Grandma's Pumpkin Pie Dessert Squares (Made Healthier)

Try this Grandma's Pumpkin Pie Dessert Squares (made healthier) recipe.

Grandma's Pumpkin Pie Dessert Squares (Made Healthier)
Grandma's Pumpkin Pie Dessert Squares (Made Healthier)

Try this Grandma's Pumpkin Pie Dessert Squares (made healthier) recipe.

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Served Person: 35
  • Carbohydrate 0.395166857142857 g
  • Cholesterol 0.28 mg
  • Fat 0.0625211428571429 g
  • Fiber 0.0394457131522042 g
  • Protein 0.234664 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.0386162857142857 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (7g)
  • Sodium 7.35742857142857 mg
  • Sugar 0.355721143990653 g
  • Trans Fat 0.0035816 g
  • Calories 3 calories

Step-by-step

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. and spray a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ingredients for the crust and press into the bottom of the pan.
  • Use the same bowl to combine the ingredients for the filling and pour over the crust.
  • Rinse the mixing bowl and combine the ingredients for the topping. Sprinkle topping over filling.
  • Bake at 350 degrees F. for 45 to 50 minutes.
  • Allow dessert squares to cool for about 20 minutes and then chill in the fridge (at least 3-4 hours) before serving.
  • Bars will be tasty at room temperature, but are best served COLD with a whipped topping. You can use Cool Whip or Redi-Whip, but to keep bars more nutritious use whipped coconut cream, So Delicious Dairy Free Cocowhip or Truwhip.

Grandma's Pumpkin Pie Dessert Squares: A Healthier Twist on a Classic

As a busy working mom, time is always of the essence. Finding healthy and delicious desserts that don't require hours in the kitchen is a constant quest. That's why I was so excited to discover this recipe for Grandma's Pumpkin Pie Dessert Squares – a healthier take on a beloved classic. It satisfies my sweet tooth without sacrificing my family's well-being, and honestly, the ease of preparation makes it a regular fixture in our home.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. I love that it uses a cake mix as a base for the crust – a real time saver! The addition of melted vegan butter adds a delightful richness, and the pumpkin pie filling is surprisingly light and flavorful. I’ve even experimented with different types of dairy-free milk – almond milk works wonderfully, but I’ve also had great success with oat milk. The topping is simple yet effective, providing a nice textural contrast to the creamy filling.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet treat, simply reduce the amount of sweetener. You can also experiment with different spices – a pinch of ginger or nutmeg would add a lovely warmth to the filling. And let’s not forget the topping! While whipped coconut cream is a healthier option, a dollop of Cool Whip never hurt anyone!

Making these squares is a fun activity to share with the kids, too. It’s a great way to introduce them to baking and get them involved in the kitchen. Plus, the end result is a delicious treat everyone can enjoy – a perfect reward after a long day or a delightful addition to any gathering. I've even adapted this recipe for Thanksgiving, serving it as a unique dessert alongside the traditional turkey and stuffing. The response is always overwhelmingly positive – everyone raves about the flavor and texture, and they’re always pleasantly surprised to hear how healthy they are!

Beyond the Recipe: This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a story of adapting traditions to fit a modern lifestyle. My grandmother always made the most incredible pumpkin pie, but her recipe was far from health-conscious. This adaptation honors her legacy while ensuring my family can enjoy this classic treat without the guilt. It's about finding balance – enjoying the things we love while making mindful choices about our health and well-being. It's a testament to the power of creativity in the kitchen and the joy of adapting recipes to suit our needs. It's a recipe that's evolved with me, reflecting my changing lifestyle and priorities, while still retaining the heart and soul of a cherished family tradition. And that, my friends, is what makes this more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of my heart baked into every square.

So, whether you're a busy professional, a stay-at-home parent, or simply someone who appreciates a quick and easy dessert that tastes amazing, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed. It's the perfect blend of convenience, health, and deliciousness – a trifecta that’s hard to beat!