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Pumpkin Pie Bars

A delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, these bars feature all the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin pie in a convenient bar form, perfect for fall gatherings or family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Pinch kosher salt
For the Filling
  • 1 15 ounce can pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon maple extract (optional) Optional for extra flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 12 ounce can evaporated milk
For Topping
  • Homemade whipped cream For topping

Method
 

Make the Crust
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar using a mixer or a whisk.
  2. Add the vanilla extract, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until a dough forms. It should be a little soft.
  3. Line your 9x9 inch pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. Press the dough into the bottom of the pan evenly. Use a fork to poke holes in the dough. This helps it bake better.
Par-Bake the Crust
  1. Put the crust in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
Make the Filling
  1. While the crust is baking, in a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt. Stir until everything is blended well.
  2. Add the evaporated milk and stir until the mixture is smooth.
Add Filling to Crust
  1. After the crust has par-baked, take it out of the oven. Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over the warm crust, spreading it out evenly.
Bake Again
  1. Bake the Pumpkin Pie Bars in the oven for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue baking for another 25-40 minutes. The bars are done when the filling is set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Chill
  1. Once baked, let the bars cool to room temperature. Then, place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Serve
  1. When you are ready to serve, cut the bars into squares. Top each piece with homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired.

Notes

These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For freezing, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen bars can last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.