Introduction

These Irresistible Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie Bars bring all the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin pie into an easy-to-make bar form. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a seasonal treat, they offer a flaky crust and creamy, spiced filling that everyone will love.

The image shows three square pumpkin crumb bars stacked on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. Each bar has three distinct layers: a light beige crumbly base that looks crisp, a smooth and dense orange pumpkin filling in the middle, and a top layer of chunky golden-brown crumb topping that appears crunchy. The crumb topping has larger crumbs creating a rough texture, while the pumpkin layer is soft and uniform. The bars have clean edges, showing the clear separation of layers and making them look thick and moist. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups (180g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (preferably King Arthur)
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg

For the Filling:

1 can (15 oz/425g) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)
3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare the crust by mixing gluten-free flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then stir in the egg to bind. Press this evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake the crust for about 15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Pour the pumpkin filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.
Step 6: Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the filling is set at the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 7: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Tips & Variations

Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the filling for melty chocolate pockets.
Sprinkle 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
Mix in an extra 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger to deepen the spice flavor.
Incorporate 1/4 cup shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical twist.
Replace half the brown sugar in the filling with maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
Swirl softened cream cheese sweetened with a bit of sugar on top before baking for tangy creaminess.
Add 1/4 cup gluten-free rolled oats to the crust for a heartier texture.

Storage

Store the pumpkin pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They are best served chilled or at room temperature. To reheat, warm a bar gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds if you prefer it warm.

How to Serve

The image shows a stack of three square dessert bars on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three layers: the bottom layer is a light golden crumbly crust, followed by a thick middle layer of smooth, deep orange pumpkin filling, and topped with a crumbly, light brown streusel layer that looks rough and sugary. The bars have sharp edges and look moist and soft, with crumbs scattered lightly around the edges. In the background, a pumpkin is slightly blurred, adding a warm autumn feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree to control the flavor and sweetness. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which can alter the taste and texture of the bars.

Are these bars completely gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, these bars are safe for those avoiding gluten.