Pumpkin Pie Bars Delight (Printable Version)

Buttery crust topped with spiced pumpkin filling and optional pecan glaze for a cozy fall dessert.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/3 cup light brown sugar
03 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
04 - Pinch of salt

→ Filling

05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (increase to 2 tsp for stronger flavor)
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 15 oz canned pumpkin puree
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 1 large egg yolk
12 - 1 cup half and half
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Pecan Topping (optional)

14 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
16 - Pinch of salt
17 - 1/2 cup half and half
18 - 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 or 9x9 inch pan with foil, leaving an overhang on two sides. Lightly grease the foil with nonstick spray. Beat butter and brown sugar using a mixer until creamy. Add flour and salt, mixing until just combined into a crumbly texture. Press mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom and bake for 10 minutes.
02 - Whisk together sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, egg yolk, half and half, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth. Pour filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
03 - Bake bars until filling is mostly set but center slightly jiggles: about 45-55 minutes for 8x8 inch pan, or 25-35 minutes for 9x9 inch pan. Cool pan on wire rack to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled.
04 - In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and salt. Simmer for 2 minutes, whisking frequently. Add half and half while whisking constantly. Simmer one additional minute without boiling. Remove from heat and fold in chopped pecans. Let cool to room temperature until thickened, then pour over bars if desired.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Using measuring cup to press crust ensures an even layer.
02 - Check bars frequently near end of baking to avoid overcooking.
03 - Pecan topping can be served warm or cooled for extra texture.

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