Ingredients
Method
Make the Crust
- 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.
- Add the vanilla extract, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until a dough forms. It should be a little soft.
- 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
- Put the crust in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
Make the Filling
- 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.
- Add the evaporated milk and stir until the mixture is smooth.
Add Filling to Crust
- 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
- 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
- Once baked, let the bars cool to room temperature. Then, place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Serve
- 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.
