamy, spiced pumpkin filling for a perfect fall dessert. Easy to prepare and ideal for holiday gatherings, these bars offer all the classic pumpkin pie flavors in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Garnish
- Whipped cream or powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Pour in the melted unsalted butter and mix until a dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating the base for your bars. Bake for 15 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the pumpkin filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer.
- Bake Until Set: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firmly set the filling before slicing.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled, topped with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the pumpkin puree is not pumpkin pie filling but pure pumpkin for the best texture and flavor.
- The bars taste best when fully chilled, so refrigerate for the recommended time before serving.
- Spice levels can be adjusted to taste; feel free to add more cinnamon or nutmeg if preferred.
- Use parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slices.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
