As the crisp air of autumn sweeps in, it brings with it an irresistible craving for warm, comforting flavors. Nothing quite encapsulates the essence of the season like the scent of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg wafting through the kitchen. I was pleasantly surprised by how easily I could transform my favorite fall dessert into a crowd-pleasing treat: Pumpkin Pie Bars with a buttery shortbread crust.
In the midst of a busy week, I longed for a homemade indulgence that could satisfy my sweet tooth without the fuss of a traditional pie. These bars came as a delightful revelation—not only do they boast that familiar pumpkin spice goodness, but they’re also incredibly simple to whip up. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a dessert that feels luxurious yet is absolutely achievable, making it the perfect solution for potlucks or cozy gatherings at home.
Join me in embracing the flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Pie Bars—because who needs fast food when you can have homemade magic right from your oven?
Why are Pumpkin Pie Bars a must-try?
Easy preparation: This recipe requires just 15 minutes of hands-on time, making it a breeze for anyone, even on the busiest of days.
Seasonal delight: With the warm aroma of pumpkin and spices, your kitchen will feel like autumn has arrived.
Irresistible texture: The melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust pairs perfectly with the creamy pumpkin filling.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, these bars will have your friends and family coming back for seconds!
Make-ahead option: Prepare them in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones. Every bite is a warm embrace of fall, so why not get started?
Pumpkin Pie Bars Ingredients
• Dive into the deliciousness!
For the Shortbread Crust
• All purpose flour – provides the structure for a tender base.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the crust to balance the filling’s rich flavors.
• Cold butter – ensures a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture; don’t forget to keep it chilled!
For the Pumpkin Filling
• Pumpkin puree – the star ingredient that brings the essence of fall to your bars; ensure it’s 100% puree for the best texture.
• Large eggs – bind the filling while adding a rich creaminess.
• Salt – enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
• Pumpkin pie spice – infuses the filling with cozy autumn notes; feel free to adjust according to your taste!
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the filling to perfection.
• Evaporated milk – adds a creamy richness for that dreamy texture.
Get ready to impress with these delightful Pumpkin Pie Bars!
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bars
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Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a 9×13″ baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This helps with clean-up later!
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Combine crust ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, mix together the flour and 1/4 cup of sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter, cutting it into the flour until you achieve a crumbly texture resembling coarse crumbs.
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Press and set the crust: Firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
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Mix filling ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and 2 cups of sugar. Whisk until smooth, then stir in the evaporated milk until everything is well blended.
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Bake the filling: Pour the pumpkin filling over the crust in the prepared pan. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes; this helps set the filling before reducing the heat.
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Lower temperature: After 15 minutes, keep the pan in the oven, reduce the temperature to 350°F, and continue baking for an additional 50-55 minutes. The filling should be set and slightly firm to the touch.
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Cool and refrigerate: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.
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Slice and serve: When you’re ready, slice the chilled bars into squares. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a light sprinkle of cinnamon for a delightful touch!
Optional: Top with chopped pecans for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Pie Bars are a fantastic solution for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the shortbread crust up to 24 hours in advance. Simply press the crust into the baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap; this helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out. For the filling, you can mix all the ingredients and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before pouring it over the crust. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled filling onto the crust and follow the baking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy decadent bars that are just as delicious with minimal effort on the day of serving!
Pumpkin Pie Bars Variations
Feel free to take your Pumpkin Pie Bars on a custom flavor adventure—let your creativity shine!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter for the crust and swap evaporated milk for almond or coconut milk for a rich, plant-based treat.
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Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for added crunch and flavor. A little texture goes a long way!
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Spiced Up: Boost the spice with a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that will surprise your taste buds in the most delightful way.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle store-bought or homemade caramel sauce over the bars before serving for an indulgent layer of sweetness.
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Coconut Flakes: Fold in 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut into the pumpkin filling for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the spice.
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Chocolate Chips: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the pumpkin mixture right before pouring it over the crust for a chocolatey surprise in every bite.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1 cup of applesauce into the pumpkin filling for a unique flavor blend that keeps the bars moist and adds a fruity essence.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Bars
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Chill the butter: Use cold butter to ensure the crust is flaky. If the butter is too warm, the crust may become dense instead of melt-in-your-mouth light.
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Measure accurately: Make sure to measure your ingredients precisely, especially the pumpkin puree and sugar, to achieve the perfect balance in your Pumpkin Pie Bars.
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Cooling time is key: Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting and refrigerating; this will help them set properly and maintain their structure.
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Don’t skip the spice: Pumpkin pie spice is essential for that cozy, autumn flavor. Adjust it according to your taste but don’t leave it out!
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Use parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper makes it easier to lift out the bars and ensures a clean slice every time.
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Store properly: Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, and enjoy up to a week later!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Bars?
As the warm spices and creamy filling of these delightful bars fill your home with the scent of autumn, the perfect accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a fluffy, airy texture that complements the richness of the bars beautifully.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of maple syrup introduces a sweet, caramel-like flavor that enhances the pumpkin and spices.
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Chai Latte: The spiced warmth of a chai latte echoes the flavors of the pumpkin pie, creating a comforting pairing for a cozy night.
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Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts the warm spices, providing a delightful creamy texture as each bite melts in your mouth.
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Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: For a sweet crunch, serve alongside chewy cinnamon sugar cookies; their texture and flavor harmonize wonderfully with the pumpkin.
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Fresh Apple Slices: Crisp, tart apple slices create a refreshing burst, balancing the sweetness and adding a delightful crunch.
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Pecan Pie Bites: Bite-sized pecan pie treats add a nutty richness that pairs nicely with the pumpkin’s smoothness.
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Hot Cocoa: A steaming cup of rich hot cocoa, with marshmallows floating atop, offers a lush and indulgent drink next to your bars.
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Caramel Sauce: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce brings a luxurious sweetness, creating an irresistible combination with each bite.
Indulge in these pairings and create a charming dessert spread that celebrates the flavors of the season!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Bars
Fridge: Keep Pumpkin Pie Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will ensure they remain moist and flavorful without the need for refrigeration.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating: If you prefer your bars warm, reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence!
Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for 100% pure pumpkin puree without any added sugars or spices. Check the label to ensure it’s not pumpkin pie filling, which has sweeteners and spices added that could alter the taste of your Pumpkin Pie Bars.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Pie Bars?
I recommend storing your Pumpkin Pie Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps retain their moisture and flavor. Just make sure they’re completely cool before sealing them to prevent condensation inside the container!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Bars?
Very! You can freeze these delicious bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them up in the microwave if you prefer a cozy treat.
What should I do if my bars are too runny?
If your bars turn out runny, it could be due to not baking long enough, as the filling needs time to set. Make sure they bake for the full 50-55 minutes after lowering the temperature. The filling should be slightly firm when you gently press it in the center. If you find they still don’t set completely, you can try adding a bit more pumpkin puree next time or ensure your eggs are well-incorporated.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Pumpkin Pie Bars, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also need to add a bit of xanthan gum to help with the texture. The rest of the ingredients should remain the same, and you’ll have a delightful treat for everyone!
Do these bars contain any allergens I should be aware of?
Definitely keep in mind that these Pumpkin Pie Bars contain eggs, dairy (from the evaporated milk), and wheat. If you’re serving guests with allergies, be sure to communicate this and consider substitutes like almond milk for those who are lactose intolerant or egg replacers for those avoiding eggs. Enjoy baking!
Delicious Pumpkin Pie Bars with a Melt-in-Your-Mouth Crust
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a 9x13" baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a small mixing bowl, mix together the flour and 1/4 cup of sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter, cutting it into the flour until crumbly.
- Firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and 2 cups of sugar. Whisk until smooth, then stir in the evaporated milk.
- Pour the pumpkin filling over the crust in the prepared pan. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 50-55 minutes.
- Once baked, let the bars cool completely on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.
- Slice the chilled bars into squares. Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.