Pumpkin Pie Bars
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of pumpkin pie wafting through your home. If you love the classic flavors of pumpkin pie but are looking for a healthier, more portable option, these delightful pumpkin pie bars are the perfect solution! With a gluten-free crust made from coconut flour and a rich, creamy pumpkin filling, these bars are sure to become a new favorite for gatherings, special occasions, or simply a cozy night in. Let’s explore the details of this recipe, along with helpful tips and reasons why you’ll love making these pumpkin pie bars!
Reasons You'll Love This Recipe:
Healthier Alternative: With coconut flour and coconut milk, these bars are gluten-free and dairy-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it an accessible option for bakers of all skill levels.
Perfect for Fall: The warm spices and rich flavors make these pumpkin pie bars a delightful addition to any fall gathering, from Thanksgiving feasts to cozy autumn nights.
Versatile Serving Options: These bars can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with toppings like whipped cream, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair.
Helpful Tips:
Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality pumpkin puree and natural sweeteners.
Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste preferences and the sweetness of your pumpkin, feel free to adjust the amount of sweetener in both the crust and filling.
Add a Crunch: If you like a bit of texture, consider adding chopped nuts to the crust for added crunch.
Storage: These pumpkin pie bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.
Ingredients You'll Need:
1 Cup Coconut Flour: This gluten-free flour is a fantastic alternative to traditional flour, offering a light texture and subtle sweetness. If you prefer, almond flour can also be used for a different flavor profile.
1 Egg: The egg acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the crust together while adding richness.
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil: A healthy fat that contributes moisture to the crust, olive oil also enhances the overall flavor.
2 Tablespoons Sweetener: Choose your preferred sweetener—honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute—to add a touch of sweetness to the crust.
1 Teaspoon Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the crust.
For the Pumpkin Filling:
1 Can Pumpkin Puree: This is the star ingredient, providing that classic pumpkin flavor and creamy texture. Pumpkin is also rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice.
1 Can Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds creaminess and a hint of tropical flavor, making the filling rich and decadent. You can use full-fat or light coconut milk based on your preference.
2 Eggs: Additional eggs in the filling help create a custard-like texture, ensuring the bars are smooth and delicious.
3 Tablespoons Sweetener: Sweeten the filling to your liking, balancing the natural sweetness of the pumpkin with your choice of sweetener.
1 Teaspoon Vanilla: Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1 Teaspoon Salt: A pinch of salt in the filling helps to amplify the flavors of the pumpkin and spices.
1 Teaspoon Cloves and Nutmeg: These warm spices bring a cozy, aromatic flavor that is quintessential to fall and holiday desserts.
1 Tablespoon Cinnamon: Another must-have spice for pumpkin desserts, cinnamon adds warmth and enhances the sweetness of the filling.
Instructions:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is ideal for baking the pumpkin pie bars to perfection.
Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut flour, egg, olive oil, sweetener, and salt. Mix until well combined. The mixture will resemble a loose powder at this stage.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Line a baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Pour the crust mixture into the pan and press it down firmly, ensuring it forms a solid and even layer across the bottom.
Prepare the Pumpkin Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, eggs, salt, sweetener, vanilla, and spices. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. This filling is where the magic happens, transforming your pumpkin into a luscious, creamy delight.
Bake the Bars: Pour the pumpkin filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the pumpkin pie bars cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares for serving.
Serve and Enjoy: For an extra treat, serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top. These bars are perfect for sharing and are sure to impress your family and friends!
