Heavenly Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe: Fall’s Sweetest Treat

Autumn’s golden hues spark a nostalgic baking adventure with these delectable pumpkin pie bars that promise comfort in every bite.

The classic fall dessert merges traditional flavors with an irresistible twist you’ll adore.

Warm spices dance through a buttery crust, creating layers of sweet satisfaction.

Rich and creamy pumpkin filling nestles perfectly between tender, crumbly edges that melt on your tongue.

Each bar delivers a harmonious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and seasonal warmth.

The recipe offers a delightful alternative to traditional pie, making seasonal indulgence simple and utterly delicious.

Slice into these bars and savor the essence of autumn’s most beloved dessert.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)

Calories: 320 kcal

Servings: 13

What You’ll Need for Pumpkin Pie Bars

• Butter: Provides rich, creamy base that creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture and golden color.
• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create crisp, caramelized edges.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and adds structure to the crust.
• Vanilla: Enhances overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• Flour: Creates the foundational structure of the shortbread.
• Baking Powder: Helps the crust achieve a light, tender crumb.
• Cinnamon: Introduces warming spice that complements pumpkin flavor.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies other flavors.

• Pumpkin Puree: Delivers classic autumn flavor and creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the filling.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help set the custard-like filling.
• Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Create deep, complex sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken and stabilize the filling.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Blends classic warming spices for traditional pumpkin pie taste.
• Cinnamon: Reinforces warm, comforting flavor profile.
• Salt: Enhances and balances overall taste.

• Heavy Cream: Creates light, fluffy texture when whipped.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps stabilize whipped cream.
• Nutmeg: Provides finishing aromatic garnish with warm, slightly nutty flavor.

Baking Tools for Pumpkin Pie Bars

• Stand Mixer: Essential for creaming butter and whipping cream with paddle and whisk attachments.
• 9×9 Inch Baking Pan: Perfect square pan for creating even bars.
• Parchment Paper: Crucial for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
• Measuring Cup: Helps press shortbread crust evenly and precisely.
• Large Baking Sheet: Provides stability and prevents spills during baking.
• Wire Rack: Allows proper cooling of bars after baking.
• Large Bowl: Used for mixing pumpkin filling ingredients.
• Whisk: Necessary for blending filling and creating smooth texture.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.
• Sharp Knife: Helps slice chilled bars cleanly.

Directions for Making Pumpkin Pie Bars

• Crust Foundation

Grab a square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy lifting. Blend butter and sugars until they turn creamy and soft. Mix in egg and vanilla, then fold in dry ingredients until just combined. Press the dough smoothly into the pan, creating an even base that will support your delicious layers.

• Pumpkin Magic

Whisk pumpkin, cream, eggs, and sugars into a silky mixture. Sprinkle in spices and cornstarch, stirring until everything blends perfectly. Pour this golden-orange liquid over your prepared crust, spreading it gently to cover every corner.

• Baking Transformation

Start with a hot oven set to 400°F. Slide your pan onto a baking sheet and let the heat work its magic. After 15 minutes, lower the temperature and continue baking until the edges look set but the center still has a gentle jiggle.

• Cooling and Chilling

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer to the refrigerator and let them rest for several hours, allowing flavors to meld and texture to become firm and luscious.

• Creamy Crown

Whip heavy cream with a touch of sugar until it forms beautiful, soft peaks. When ready to serve, dollop this cloud-like topping over each bar and dust with a hint of nutmeg for a final flourish.

Tips and Add-ins for Pumpkin Pie Bars

• Replace traditional pumpkin pie spice with homemade combinations using ginger, cardamom, or Chinese five-spice for unique flavor profiles.
• Experiment with adding finely chopped pecans or graham cracker crumbs to the shortbread base for extra crunch and depth.
• Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based butter alternatives to make the bars suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan friends.
• Drizzle melted chocolate, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds, or add caramel swirls to elevate the visual appeal and taste complexity of the bars.
• These bars keep perfectly in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, making them ideal for advance party preparation or quick dessert options.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Bars Neatly

• Cozy Autumn Dessert Plate: Arrange the pumpkin pie bars on a rustic wooden board with cinnamon sticks and small decorative gourds for a seasonal presentation that feels warm and inviting.
• Holiday Gathering Treat: Serve these bars during family gatherings, cutting them into small squares that allow everyone to enjoy a delightful seasonal dessert without feeling too full.
• Coffee Companion Pairing: Complement the rich pumpkin bars with a hot cup of spiced chai or dark roast coffee, creating a perfect balance of flavors that enhance the warm spices in the dessert.
• Elegant Brunch Finale: Plate the bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a small dollop of extra whipped cream, making them an elegant ending to a weekend brunch or afternoon tea.

Keep Pumpkin Pie Bars Fresh Longer

• Fridge Fresh Storage: Keep these delightful pumpkin pie bars tightly wrapped in plastic or sealed container for up to 5 days. Refrigeration helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents potential spoilage.
• Freezer Friendly Option: Slice bars into individual portions, wrap securely in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bag. These tasty treats can be frozen for maximum 2 months without losing quality or flavor intensity.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire dessert 1-2 days before serving. The flavors actually enhance when allowed to rest in refrigerator, creating deeper, richer taste profile that guests will absolutely love.
• Temperature Balance: Always store bars between 34-40°F to ensure maximum freshness. Allow bars to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and maximize flavor experience.

Heavenly Pumpkin Pie Bars

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• Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Grandma’s classic pumpkin pie bars combine creamy spiced filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. Homemade comfort meets seasonal sweetness, inviting you to savor each delightful bite of autumn’s favorite dessert.

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Ingredients

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• 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin puree
• 1 ¼ cups (10 oz) heavy cream
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar, packed
• ⅓ cup (66 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups (205 g) all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1 egg, room temperature
• 2 tbsps powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsps vanilla
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, creating an overhang for easy extraction. Position oven rack in the middle position.
2. Crust Creation: Utilize a stand mixer to cream butter and sugars until fluffy and pale. Integrate egg and vanilla extract, mixing until thoroughly combined. Gently incorporate flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until the dough slightly pulls away from the bowl’s edges.
3. Initial Baking: Spread shortbread dough evenly across the prepared pan, using a measuring cup to achieve a smooth, level surface. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, targeting golden brown edges and a set center.
4. Filling Composition: While the crust cools, whisk pumpkin puree, heavy cream, eggs, sugars, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl until silky smooth. Fold in cornstarch, pumpkin pie spice, additional cinnamon, and salt, ensuring a uniform mixture.
5. Assembling and Baking: Transfer the pumpkin filling over the partially baked crust, guaranteeing even distribution. Place the pan on a large baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F. Continue baking for 40 minutes, watching for set edges and a slight center jiggle.
6. Cooling and Finishing: Remove from oven and allow bars to cool at room temperature for 45-60 minutes. Refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours or overnight. Before serving, prepare whipped cream by beating heavy cream and powdered sugar until firm peaks form. Slice chilled bars, top with whipped cream, and dust with a light sprinkle of nutmeg.

Notes

• Precision Matters: Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and consistent texture in both crust and filling.
• Crust Perfection: Press shortbread dough firmly and evenly to create a stable base that won’t crumble when slicing.
• Baking Technique: The initial high-temperature bake sets the crust, while the lower temperature ensures the filling sets without burning.
• Chilling is Crucial: Refrigeration allows bars to firm up completely, enhancing flavor and making clean, picture-perfect slices possible.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg