Looking for delicious pumpkin recipes to celebrate the autumn season? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve got a treasure trove of Pumpkin Spice Muffins delights to satisfy every craving, Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars from sweet and savory to simple and spectacular.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these recipes will bring the warm, comforting flavors of fall right to your table. Get ready for a pumpkin spice-filled adventure!
What is Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars?
Ever wonder how pumpkin pie decided to go on a diet? Just kidding! These Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars probably weren’t born out of a pie’s weight-loss aspirations, but who knows? Maybe some clever baker thought, “I love pumpkin pie, but I want to be able to eat it with one hand!” Or maybe it was just a brilliant way to sneak more pie into our lives under the guise of a “bar.” Whatever the story, these bars are a slice (or rather, a bar!) of heaven. Rumor has it, grandma always said, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,’ well, maybe these bars are the express lane! Ready to fall in love? Give these spiced pumpkin pie bars a try!
Why You’ll Love This Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars:
Why these bars? Well, they’re pumpkin pie, but easier. The main attraction is the perfectly spiced, creamy pumpkin filling nestled on a buttery crust. Plus, ditching the pie plate means fewer dishes – a win-win! You’ll save money by whipping up a batch instead of buying individual slices at the bakery. Top them with whipped cream or a sprinkle of pecans for an extra touch of autumn elegance. If you love pumpkin pie but want a quick, crowd-pleasing twist, these bars are for you. For another fantastic fall treat, check out our Apple Crisp recipe! Ready to bake up some happiness? Try making these Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars at home!
Key Ingredients for Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars:
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable treats:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 4 tablespoons ice water
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars:
These spiced pumpkin pie bars are a delightful and satisfying treat, perfect for a fall gathering or a cozy evening at home. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to prepare, with a rich, spiced filling and a buttery crust which takes only 15 minutes to prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Press into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Pour Filling: Pour the pumpkin filling over the baked crust.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Cut: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
What to Serve Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars With
These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A warm cup of spiced cider or a pumpkin spice latte would also complement the flavors perfectly. For a savory touch, consider serving them alongside a cheese board with sharp cheddar or creamy brie to balance the sweetness.
Top Tips for Perfecting Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars:
- Cold Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is very cold when making the crust. This helps create a flaky texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Crust: Overmixing can result in a tough crust. Mix until just combined.
- Use Real Pumpkin Puree: Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Stick to pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
- Check for Doneness: The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your liking. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can also add extra warmth.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust or sprinkle on top of the filling before baking for added texture and flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Store the cooled Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the 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 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating: While these bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, you can warm them slightly in the microwave if you prefer a warmer dessert. Heat in 15-second intervals until warmed through.
Final Thoughts:
These Spiced Pumpkin Pie Bars are a delightful alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, offering the same comforting flavors in a more convenient and portable form. With a buttery crust and a creamy filling bursting with pumpkin spice, they’re perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Happy baking!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of crust?
A: Yes, you can! A store-bought graham cracker crust or a pre-made pie crust would work well. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to roast and puree the pumpkin properly. You’ll need about 1 3/4 cups of fresh pumpkin puree to replace the 15-ounce can.
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Definitely! In fact, they often taste better after they’ve had a chance to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
A: Go for it! Chocolate and pumpkin are a surprisingly delicious combination. Stir in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the filling before baking.
Q: My crust is soggy. What did I do wrong?
A: A soggy crust can be caused by using too much water or not baking the crust long enough before adding the filling. Make sure to measure the water carefully and bake the crust until it’s lightly golden. Par-baking the crust prior to adding the filling can also help prevent a soggy crust.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest