Best Pumpkin Pie Bars

Yep - I said it. I used the "B" word. What makes these pumpkin pie bars the "best"? They are gluten free, full of fibre, rich in vitamin A and antioxidants, contain healthy fats, protein, low in sugar and more. Best of all - they taste just like pumpkin pie! (plus it comes together in no time at all!) Enjoy warm out of the oven any day for dessert or a healthy filling snack with your favourite hot bevy.

Crust:

1 1/2 cups almond flour (or regular if desired)

1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. cloves

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

1/4 tsp. ginger

2 tbsp. coconut oil, melted

2 tbsp. maple syrup

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/8 tsp. salt

Filling:

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree

3 large eggs, beaten

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. cloves

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

1/4 tsp ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350F.

2. Line 8x8 pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.

3. Mix all crust ingredients in a bowl. It will stick together. Press evenly into pan and bake for 10 minutes.

4. Mix all filing ingredients together well while crust bakes. Pour evenly over baked crust. Bake 30-35 minutes until centre is set and top is crackled.

5. Let bars cool and set a bit before digging in - but fresh and warm from the oven is my favourite way to enjoy these! Store leftovers in fridge.

adapted from Fit Foodie