Recipe Of The Month: Pumpkin Chai Latte Bars

Fall is here, and that means cozy sweaters, warm drinks, and of course—pumpkin spice season. If you’re looking for a healthier seasonal indulgence that combines comfort with a touch of spice, these Pumpkin Chai Latte Bars are a must-try.

With a creamy, pumpkin-pie-like filling on top of a buttery shortbread crust, and infused with warming chai tea, these bars bring together everything we love about autumn. Perfect for family gatherings, a post-run treat, or paired with a cup of tea on a cool evening.

Why You’ll Love Them

• Spiced with chai – Layers of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Pumpkin-rich – A fall favorite that’s naturally high in fiber and vitamin A.
• Make ahead friendly – These bars need time to chill, making them the perfect dessert to prep the night before.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

For the filling:

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup white sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ⅛ tsp cloves
• ⅛ tsp allspice
• 2 large eggs (room temp)
• 1 ½ cups half-and-half
• 3 chai tea bags

Directions

1. Infuse the creamIn a small saucepan, heat half-and-half over medium-low until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat, add chai tea bags, and steep for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the crustPreheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, beat butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Add flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Press evenly into the pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until set. Cool for 5 minutes.
3. Make the fillingIn the same bowl, mix pumpkin, sugars, vanilla, and all spices until smooth. Squeeze liquid from the steeped tea bags, discard, then slowly pour the infused cream into the pumpkin mixture. Mix until combined. Add eggs, mixing just until incorporated.
4. BakePour filling over crust. Bake 50–55 minutes, until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
5. Chill & ServeCool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Lift out with parchment and cut into 12 squares. Optional: top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 227
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 27g
• Protein: 3g

✨ Tip: Pair with a hot tea or latte for the ultimate cozy fall moment.

🍂 At the Muscle and Joint Clinic, we’re big believers in balance—staying active, fueling your body with nutrient-rich foods, and yes, enjoying seasonal treats like this one.