Delicious Pumpkin Pie Bars with Graham Crust

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with these scrumptious Pumpkin Pie Bars Graham Crust! There is something truly magical about the combination of a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety spiced pumpkin filling that just screams comfort and coziness. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are a quick and easy alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, making them ideal for both busy weeknights and leisurely gatherings.

Crafted with a perfect balance of seasonal spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, these Pumpkin Pie Bars Graham Crust are sure to become a fast favorite in your home, just like they did in mine. The aroma of these bars baking in the oven will instantly transport you to autumn celebrations and warm memories. Plus, with a dollop of whipped cream on top, they are simply irresistible!

Whether you’re preparing for a family holiday, potluck, or simply craving a taste of fall, these bars are a must-try. Serve them straight from the fridge for that creamy, chilled texture, or get creative with toppings like a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel. So, bring a touch of nostalgia and modern simplicity to your next gathering with these crowd-pleasing Pumpkin Pie Bars Graham Crust!

Quick Benefits

• Easy to make and perfect for weekday baking or relaxed gatherings
• Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days
• Versatile recipe that allows for substitutions like gingersnap cookies for crust, dairy-free options, and different toppings
• Freezes well for up to two months, making it a great make-ahead dessert option

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Pumpkin Pie Bars with Graham Crust Recipe

• Easy to Make: Perfect for a quick weekday baking or relaxed gatherings.
• Crowd Pleaser: Tastes just like traditional pumpkin pie but even more beloved by friends and family.
• Convenient: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days, and they hold their creamy texture.
• Versatile: Can customize the crust by using gingersnap cookies or whole wheat graham crackers for different flavors.
• Dietary Options: Can be made dairy-free by using coconut oil and plant-based evaporated milk.
• Nostalgic: The scent of cinnamon and cloves filling the kitchen brings back memories of autumn celebrations.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for family holidays, potlucks, or Friendsgiving, connecting people across generations.
• Creative Twists: Add cream cheese swirls, chocolate chips in the crust, or top with toasted pepitas for extra flavor and texture.
• Freezer Friendly: Slice and freeze for up to two months, then thaw and enjoy the same creamy texture as freshly baked.
• Always a Hit: Perfect for sharing and guaranteed to bring smiles to any gathering – just chill, slice, top with whipped cream, and savor every bite.

Ingredients for Delicious Pumpkin Pie Bars with Graham Crust

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Pumpkin Filling

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

Topping

• Whipped cream, for serving

Pro Tips for Delicious Pumpkin Pie Bars with Graham Crust

Pro tip: To enhance the flavor of the graham crust, try using crushed gingersnap cookies or whole wheat graham crackers for a delicious twist. If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute coconut oil for butter and use a plant-based evaporated milk, keeping in mind that the flavor profile may subtly change.

Pro tip: For a creative variation, swirl in some cream cheese for a tangy marbled effect or add mini chocolate chips to the crust before baking for extra crunch. Top the bars with toasted pepitas for a nutty finish that adds a delightful contrast in texture. These additions can elevate the bars and offer a unique touch to the classic recipe.

How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Pie Bars with Graham Crust

Step 1: Prepare oven and pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang.

Step 2: Form and bake crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into prepared dish to form a compact base. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.

Step 3: Combine pumpkin filling

Combine pumpkin purée, granulated sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth and well mixed.

Step 4: Add filling over crust

Spread the pumpkin filling evenly over the pre-baked crust using a spatula.

Step 5: Bake until set

Bake the dish for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and chill

Cool bars at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours until firm.

Step 7: Portion and serve

Remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles. Add whipped cream on top of each piece right before serving.

Storage Tips

After baking and serving your delicious pumpkin pie bars, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Ensure the bars are covered, and if stacking them, place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. The bars retain their creamy texture when chilled and can be enjoyed straight from the fridge.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pumpkin pie bars by slicing them, layering with parchment paper in an airtight container, and freezing for up to two months. Thaw the bars overnight in the refrigerator for the same creamy texture as when freshly baked. This makes it convenient to prepare a batch ahead of time for future gatherings or to enjoy a treat over time without worry of spoilage.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different crust flavor, you can swap out the graham cracker crumbs for an equal amount of gingersnap or shortbread crumbs. This will give the bars a unique twist and add a different dimension of flavor to the dessert.

For a dairy-free option, you can substitute coconut oil for the unsalted butter in the crust. Additionally, using a plant-based evaporated milk will make the bars lactose-free. Just keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the overall taste of the bars.

If you don’t have canned pumpkin purée on hand, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin as a substitute. Simply use equal amounts of fresh roasted and pureed pumpkin for a similar texture and flavor in the filling. This allows for a homemade touch and a more natural pumpkin taste in the bars.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and festive serving suggestion, try cutting the pumpkin pie bars into small bite-sized squares and skewering them with mini bamboo picks for easy grabbing at parties or potlucks. You can also dust the bars with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and elegance.

To elevate the presentation of the pumpkin pie bars, serve them on a platter garnished with fresh cranberries and a few cinnamon sticks for a pop of color and seasonal flair. This not only adds a decorative touch but also enhances the fall vibes of the dessert, making it a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving spread.

FAQs for Delicious Pumpkin Pie Bars with Graham Crust

Can I use fresh roasted and pureed pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?

Yes, you can substitute equal amounts of fresh roasted and pureed pumpkin for a similar texture and flavor.

How do I know when the pumpkin pie bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the center looks set and a knife inserted into the filling comes out clean.

Can I serve these pumpkin pie bars warm instead of chilled?

These bars are best enjoyed chilled after refrigeration, which helps them set for clean slices.

How long can I store these pumpkin pie bars for?

Absolutely. They keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making them convenient for advance preparation.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Pie Bars Graham Crust are a delightful treat that embodies the essence of fall in every bite. Whether you are preparing them for a family gathering, potluck, or just a cozy evening at home, these bars are sure to be a hit. The creamy pumpkin filling, warm spices, and buttery graham cracker crust come together to create a dessert that is both nostalgic and comforting.

As you slice into these Pumpkin Pie Bars Graham Crust and savor each mouthful, may the flavors transport you to memories of crisp autumn days and joyful celebrations. Share them with loved ones and watch as smiles light up their faces with each delicious bite. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these delightful bars, and create your own traditions with this timeless recipe.