Pumpkin Pie Bars: A Fall Favorite with a Twist Plus a Savory Side
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, pumpkin pie reclaims its rightful place as a fall favorite. While the classic pie is a staple at many tables, pumpkin pie bars offer a delightful twist on tradition, perfectly portioned and easy to serve.
Embrace the flavors of fall with these easy pumpkin pie bars, a perfect treat for five. Plus, learn to make a cinnamon-spiced apple compote for a delectable side dish that complements the seasonal theme.
Introduction
When the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, it’s a clear sign that fall has arrived. Pumpkin pie bars are a delectable dessert that captures the essence of the season, offering the beloved flavors of pumpkin pie in a convenient bar form. Ideal for a small gathering of five, these bars are not only delicious but also present beautifully on any dessert table. To accompany them, a side of warm cinnamon-spiced apple compote provides a contrast in both texture and flavor, making your fall dessert experience complete.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Bars
To serve your quintet, you’ll need the following:
- Pumpkin Puree: 15 ounces (1 can), not pumpkin pie filling
- Evaporated Milk: 12 ounces (1 can), for a creamy filling
- Eggs: 3 large, to set the filling
- Sugar: 3/4 cup, granulated
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: 2 teaspoons, for that signature fall flavor
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, divided
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup, for the crust
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Optional Toppings: Whipped cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg
Step-by-Step Pumpkin Pie Bars Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
In a bowl, combine the flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is crumbly. Press this into the bottom of your prepared dish and bake for 15 minutes until just set.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, the remaining granulated and brown sugars, pumpkin pie spice, the remaining cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling over the baked crust. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Step 4: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. After they have cooled, place them in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. Lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang, and slice into portions.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the pumpkin pie bars chilled or at room temperature, garnished with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
The Perfect Pair: Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Compote
For those who want a touch of fruity sweetness alongside their pumpkin pie bars, a cinnamon-spiced apple compote is the answer:
Ingredients for Apple Compote
- Apples: 4 medium, peeled, cored, and diced
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup
- Water: 1/4 cup
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, ground
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, to prevent browning and add zest
Step-by-Step Apple Compote Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Apples
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the apples, brown sugar, water, and cinnamon. Cook, occasionally stirring, until the apples are soft and the liquid has reduced to a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Finish the Compote
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. The compote can be served warm or chilled,
