Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for a cozy, delightful treat to celebrate the fall season, you’ve come to the right place. These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of warm spices and creamy pumpkin filling, topped with a crunchy oat crumble, is simply irresistible. These bars are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet or for family gatherings where you’ll want to impress your guests. Trust me; this recipe will become a cherished favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pumpkin pie, and these bars make it easy to enjoy it as finger food!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for a dessert that’s always ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a comforting taste that captures the essence of fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Get ready to indulge in this delightful treat!

For the Crust and Topping

• 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
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is how flexible they are! You can easily customize them to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra sweet twist, mix in some chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling.
• Use Almond Flour: Swap out all-purpose flour for almond flour to make them gluten-free!
• Include Dried Fruit: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and flavor.
• Try Different Nuts: If walnuts aren’t your thing, try pecans or leave them out entirely!

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 that’s heating up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!

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 stir until everything is well mixed. This mixture will form your crumble topping and base layer—an essential part of this recipe.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Take about two-thirds of the crumble mixture and press it firmly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread across the bottom; this layer will hold everything together beautifully once baked.

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. Mixing these ingredients well ensures each bite is full of delicious pumpkin flavor!

Step 5: Pour Over the Base Layer

Carefully pour the smooth pumpkin mixture over your crumble base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so every piece has that delightful filling.

Step 6: Add Topping

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the pumpkin layer. If you’re using walnuts for extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle those on now too! It adds a lovely texture that complements the creamy filling.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect crust! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow these scrumptious bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. This helps them set properly so they don’t fall apart when you serve them. Enjoy every bite of this wonderful autumn treat!

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

Making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree – While canned pumpkin works well, using fresh puree can enhance the flavor and richness of your bars. Simply roast a small pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth.

• Chill your butter before melting – Chilling your butter before melting it helps to create a flakier crumble topping. If you have time, you might consider chilling the mixture after combining it with flour for an even better texture.

• Don’t overmix the pumpkin filling – To keep your bars light and fluffy, mix your pumpkin filling just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which isn’t what we want in these dreamy dessert bars.

• Let them cool completely – Patience pays off! Allowing your bars to cool completely before slicing helps them set up nicely and makes for cleaner cuts. It’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me on this one.

• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your preferences! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can give your pumpkin filling an extra kick that complements the traditional flavors beautifully.

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile in how you present them. Here are some fun ideas to make your dessert stand out!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luxurious touch and complements the warm spices in the bars.
• Caramel drizzle – Drizzling some vegan caramel sauce over the top adds sweetness and an elegant finish that will wow your guests.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle – A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top before serving enhances both appearance and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Spiced chai tea – This warm beverage is perfect for fall and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of pumpkin and spice in the bars.
• Apple cider – Serve chilled or warm; its sweet-tartness balances out the richness of the dessert beautifully.
• Vanilla almond milkshake – Creamy and refreshing, this shake adds a delightful contrast that’s sure to please.
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette – A fresh salad provides a light counterbalance to the richness of the bars, making it a well-rounded meal option.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your homemade Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making them a convenient treat for busy days or gatherings. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• To enjoy your bars warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired number of bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• You can also microwave them individually for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin without any added ingredients.

How do I make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars more exciting?

You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top, or even swirl in some chocolate chips before baking for a fun twist!

Are Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These bars are great for meal prep. They store well and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient treat throughout the week.

What spices can I use if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in equal parts!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! Their combination of flavors is truly special and captures the essence of fall. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring them solo with a cup of tea, these bars are sure to bring warmth and joy. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful aroma of pumpkin spice!