Why You’ll Love This Easy Vegan Pumpkin Pie Bars with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe
These bars are rich, smooth, and perfectly spiced with pumpkin pie flavor. The graham cracker crust adds a buttery crunch, while the vegan cream cheese helps create a creamy, firm filling. They’re great for fall gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want a make-ahead pumpkin dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust, you’ll need vegan graham crackers, brown sugar, and melted vegan butter.
For the filling, you’ll need canned pumpkin purée, vegan cream cheese, arrowroot or cornstarch, brown sugar, cane sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
Vegan whipped cream is optional for serving.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F / 175°C. Line an 8-inch / 20-cm square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift the bars out later.
Add the vegan graham crackers and brown sugar to a food processor. Process until crumbly, then drizzle in the melted vegan butter. Continue processing until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Press the crust firmly into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom and slightly up the sides. Use the back of a measuring cup to pack it down well.
Add the pumpkin purée, vegan cream cheese, arrowroot or cornstarch, brown sugar, cane sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract to a blender. Blend until completely smooth.
Pour the pumpkin filling over the crust. Spread it evenly into the corners and smooth the top.
Bake for 50 minutes, or until the top looks darker and set. Let the pan cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set. Lift the bars out using the parchment sling, cut into 9 squares, and serve with vegan whipped cream if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 9 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 50 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: 5 hours 5 minutes
Variations
Use gingersnap-style vegan cookies instead of graham crackers for a spicier crust.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for extra warmth.
Swirl a little extra vegan cream cheese into the filling before baking for a marbled look.
Top the chilled bars with chopped pecans, coconut whipped cream, or a dusting of cinnamon.
Use dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pumpkin pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Thaw frozen bars overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
These bars are best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
Can I make these pumpkin pie bars ahead of time?
Yes. These bars are perfect for making ahead because they need several hours to chill and set.
Do I have to chill the bars overnight?
Overnight chilling gives the best texture, but 4 hours is the minimum chilling time.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?
Yes, but make sure it is thick and well-drained so the filling is not watery.
Can I use cornstarch instead of arrowroot?
Yes. Cornstarch works well as a substitute for arrowroot in this recipe.
Do these bars taste like vegan cream cheese?
No. The vegan cream cheese mainly adds creaminess and structure, while the pumpkin and spices are the main flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free vegan graham crackers for the crust.
Why is my filling soft?
The bars may need more chilling time, or the pumpkin purée may have been too watery.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes. Double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
How do I get clean slices?
Chill the bars fully, then use a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for neater squares.
Can I serve these without whipped cream?
Yes. They are delicious plain, but vegan whipped cream adds a nice creamy topping.
Conclusion
Easy vegan pumpkin pie bars with graham cracker crust are a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert with classic pumpkin pie flavor in a convenient square. Creamy, warmly spiced, and easy to prepare ahead, they’re a great choice for holidays, gatherings, or cozy fall baking.
