Description
These easy Pumpkin Pie Bars are the perfect fall dessert, combining a buttery shortbread crust with a creamy spiced pumpkin filling. A simplified version of traditional pumpkin pie, these bars are ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- For the filling:
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional Topping:
- Whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
-
In a medium bowl, mix together melted butter, sugar, flour, and salt to form a crumbly dough.
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Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
-
Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
-
Pour the pumpkin mixture over the pre-baked crust.
-
Return to oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
-
Cool completely before cutting into bars. Chill for at least 2 hours for best results.
-
Serve with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
-
These bars can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
-
For a firmer crust, bake an additional 5 minutes before adding the filling.
-
Make it dairy-free by using a vegan butter substitute and coconut milk in place of evaporated milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
