It’s that time of the year again when pumpkin spice takes over the world. From lattes to pies, everything seems to be infused with the warm, comforting flavor of pumpkin. If you’re a fan of pumpkin treats, you might be wondering if you can make pumpkin bars with pumpkin pie filling. The answer is a resounding yes! In fact, it’s a great way to use up leftover pumpkin pie filling or to save time during the busy holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin pie filling
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin pie filling, 2 eggs, milk, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Pour the mixture over the cake layer.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the pumpkin mixture, if desired.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Serve with whipped cream, if desired.
Nutritional Information:
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 230
Total fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 240mg
Total carbohydrate: 28g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 3g
Cooking Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Toothpick
Serving Suggestions:
These pumpkin bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They’re perfect for fall gatherings and Halloween parties.
Variations:
If you’re feeling creative, you can try adding different spices to the pumpkin mixture, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice. You can also sprinkle chocolate chips or toffee bits on top instead of pecans.
Substitutions:
You can use any flavor of cake mix you like, but yellow cake works best with the pumpkin flavor. You can also use a store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie filling. If you don’t have milk, you can use heavy cream or half-and-half instead.
Storage:
You can store these pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Tips:
- Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting into them to prevent them from falling apart.
- If you’re using a glass baking dish, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F to prevent the bars from overbrowning.
- You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer to mix the pumpkin mixture if you prefer.
Notes:
If you have leftover pumpkin pie filling, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. You can also use it to make pumpkin pancakes, muffins, or smoothies.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned pumpkin pie filling. Simply roast a small pumpkin until it’s tender, then scoop out the flesh and puree it in a blender or food processor. You may need to adjust the amount of milk and spices to get the right consistency and flavor.
Can I use a gluten-free cake mix?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix if you’re sensitive to gluten. Just make sure to check the ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free and adjust the baking time if necessary.
Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can use any nut you like, such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them finely so they spread evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
If you’re looking for a simple and delicious way to enjoy pumpkin this fall, these pumpkin bars with pumpkin pie filling are the way to go. They’re easy to make, taste amazing, and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just looking for a cozy treat to enjoy at home, these pumpkin bars are sure to please. So why not give them a try and see for yourself?