Pumpkin Pie Bars - Portable Fall Dessert

Looking for the perfect fall dessert that combines the classic flavors of pumpkin pie with the convenience of a handheld treat? These Pumpkin Pie Bars are exactly what you need. They are easily portable, making them ideal for potlucks, Thanksgiving gatherings, or simply enjoying a cozy autumn evening at home.

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What are Pumpkin Pie Bars?

Pumpkin Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the traditional pumpkin pie, offering all the delicious flavors in a more convenient and portable format. Imagine the creamy, spiced pumpkin filling of a classic pie nestled atop a buttery, crumbly crust. That’s exactly what you get with these bars! They’re less fussy than a whole pie, easier to serve, and perfect for sharing. These bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and spice, making them an irresistible treat for any pumpkin lover.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and yields a satisfying result. So, why not give these Pumpkin Pie Bars a try and bring a taste of fall to your next gathering or enjoy them as a personal treat?

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Bars:

For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bars:

These Pumpkin Pie Bars are incredibly easy to whip up, taking about 15 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to bake. The crust is a simple mixture of flour, butter, brown sugar, and a touch of salt. The creamy, spiced pumpkin filling is made with pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice. Bake until the filling is set, let cool, and cut into squares. It’s delicious and easy to enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup to smooth it out.
4. Pre-bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes. This helps prevent a soggy crust.
5. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
6. Pour the pumpkin filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden. The center should be just set but with a slight wobble.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for the bars to set properly.
9. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. This will make the bars easier to slice and handle.
10. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into desired sizes. For cleaner cuts, you can run the knife under warm water and wipe it clean between each cut.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Pie Bars

These Pumpkin Pie Bars are a fall favorite for many reasons! First and foremost, the flavor combination is simply irresistible. The creamy pumpkin filling, infused with warm spices, perfectly complements the buttery, crumbly crust, creating a symphony of tastes and textures in every bite. Beyond the flavor, making these bars at home is incredibly cost-effective compared to buying pre-made desserts. You control the quality of ingredients, and you’ll likely find that it’s significantly cheaper to bake a batch of these bars than to purchase individual slices of pumpkin pie.

Finally, the toppings are where you can really get creative. A dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce can take these bars to the next level. If you love these, be sure to also check out our Apple Crumble Bars for another delightful fall treat! Give these pumpkin pie bars a try and enjoy a taste of autumn in every delicious bite.

What to Serve Pumpkin Pie Bars With:

These Pumpkin Pie Bars are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of complementary dishes and drinks.

Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy, cool contrast to the spiced pumpkin flavor.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and adds a rich, decadent touch.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the bars beautifully, making them perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.
Apple Cider: Another fall favorite that pairs well with pumpkin spice flavors.
Spiced Nuts: A side of spiced pecans or walnuts adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the bars.

Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Pie Bars:

Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is essential for creating a flaky, tender crust. Make sure the butter is very cold and cut into small cubes before mixing it with the flour.
Don’t Overmix the Crust: Overmixing the crust will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust. Mix the dough just until it comes together.
Pre-Bake the Crust: Pre-baking the crust helps prevent a soggy bottom layer. Bake the crust for 12 minutes before adding the filling.
Don’t Overbake the Filling: Overbaking the filling can cause it to crack. Bake until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
Let the Bars Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This will make them easier to slice and prevent them from falling apart.
Ingredient Substitutions: For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the crust. You can also use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a refined sugar-free version.
Timing Adjustments: If you find that the crust is browning too quickly, you can cover the edges with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin Pie Bars:

While Pumpkin Pie Bars are a dessert, they do offer some nutritional benefits. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function. It is also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety. The pumpkin pie spice blend contains spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to consume these bars in moderation, as they also contain sugar and fat.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Storing:

Refrigeration: Store leftover Pumpkin Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating:

While these bars are best served cold or at room temperature, you can warm them slightly if desired.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can make the filling watery.
Microwave: Place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals until warmed through. Be cautious, as the microwave can make the crust soggy.

Final Thoughts:

These Pumpkin Pie Bars are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall in a portable and shareable format. Easy to make, delicious, and packed with pumpkin spice goodness, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or a delightful treat for yourself. Enjoy baking and happy fall!

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Pumpkin Pie Bars FAQs:

Can I use store-bought pie crust? Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust to save time. Make sure to pre-bake it according to the package instructions before adding the filling.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree? No, pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sweeteners that will alter the flavor and texture of the bars. Use plain pumpkin puree for the best results.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? Pre-baking the crust and letting the bars cool completely before cutting will help prevent a soggy crust.
Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes, these bars can be made a day or two ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I add a crumb topping to these bars? Absolutely! A crumb topping made with flour, butter, and sugar adds a delicious texture and flavor.

Pumpkin Pie Bars – Portable Fall Dessert