When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, the warm, spiced aroma of Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust fills the home with a sense of comfort and nostalgia. These delightful treats are the perfect blend of creamy pumpkin and buttery shortbread that will have family and friends reaching for seconds. Imagine sinking your fork into a slice with that crispy shortbread base, adorned with fluffy whipped topping or sprinkled nuts—a true indulgence! Did you know that pumpkin is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients? My family loves these bars, especially during our cozy family gatherings. They are as satisfying as my popular Apple Crisp recipe—easy to make and even easier to devour.
So, let’s dive into this delectable dessert that’s bound to be a hit at your next family gathering!
What is Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust?
Ah, Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust—the name itself sounds like a carol straight from a delicious cookbook, doesn’t it? You might wonder, how did we go from traditional pumpkin pie to these fabulous bars? Imagine taking a bite that feels like a soft pillow of pumpkin heaven laid on a crispy, buttery cloud. It’s true what they say: “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” These bars do just that, making them a crowd favorite! Why not whip up a batch this week? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
There are countless reasons to adore these Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust, and here are three that stand out! First, the rich flavor of pumpkin combined with warm spices makes every bite memorable. The sweet, buttery shortbread crust complements the pumpkin filling perfectly, creating a marriage of textures that you won’t soon forget. Secondly, cooking at home not only saves money but allows you to bring everyone together for a moment of joy. Finally, feeling creative with toppings makes all the difference; think dollops of whipped cream, crunchy pecans, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. Each addition enhances the experience and makes each slice feel like a festive treat. Why wait? Gather your loved ones and start baking!
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
Creating Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust is not only a breeze, but it’s also a delightful way to engage your family in the kitchen. You’ll be amazed by how easy it is to capture that iconic pie flavor in bar form while enjoying a crispy shortbread crust. In about 20 minutes of preparation and just 40 minutes of baking, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser ready to slice up and serve!
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
To make these heavenly bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of salt
With these simple ingredients, you are just steps away from creating something spectacular!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until the mixture holds together and forms a dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Make the Pumpkin Filling:
- In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Add the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture over the baked crust, smoothing it out evenly.
- Bake:
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the filling is set. You can check by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Serve with your favorite toppings!
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
- Substitutions: You can substitute the unsalted butter for coconut oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
- Timing: Make sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing; this helps them hold their shape.
- Avoiding Mistakes: If the filling seems too runny, check that your pumpkin puree isn’t too watery. Canned pumpkin is usually best!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months, making sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat them in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.
Now that you’ve got the recipe for these irresistible Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking. Enjoy the flavors, warmth, and connection that comes from creating something delicious for your loved ones!
Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until the mixture holds together and forms a dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Add the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture over the baked crust, smoothing it out evenly.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- You can check by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
- Serve with your favorite toppings!
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