Craving cozy flavors and comforting treats? Look no further! This fall, indulge in a delightful array of fall dessert recipes – Pumpkin Pie Bars that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. From classic apple crisps to pumpkin cheesecakes, we’ve got you covered with recipes that are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
What is Pumpkin Pie Bars?
Pumpkin Pie Bars! Where did you get that name? And why does it sound so ridiculously delightful? Did a mischievous baker accidentally spill pumpkin pie filling into a brownie pan and, in a stroke of genius, decide to bake it anyway? Is it a pie that’s magically transformed into a bar shape?
Or maybe it’s just a really, really good dessert and someone decided to give it a catchy name! Regardless, these bars are the perfect mix of creamy pumpkin, warm spices, and a crumbly crust. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Embrace your inner baker, and let’s get those Pumpkin Pie Bars going! Afterall, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.’
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie Bars:
These Pumpkin Pie Bars are a triple threat of awesomeness. First, the creamy pumpkin filling is a fall dream come true, bursting with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Second, these are budget-friendly! You can whip up a whole batch for less than the price of a fancy coffee.
And third, let’s not forget that delectable graham cracker crust. The textural contrast between the smooth filling and the buttery crust is just divine. Love pumpkin pie? Then you’ll adore these bars. They’re like pumpkin pie’s cooler, easier-to-handle cousin. Ready to ditch the fork and dive into a bar? These are fun and perfect for a casual gathering. Let’s get baking!
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Bars:
Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible Pumpkin Pie Bars:
- Graham Crackers: 1 ½ cups (about 10 full sheets), finely crushed.
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted.
- Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup.
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 (15-ounce) can.
- Evaporated Milk: 1 (12-ounce) can.
- Eggs: 2 large.
- Brown Sugar:
- 1/2 cup packed.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: 2 teaspoons.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bars:
This dessert is surprisingly easy to make, with a prep time of only 20 minutes. We are going to highlight the warm spices, creamy texture, and crumbly crust so you can enjoy the amazing flavors of fall in every bite. Each bite delivers satisfaction without all the work of rolling out dough for pies.
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
Now, let’s get to the details!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Pre-bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Pour Filling: Pour the pumpkin filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
- Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!
What to Serve Pumpkin Pie Bars With:
Pumpkin Pie Bars are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a few complementary treats. For a touch of elegance, serve alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon over the top adds a warm, aromatic touch. These bars are also delicious accompanied by a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. For an extra indulgent experience, consider pairing them with caramel sauce or chocolate shavings.
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Pie Bars:
- Crust Consistency: Make sure your graham cracker crumbs are finely crushed. A food processor works great for this, but you can also use a rolling pin and a zip-top bag.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will dry out pie bars out with cracking. Bake until the center is just set, but still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Spice it Up: If you want a bolder pumpkin spice flavor, add an extra half-teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. A pinch of ground cloves can also add depth.
- Ingredient Substitution: If you do not have evaporated milk, use heavy cream. This will create a richer filling with a more decadent flavor.
- Cooling is Key: Resist the urge to cut into the bars before they are completely cooled and refrigerated. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents them from being messy.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
To store any leftover Pumpkin Pie Bars, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated bars: simply take them out of the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying them. For frozen bars, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Final Thoughts:
These Pumpkin Pie Bars are a fall dessert recipes game-changer! They capture all the beloved flavors of pumpkin pie in an easy-to-make, shareable form. From the warm spiced pumpkin filling to the buttery graham cracker crust, every bite is a celebration of the season.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to delight your taste buds with these Irresistible Fall pumpkin Pie Bars!
FAQs:
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
While canned pumpkin puree is convenient and readily available, you can certainly use fresh pumpkin puree if you prefer. Just be sure to roast and puree your fresh pumpkin properly, and drain any excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these bars gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest