Pumpkin Magic Bars – Experience the essence of autumn with these Pumpkin Magic Bars, a harmonious blend of sweetness and spices. These bars feature a crust and a decadent layer infused with the flavors of pumpkin complemented by butterscotch chips, toffee bits, and pecans. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or a dedicated pumpkin lover this recipe brings together ingredients to create a treat.
I still remember the first time I whipped up these Pumpkin Magic Bars on a fall evening. My aim was to craft something that encapsulated the comforting flavors of the season. As the enticing aroma filled the kitchen, my husband and child couldn’t resist being drawn towards the oven in anticipation. With their first bite came smiles and unanimous agreement – it was love, at first taste! Since then these bars have become an awaited family favorite that makes its annual appearance every autumn.
What makes these Pumpkin Magic Bars truly special?
Indulging in these Pumpkin Magic Bars is like immersing yourself in the essence of fall with each mouthwatering bite. The simplicity of their preparation ensures they’re adored by bakers of all skill levels. The combination of pie filling, delightful butterscotch chips tantalizing toffee bits, and crunchy pecans creates a symphony of flavors and textures. These bars aren’t desserts; they’re treats perfect for any autumn gathering, potluck event, or even, for cozy evenings spent at home. With their blend of flavors and enticing fragrance, they have become a favorite, among those who savor the spicy tastes that the season offers.
What You Need To Make This Pumpkin Magic Bar Recipe?
Unsalted Butter (Crust): The key ingredient in our crust is butter, which adds a balance of sweetness and a decadently smooth texture. It’s what gives the crust its tender yet sturdy foundation to support the layers above.
Light brown sugar (Crust): With its hint of molasses light brown sugar brings a depth of sweetness that beautifully complements the pumpkin and spices. It also contributes to the crust’s color and slightly chewy texture creating a contrast to the creamy layers.
All-purpose flour (Crust): All-purpose flour is like a superstar in baking providing structure to the crust. It acts as a canvas that binds together all the buttery, goodness resulting in a base with the right crumbly texture.
Pumpkin pie spice (Crust): A sprinkle of this blend is akin to capturing autumn in a jar. It imparts a cozy flavor profile into the crust setting the stage perfectly for the pumpkin layer.
Fine sea salt (Crust): A mere pinch of salt works like magic by enhancing all flavors while balancing out their sweetness. It brings out the best in both pumpkin and spices, for a taste experience.
Pumpkin Pie Filling (Layer): The pumpkin pie filling is the star adding a velvety layer that brings in all the traditional flavors of fall. It’s the heart of these bars creating a contrast, to the textured toppings.
Butterscotch Chips (Layer): Butterscotch chips are like treasures that melt into a buttery river swirling through the pumpkin layer and adding a depth of caramel-like goodness that is simply irresistible.
Toffee Bits (Layer): Toffee bits bring in a play of crunchiness, sweetness, and just a hint of salt. They add a texture to enjoy. Their flavor echoes the charm of brown sugar found in the crust.
Chopped Pecans (Layer): Chopped pecans give a nod to fall baking with their crunch. Not only do they furnish satisfying texture. They also convey a creamy and buttery flavor that perfectly complements the sweet coatings.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (Top Layer): A drizzle of sweetened condensed milk on transforms, into a sticky glaze. It binds all the layers together in harmony bringing richness to every bite.
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice (Optional): For those who love getting hands-on in their baking, you have an option to mix your pumpkin pie spice. This way you can customize the flavor according to your preferences. It’s a measure that adds personalization to your bars while replenishing your kitchen with a fragrance that’s uniquely yours.
Steps To Make Pumpkin Magic Bars:
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take an 11×7 baking dish. Line it with foil giving it a spray of cooking spray.
Step 2: In a bowl cream together the butter and brown sugar until it becomes wonderfully light and fluffy. This process should take 2 minutes.
Step 3: Gently combine the flour, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until they are perfectly blended with no dry spots remaining.
Step 4: Press this mixture into the dish and bake for about 15 minutes. You’re aiming for a brown color and a firm texture.
Step 5: Now it’s time, to layer! Evenly spread the pumpkin pie filling over the crust.
Step 6: Next, sprinkle on the butterscotch chips followed by the toffee bits. Then add the pecans.
Step 7: Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over everything in a manner.
Step 8: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until you achieve a golden brown top.
Step 9: Remember to be patient! Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before refrigerating them. Once chilled you can slice them into treats!
Step 10: Store these bars, in the refrigerator and serve them chilled for delightful enjoyment!
Tip:
To achieve perfectly shaped bars it’s important to have patience. Once your Pumpkin Magic Bars have completely cooled in the pan place them in the refrigerator, for a minimum of 2 hours before cutting. This step helps firm up the layers allowing for beautiful cuts. Remember to use a knife and wipe it clean between each cut to ensure that every bar looks as good as it tastes. By following this effective technique you’ll give your dessert a refined appearance—making it an ideal choice for gatherings or as a special treat, for your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use homemade pumpkin pie filling?
Certainly! Making your filling adds a touch and allows you to adjust it according to your personal taste preferences.
How long do these bars keep?
These bars will stay fresh for, up to 5 days when stored in the refrigerator, which makes them perfect for preparing in advance.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! These bars freeze wonderfully. Just wrap them individually. You can enjoy them for, up to 3 months.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Pumpkin Magic Bars
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1/2 c unsalted butter
- 1/3 c light brown sugar packed
- 1 c all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice or pumpkin pie filling
- Pinch of fine sea salt
Pumpkin Magic Bar Layers:
- 1 c pumpkin pie filling
- 11 oz butterscotch chips
- 1 c toffee bits
- 2 c chopped pecans
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
Pumpkin Pie Spice:
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp Nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp Ground Ginger
- 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves
- 1/2 tsp Ground Allspice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 11x7-inch baking dish and line it with foil. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl cream together 1/2 cup of butter and 1/3 cup of light brown sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. Add in 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well. Press this mixture into the bottom of your dish.
- Bake the Crust: Place the dish in the oven. Bake the crust for about 15 minutes or until it turns lightly browned.
- Add Pumpkin Layer: Take 1 cup of pumpkin pie filling. Spread it evenly over the crust.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle butterscotch chips (11 oz), toffee bits (1 cup) and chopped pecans (about 2 cups), over the pumpkin layer.
- Evenly drizzle 14 oz of sweetened condensed milk over the layers.
- Put back into the oven for another 30 to 35 minutes or until you notice a color on top.
- Allow enough time for your bars to cool completely in the pan before refrigerating them. This will help them set properly.
- Once chilled cut into bars and serve. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container, in the refrigerator.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
