If you ever find yourself wondering what to do with all those delicious bits of leftover pies after Thanksgiving, let me share a little secret: the Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars Recipe is your new best friend. This inventive and scrumptiously simple treat transforms a medley of pumpkin, pecan, and apple pie fillings into a delightful, swirled bar that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With a buttery crust and a beautifully marbled top, these bars are a warm hug of holiday flavors all wrapped up in a convenient, sliceable form that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or sneaking bites when no one’s looking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together in a harmony of flavors and textures that turn humble leftovers into something extraordinary. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the rich butter creating a tender crust or the variety of pie fillings adding layers of flavor and color that make these bars visually stunning and intensely tasty.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base of the crust providing that irresistible flaky texture and buttery richness.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and ensures a tender crumb.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation creating structure and helping the crust hold its shape.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the butter’s depth and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- ½–¾ cup each of leftover pie fillings (pumpkin, pecan, apple): The star ingredients that bring vibrant color and mouthwatering variety.
- 1 egg (optional): Acts as a binder for softer pie fillings, making swirling easier and the bars more cohesive.
- Cinnamon sugar (for topping, optional): Adds a sparkling sweet and spicy finish that’s like a gentle kiss of fall flavor.
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F; this ensures the crust and fillings bake evenly. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removing the bars effortless and keep clean-up quick. These prep steps are essential for a perfectly baked bar with a beautiful base.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix the softened butter, powdered sugar, flour, and salt until the mixture becomes crumbly. This step requires a gentle touch to keep the butter cold enough to achieve a flaky texture after baking. Once combined, press the dough evenly into your prepared pan to create a sturdy yet tender foundation. Bake the crust for 18 to 20 minutes until it’s just starting to turn golden — this pre-bake prevents sogginess and gives structure to the bars.
Step 3: Prepare and Add the Fillings
While the crust bakes, lightly stir your leftover pumpkin, pecan, and apple pie fillings separately. If any filling feels too runny or soft, beat in an egg to help it bind better when baked. Drop spoonfuls of each filling over the warm crust, then gently swirl them together with a knife to create a stunning marbled effect. This swirl is what makes the Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars Recipe so enticing visually — like a mini canvas of holiday goodness.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pop your pan back in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, just until the filling is set and no longer jiggly. This baking time ensures the bars hold together while the flavors meld beautifully. Once done, it’s crucial to allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, as this helps them firm up perfectly and makes slicing a breeze.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
For an optional but heavenly final flourish, sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top of your cooled bars. This adds a little sparkle, a hint of spice, and a delightful crunch that takes your Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars Recipe from wonderful to irresistible.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To complement the rich flavors in your pie bars, try topping them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also add texture and visual appeal that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
These bars shine best on their own but are delightful alongside a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or even a glass of dessert wine. For a festive brunch, pair them with crispy bacon or a sharp cheddar cheese platter for an unexpected but sensational contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut these bars into bite-sized squares for a party platter or use decorative parchment cups to serve individual portions. They also make a stunning layered dessert when served alongside fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce. No matter how you serve them, these bars are a showstopper that invites conversation and second helpings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain that buttery crust texture. If your kitchen is warm or humid, refrigeration will help preserve them for up to five days without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. They’ll keep well for up to two months, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for unexpected guests or future cozy nights in.
Reheating
To enjoy the bars warm after freezing or refrigeration, simply heat them in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10 to 15 minutes. For a quicker option, a 30-second zap in the microwave works too but may soften the crust slightly. Enjoy the warm, melty swirls that taste just like fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use only one type of pie filling for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the mix of pumpkin, pecan, and apple fillings adds complexity and color, you can create these bars using just your favorite leftover pie filling. It’ll still taste incredible.
Is the egg necessary in the filling mixture?
The egg is optional and mostly used to help bind softer fillings so they hold their shape better during baking. If your leftover fillings are thick, you can skip the egg and still get great results.
Can I make the crust gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. The texture might vary slightly, but the bars will still be delicious.
Why do I need to pre-bake the crust?
Pre-baking ensures your crust is crisp and doesn’t become soggy from the moist fillings. It also helps the bars hold their shape when sliced.
Can I add nuts or spices to the crust?
Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust mix can enhance the flavor and add a delightful nutty crunch to your bars.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so utterly satisfying about turning Thanksgiving pie leftovers into a fresh, irresistible dessert that everyone will love. This Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars Recipe is not just a clever way to reduce waste; it’s a celebration of flavors and creativity that brings more warmth and joy to your holiday table. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how these simple ingredients can come together to create a snack that feels both nostalgic and new. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a beloved tradition in your kitchen too.
Print
Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delightful dessert with these Thanksgiving Leftovers Pie Bars. This easy recipe combines buttery crust with your favorite leftover pie fillings swirled together into a luscious, sliceable bar. Perfect for using up pumpkin, pecan, apple, or any other leftover pies, these bars make a festive treat that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
For the Filling
- ½–¾ cup each of leftover pie fillings (pumpkin, pecan, apple)
- 1 egg (optional, to help bind softer fillings)
For Topping (Optional)
- Cinnamon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix until the dough becomes crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan forming a solid base. Bake for 18–20 minutes until the crust is lightly golden and set.
- Prepare the Filling: While the crust is baking, lightly mix each of your chosen leftover pie fillings separately. If the fillings are particularly soft or runny, add the optional egg to help bind them and provide structure to the bars.
- Assemble and Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of the various pie fillings over the baked crust. Using a knife, gently swirl the fillings together on top of the crust to create an attractive marbled effect without fully mixing them.
- Bake the Pie Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until the filling sets. Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
- Add Topping (Optional): Once cooled, sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top for an added touch of flavor and sparkle if desired.
Notes
- Use a variety of pie fillings for a colorful and flavorful bar, such as pumpkin, pecan, and apple.
- The egg is optional and mainly used if the fillings are soft to help them hold together better.
- Make sure to cool the bars completely before slicing for clean, neat pieces.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- These bars are a fantastic way to use up leftover pies and reduce food waste after Thanksgiving.
