Why You’ll Love this Pumpkin Pie Squares Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ll love this Pumpkin Pie Squares recipe. It’s like autumn on a plate!
The warm spices mingle perfectly with the creamy pumpkin filling, making each bite a cozy experience. Plus, the oat crust adds a delightful texture that complements the smoothness of the filling.
I love how easy it’s to whip up; it’s perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try these squares, you’ll want them on your dessert table every fall.
They’re a true seasonal treat you won’t forget!
Ingredients of Pumpkin Pie Squares
When it comes to baking something that feels like a warm hug, these Pumpkin Pie Squares are top of the list. The combination of flavors and textures just screams comfort and joy, doesn’t it? You have that buttery oat crust that’s just the right amount of chewy, and then there’s the velvety pumpkin filling spiced to perfection.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet while binge-watching your favorite show, these squares will be your go-to. Plus, they’re deceptively easy to make, so you can impress your friends without the stress of a complicated recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Pumpkin Pie Squares:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup butter
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed (for the filling)
- 3 eggs (for the filling)
- 3 cups canned pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ginger
- 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 12 pecan halves (for decoration)
Now, a word on the ingredients. Make sure to grab the canned pumpkin puree, not the pumpkin pie filling, because we want control over the sweetness and spices.
You can also swap out the pecans for walnuts if that’s more your style—or even leave them out if you’re not a fan. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
It’s all about what makes your taste buds dance, right? So, gather your ingredients, roll up those sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories with these Pumpkin Pie Squares!
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Squares
Making Pumpkin Pie Squares is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of fall spices. To start, gather your ingredients, including 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of quick-cooking oats, and 1 1/2 cups of packed brown sugar—this is the base of your fantastic squares. You’ll also need 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 3/4 cup of butter.
Now, if you’re like me and often forget to soften the butter ahead of time, don’t sweat it. Just pop it in the microwave for about 10 seconds. You want it soft but not melted, or you’ll have a buttery lake instead of a crumbly base.
Once you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring them together. Grab your trusty food processor and toss in the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Pulse it until it looks like coarse crumbs—this is where the magic happens.
Next, add in that softened butter and process again until it all comes together. Transfer this mixture to a medium bowl, and stir in 1 egg until it’s combined. Now, set aside 1 1/2 cups of this oatmeal mixture for later (this will be your topping). Pat the rest into a greased 13 x 9 baking dish. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 20 minutes, or until it’s golden and firm. It’s okay if you sneak a little taste of the crust while you wait; I won’t tell.
Now, onto the filling, which is the best part—trust me. In another bowl, beat together 3/4 cup of brown sugar and 3 eggs until smooth. Then, mix in 3 cups of canned pumpkin puree, 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 3/4 teaspoon of ginger, and 3/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. The smell alone is enough to make your heart flutter.
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of evaporated milk until everything is well combined. Pour this luscious mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Finally, take that reserved oatmeal mixture, sprinkle it over the top, and add 3/4 cup of chopped pecans for crunch. If you’re feeling fancy, place a few pecan halves on top for decoration.
Bake it all together for about 30 to 35 minutes, until the filling is set and the top is slightly golden. Once it cools, cut it into squares and enjoy the well-deserved results of your hard work. You’ll be the star of whatever gathering you bring these to, or simply the hero of your own cozy night in.
Pumpkin Pie Squares Substitutions & Variations
Have you ever thought about how you can customize your Pumpkin Pie Squares to fit different tastes or dietary needs?
I love swapping regular flour for gluten-free options or using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a healthier twist.
If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try substituting evaporated milk with almond or coconut milk.
For a nutty flavor, I sometimes add chopped walnuts instead of pecans.
You can even spice things up by adding a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat!
Experimenting with these variations keeps my Pumpkin Pie Squares exciting and delicious every time.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Squares
After experimenting with different variations of Pumpkin Pie Squares, I often think about the perfect accompaniments to elevate the experience.
A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that complements the spices beautifully. For a crunch, I love sprinkling toasted pecans on top; they add a delightful contrast.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream can also turn this dessert into an indulgent treat. If you enjoy a bit of acidity, a drizzle of caramel sauce brings a nice balance.
Finally, a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee pairs wonderfully with these squares, enhancing the cozy flavors.
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Pumpkin Pie Squares, I’ve found a few tips that can make a big difference in the final outcome. First, use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor, though canned works well too.
Don’t skip chilling the base before adding the filling; it helps create a firmer texture. I also recommend letting the squares cool completely before slicing; this prevents them from falling apart.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some extra pecans on top before baking. Finally, store leftovers in the fridge to maintain freshness. Trust me, these little details can elevate your dessert experience!