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As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold and the air becomes crisp, the aroma of pumpkin desserts begins to fill homes across the country. Pumpkin is a quintessential flavor of the fall season, often associated with Thanksgiving and harvest festivals. From creamy pumpkin pies to spiced pumpkin lattes, this versatile ingredient captures the essence of autumn. Among the array of pumpkin treats, Harvest Pumpkin Pie Bars stand out as a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures that make them a favorite for gatherings and celebrations.

Pumpkin Pie Bars

Embrace the flavors of fall with these delicious Harvest Pumpkin Pie Bars! This simple recipe combines the creamy richness of traditional pumpkin pie with a buttery, easy-to-handle crust, making it perfect for gatherings or indulging at home. With a blend of warm spices and optional crunchy pecans, these bars tantalize the taste buds and capture autumn's essence. Perfect for sharing and celebrating the harvest season, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite!
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Ingredients
  

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ½ cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)

½ cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ teaspoon ground cloves

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup evaporated milk

2 large eggs

½ cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

    Make the Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.

      Press the Dough: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use your fingers or the back of a measuring cup to create an even layer.

        Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

          Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix until well combined.

            Add Eggs and Milk: Whisk in the evaporated milk and the eggs until smooth and fully incorporated.

              Combine and Pour: Pour the pumpkin filling over the baked crust. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top, if using.

                Bake the Bars: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                  Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before lifting them out by the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or bars.

                    Serve: Enjoy your delicious pumpkin pie bars chilled or at room temperature, and consider serving them with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 16 bars