Pumpkin Pie Spice Bars with Shortbread

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an inch of overhang on the sides.
2. Combine melted butter, flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl until a sandy dough forms.
3. Press the dough mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes until the edges just begin to turn golden brown.
5. In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree and brown sugar until smooth.
6. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until the batter is uniform and lump-free.
7. Pour the pumpkin filling over the pre-baked hot crust and spread to the edges with a spatula.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle but is not liquid.
9. Remove from oven, cool completely in the pan, and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes before slicing.