Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for an easy fall dessert that warms the heart and delights the taste buds, you’ve come to the right place. These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe are a beloved family favorite in my home. The combination of creamy pumpkin filling with a crunchy oat topping makes it a treat everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these bars are sure to impress and make your kitchen smell like autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps that even beginner bakers can follow without any stress.
• Delicious Flavor: With warm spices and creamy pumpkin, these bars capture the essence of fall in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this sweet treat, making it perfect for sharing.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these bars in advance, saving time when guests arrive or during busy days.
• Customizable: Feel free to adapt the recipe with your favorite add-ins or toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful fall treat!

For the Crumble Base

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• (optional) 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Variations

One of the best parts about these bars is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative and make them your own with these fun variations:

• Add More Spice: If you love a spicier kick, consider adding extra pumpkin pie spice or even a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Nutty Crunch: Swap out walnuts for pecans or almonds for different textures and flavors.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version while keeping that rich taste.
• Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips into the filling or sprinkle on top for an indulgent touch.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly. While the oven heats up, prepare your 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step makes removing the bars easier later on.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, packed brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything is well combined. Your mixture should resemble coarse crumbs—it’s this crumble that will create a delicious base for your bars.

Step 3: Prepare the Base Layer

Take about two-thirds of the crumble mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms a sturdy base layer that will hold up against the creamy pumpkin filling. Make sure it’s evenly spread out so every bite is just as tasty!

Step 4: Whisk Together Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar (the remaining 1/4 cup), eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture is what gives your bars their rich flavor and creamy texture; don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Spread Pumpkin Filling Over Base

Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over your pressed crumble base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across so each piece of bar will have that perfect balance of filling and crust.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Crumble Mixture

Sprinkle any leftover crumble mixture over the pumpkin filling. If you’re using walnuts for added crunch, now’s the time to sprinkle those on top as well! It adds an extra layer of texture that complements the creamy filling beautifully.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and feels set to touch. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly—just wait until you take that first bite!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from oven and allow your bars to cool completely in the dish before slicing them into squares. Patience is key here; letting them cool helps them hold together better when served.

There you have it! A delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe with friends and family this season!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is all about those little details that elevate your baking game! Here are some pro tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious and satisfying.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin is convenient, using fresh pumpkin can enhance the flavor and texture of your dessert. Roast a sugar pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth for a vibrant taste.

• Chill the butter before melting: If you chill your unsalted butter before melting it, it helps maintain a crumbly texture in the base layer, giving you that delightful crunch we all love in crumble bars.

• Don’t overmix the filling: When combining the ingredients for the pumpkin filling, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles, leading to cracks as they bake.

• Let them cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing the bars to cool completely will make them easier to slice and will help them hold their shape. Warm bars may crumble when cut.

• Adjust spices to taste: The pumpkin pie spice can be tailored to your preference. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of warmth!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delightful but also versatile in how you present them! Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, here’s how to serve these bars beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture and coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top right before serving gives a warm aroma and enhances the fall vibes.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the bars adds a sweet touch that complements the spiced pumpkin perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Maple-infused yogurt: A side of creamy maple yogurt balances sweetness with tanginess and provides a luscious contrast to the bars.
• Spiced apple slices: Fresh apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon offer a refreshing crunch alongside the rich crumble bars. They create an appealing color contrast as well!
• Vanilla ice cream: This classic pairing makes any dessert feel special. The cold ice cream melts slightly against the warm bars, creating a heavenly combination.
• Hot apple cider: Nothing says fall quite like sipping on warm apple cider. It’s comforting and pairs beautifully with these sweet treats for an all-around autumn experience!

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with these delectable Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! Enjoy every bite! 🍂

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and enjoy the flavors of fall whenever you like!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place the bars in an airtight container.
• Store them at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply take out the desired number of bars and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• If you prefer them warm, heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use canned pumpkin for Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe and saves you time. Just make sure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

What can I substitute for eggs in Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Both options will help bind the ingredients while adding moisture.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I make these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring that it’s one-to-one compatible.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They capture all the cozy flavors of fall and are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or mix-ins like chocolate chips or raisins. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and joy this season!