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. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to share at your next gathering or a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this recipe will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking whiz to whip up these delicious bars. The steps are simple, making it perfect for everyone!
• Family-Friendly Delight: Even picky eaters will love these bars! The flavors are comforting and familiar, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, these bars are a versatile treat that fits right in.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for later. They taste just as good (if not better!) after chilling in the fridge.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The warm spices paired with creamy pumpkin create an irresistible flavor profile that captures the essence of fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! These simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create your tasty bars. Here’s what you’ll 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
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

• Add Extra Spice: Kick up the flavor by adding some cinnamon or nutmeg along with the pumpkin pie spice.
• Swap in Different Nuts: If walnuts aren’t your favorite, try pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling.

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 it’s heating up, prepare your baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove those delicious bars once they’re baked!

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, packed brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Then pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is well-mixed. The mixture should look crumbly but stick together when pressed—this creates that delightful base layer for your bars.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Take about two-thirds of the crumble mixture and press it firmly into your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out; this forms a sturdy base for holding all that creamy pumpkin filling.

Step 4: Mix Up That Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, remaining brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step is crucial because blending well ensures every bite is full of rich flavor!

Step 5: Pour & Spread

Carefully pour the pumpkin mixture over your crumble base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so that every corner gets that delicious filling.

Step 6: Add Topping & Bake

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the pumpkin filling. If you’re using chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor, now’s the time to sprinkle them on too!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. The aroma will fill your kitchen with cozy fall vibes!

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once baked, allow your bars to cool completely before slicing into squares or rectangles. Trust me—the patience will be worth it when you bite into these scrumptious treats!

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are a breeze to make, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin is convenient, fresh pumpkin puree can provide a richer flavor and creamier texture. Just roast and blend your pumpkin for the best results.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial. It helps them set up beautifully, making them easier to cut into neat squares without falling apart.

• Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your preference. If you love cinnamon or nutmeg, adding a bit more can enhance the seasonal flavors.

• Store properly: Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for a week. This will help maintain their freshness and flavor.

• Add a twist: Experiment by mixing in chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the crumble layer for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.

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

Serving these delectable bars is just as delightful as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this fall treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and fluffy texture that complements the richness of the bars beautifully.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top just before serving can add an inviting sweetness and hint of spice that enhances the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: Warm spiced apple cider is a perfect drink pairing that enhances those cozy fall vibes while balancing out the sweetness of the bars.
• Vanilla almond milk: A glass of chilled vanilla almond milk offers a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the warm flavors of pumpkin.
• Chai tea: The warming spices in chai tea harmonize well with your dessert, creating a comforting experience ideal for autumn afternoons.
• Mixed green salad with candied pecans: A refreshing salad provides a nice contrast to the sweet bars. Candied pecans add crunch and flavor that complement those warm spices.

Enjoy making and sharing these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, and let their deliciousness fill your home with warmth this fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them an ideal treat for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bars into individual pieces before freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

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 heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual bars for about 20 seconds or until warmed, but be careful not to overheat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful pumpkin treats:

Can I use pumpkin pie mix instead of pumpkin puree for these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! If you’d like to switch it up, you can use canned pumpkin pie mix. Just be aware that you’ll need to adjust the sugar content since pumpkin pie mix is already sweetened.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Leftover bars should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully for later enjoyment!

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

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.

What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup = 1 egg) as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they bring the warmth and comfort of fall right into your kitchen. Whether you share them with friends and family or savor them all by yourself, these bars are sure to delight. Happy baking, and may your fall be filled with joy and sweetness!