If you are looking for a fall-inspired treat that combines creamy, spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery, tender crust, this Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe is an absolute must-try. It captures all the comforting flavors of a classic pumpkin pie but in an easy-to-serve bar form that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy dessert at home. These bars are rich, perfectly spiced, and undeniably delicious, making them a standout addition to your autumn baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the buttery crust that provides a flaky base to the luscious pumpkin filling rich with warming spices that bring the flavor to life.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the crust and ensures a tender, flaky base.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps create a delicate crust texture.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and moisture to the crust for that perfect buttery bite.
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree: The star ingredient delivering creamy texture and deep pumpkin flavor.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the filling together for a smooth, custard-like consistency.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the spices.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel to the pumpkin layer.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the filling while keeping it creamy and smooth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the warmth and depth of all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that signature autumn spice kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle, nutty warmth that complements pumpkin perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a gentle zing that rounds out the spice profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Intensifies the aromatic spice blend for an authentic taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Whipped cream or powdered sugar for garnish: Optional but highly recommended toppings for that finishing touch.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to make removal and cleanup easy. This step ensures your crust won’t stick and your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms with a sandy texture. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create a sturdy yet tender crust. Bake it for about 15 minutes until it turns lightly golden. This pre-baking step gives the crust a deliciously crisp base that holds up perfectly under the filling.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Pumpkin Filling
Grab a large bowl and whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, and all the spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Mix until the filling is completely smooth and evenly blended. This step is key to achieving a creamy, flavorful custard layer packed with cozy autumn spices.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Pour your luscious pumpkin filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Make sure the filling reaches all the edges so each bar has a perfect pumpkin layer in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know the bars are done when the filling is set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. The top should be firm but still have a slight jiggle in the middle, which will set completely as the bars cool.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Allow the pumpkin pie bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least two hours. This chilling step helps everything firm up nicely, making slicing into perfect squares easy without any filling spills.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These bars are already bursting with flavor, but a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top can elevate their look and add a bit of creamy sweetness or delicate texture contrast. For a fun seasonal twist, try sprinkling a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream.
Side Dishes
Pair your pumpkin pie bars with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a mug of hot chocolate for an indulgent autumn-inspired snack. The warm drinks complement the cool, creamy texture of the bars and enhance the cozy feeling they bring.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, serve the bars on a rustic wooden board or a festive fall-themed platter. You can also cut them into smaller bite-sized squares and serve alongside other seasonal treats like pecan pralines or caramel-dipped pretzels for an irresistible dessert spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pumpkin pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and maintain their creamy texture for up to 4 days, making them a convenient dessert to enjoy over several days.
Freezing
If you want to save some bars for a future occasion, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen pumpkin pie bars keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat, you can serve the bars chilled or gently warm them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds if you prefer a softer, slightly warm dessert. Just be careful not to overheat or the filling might become too soft.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin for this recipe?
Canned pumpkin puree is recommended for consistency and convenience, but if you prefer fresh pumpkin, cook and puree it until smooth before measuring the amount needed. Fresh pumpkin may produce a slightly different texture but will still taste wonderful.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the filling?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream cheese for richness. However, using lower-fat milk may slightly thin out the filling, so adjust baking time if needed.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. The texture might be a little different but still delicious.
How can I tell when the pumpkin pie bars are fully baked?
The filling should be set, with no liquid wobbling in the center. Insert a toothpick near the middle, and it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
Is it okay to omit some of the spices?
While the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates that classic pumpkin flavor, you can certainly adjust the amounts or omit cloves if you prefer. The bars will still be tasty, just slightly less spiced.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe is an absolute showstopper that brings all the best parts of pumpkin pie into a fun, easy-to-slice format. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy night in, or simply because you’re craving fall flavors, these bars will not disappoint. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s one of my personal favorites to make and share!
Print
Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these luscious Pumpkin Pie Bars featuring a buttery crust and a creamy pumpkin-spiced filling. Perfect for fall gatherings or whenever you crave a classic pumpkin dessert, these bars offer the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie in an easy-to-serve bar form.
Ingredients
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Prepare Crust: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix until a dough forms, then press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes until it is lightly golden.
- Make Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, and spices — including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt — in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble Bars: Pour the pumpkin filling evenly over the baked crust, spreading it out smoothly with a spatula for an even layer.
- Bake Bars: 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 them for at least 2 hours to firm up before slicing.
- Serve: Slice into 16 squares and garnish with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the pumpkin puree is plain and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.
- For a firmer crust, you can chill the crust dough before pressing it into the pan.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.
- Bars can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For easier slicing, run a warm knife under hot water, dry it, and then slice to prevent cracking.
