Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 As the air gets crisp and the leaves begin to change, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars. They’re the perfect combination of warm spices, creamy pumpkin, and a crunchy oat topping. If you’re looking for an easy fall dessert recipe that brings warmth to your home, this is it! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want a cozy treat for a busy weeknight, these bars are sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavors of pumpkin pie combined with a crunchy topping.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare these bars in advance and store them for later, saving you time on busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting taste that defines fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a breeze! These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a delicious treat that everyone will love. Here’s what you will need:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Use Different Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or even almonds for a different crunch.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour if you prefer.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for an extra kick of flavor!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial because it helps ensure your bars bake evenly and don’t stick!

Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until well-mixed. This will form your crumble mixture, which serves as both the base and topping for your bars.

Step 3: Create the Base Layer

Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread to form a solid base layer. This layer holds everything together and gives you that delightful crunch!

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creamy filling is what makes these bars so deliciously comforting during fall.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the pumpkin filling over the crumble base, spreading it evenly to cover every inch. This ensures each bite has that rich pumpkin flavor we love.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Sprinkle any remaining crumble mixture on top of the pumpkin filling. If desired, add chopped walnuts for extra crunch and flavor. This topping adds texture that complements the creamy filling beautifully.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set. Keep an eye on them towards the end; you want that perfect balance between soft filling and crispy topping.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow your bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares. Patience is key here! Once they’re cool, serve them up as dessert or enjoy them as an afternoon snack paired with your favorite hot beverage.

And there you have it—delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars that are perfect for any occasion! Enjoy sharing this easy fall dessert recipe with friends and family.

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

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars can be a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If you have the time, consider roasting and pureeing your own pumpkin. Fresh puree can enhance the flavor and texture of the bars compared to canned varieties.

• Chill Your Dough: After mixing your crumble mixture, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before pressing it into the baking dish. This helps solidify the butter, leading to a crunchier topping.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser bars instead of light and fluffy ones.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial; this helps them set properly and makes cutting easier, resulting in clean edges.

• Store Properly: To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for longer shelf life. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing!

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

These delightful bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting them beautifully can elevate your dessert spread.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light and airy contrast that complements the richness of the pumpkin filling.

• Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top right before serving adds extra sweetness and a touch of spice, making each bite even better.

Side Dishes

• Hot Apple Cider: The warm spiced notes of apple cider pair beautifully with the flavors of pumpkin, creating a cozy fall experience.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that contrasts wonderfully with the crumbly texture of the bars.

• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each bar introduces an indulgent sweetness that enhances every bite.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like apples and pears provides a bright contrast and balances out the richness of the bars perfectly.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these scrumptious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! Gather your loved ones around, serve up these treats, and cherish those beautiful autumn moments together. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, making your fall gatherings even more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Once cooled, cover the bars tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, slice the bars and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer the slices into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for about 30 seconds on high.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful bars!

Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices in Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Using pumpkin pie spice is a convenient way to incorporate all the warm flavors into your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars. Just use the same amount specified in the recipe for a perfectly spiced filling.

How should I store my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars after baking?

To keep your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to 5 days, making them easy to enjoy throughout the week!

Can I substitute ingredients in this Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with different types of flour or sweeteners based on your dietary needs. Just ensure that any substitutions maintain similar textures and flavors for best results.

Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?

Definitely! This recipe makes a generous batch of Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars that are perfect for sharing at gatherings. Cut them into smaller squares for easy serving and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! They capture all the cozy flavors of fall and are sure to bring smiles around your table. Enjoy making this delightful treat, share it with loved ones, and embrace the joy of this beautiful season. Happy baking!