Pumpkin Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, offering a buttery crust paired with a creamy, spiced pumpkin filling. These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or whenever you’re craving a seasonal treat that’s easy to share and simple to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these bars combine all the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie into an easy-to-serve dessert. The buttery crust adds the perfect balance to the creamy spiced filling, making it a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, they are portable, making them ideal for potlucks or family dinners. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, these bars are always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Pumpkin 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
For Topping (Optional)
Whipped cream or powdered sugar for garnish
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and melted butter until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to create the crust. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, and spices in a large bowl until smooth.
Pour the pumpkin filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
Serve chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar on top, if desired.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 16 bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)
Variations
Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust.
Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cardamom or increase the cinnamon for a spicier flavor profile.
Nutty Crust: Mix finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust for added crunch.
Maple Sweetened: Replace half the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain texture.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
How do I know when the pumpkin filling is set?
The filling is set when it no longer jiggles in the center, and a toothpick inserted into it comes out clean.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead. I usually prepare them a day before and let them chill in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, puree it well and ensure it has a similar consistency to canned pumpkin.
Do I need to refrigerate the bars?
Yes, refrigerating the bars helps them set properly and enhances the flavor.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger pan or make two batches. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Pie Bars are a simple yet impressive dessert that captures all the flavors of a traditional pumpkin pie in a portable and sharable format. Perfect for holiday celebrations or an indulgent fall treat, these bars are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Enjoy them as they are or topped with whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Pumpkin Pie Bars
- Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pumpkin Pie Bars are a crowd-pleasing dessert featuring a buttery crust and creamy, spiced pumpkin filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a fall treat, these easy-to-make bars capture the essence of classic pumpkin pie in a sharable format.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Pumpkin 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
Optional Topping:
Whipped cream or powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix flour, powdered sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until a dough forms. Press into the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, heavy cream, milk, vanilla, and spices until smooth.
- Pour filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Slice into squares and serve with whipped cream or powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and almond milk.
Ensure filling consistency when using fresh pumpkin puree.
Bars set best when chilled overnight.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bars
- Calories: 210 kcal
