Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place. These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe are not only delicious but also wonderfully comforting. The creamy pumpkin filling nestled under a crunchy oat topping makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these bars bring everyone together around the table.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that even novice bakers can create this delightful treat without any fuss. So grab your favorite baking dish and let’s dive into this autumn-inspired recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to enjoy!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds of these tasty bars.
• Perfect for sharing: Great for potlucks or gatherings, these bars are sure to impress your friends.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Deliciously spiced flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a breeze with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

For the Base and Crumble

• 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 Topping

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling.
• Swap out nuts: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re feeling adventurous!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup so much easier!

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 mixture will create that delicious crumble topping we all love!

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Take about two-thirds of the crumble mixture and press it into the prepared baking dish evenly. This forms the base layer that will hold up all that creamy pumpkin goodness.

Step 4: Whisk Together the 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 filling is where all that cozy fall flavor comes from!

Step 5: Pour the Filling

Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over the crumble base. Spread it evenly so every bite has that luscious pumpkin flavor.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the filling. If you’d like an extra crunch, feel free to sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set in the middle. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time—just wait!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow your bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares. Enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends!

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

Making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a breeze, but a few tips can help elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works perfectly, using fresh pumpkin adds a vibrant flavor and texture that makes the bars even more delightful.

• Don’t overmix the crumble: When combining the crumble ingredients, mix just until they come together. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of a light and crumbly texture.

• Let them cool completely: Patience pays off! Allowing the bars to cool completely will help them set and make slicing easier, ensuring neat and tidy portions.

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, feel free to reduce the granulated sugar or brown sugar slightly. The natural sweetness of pumpkin is often enough for many palates.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add or adjust spices like cinnamon or nutmeg according to your taste preferences. This flexibility allows you to personalize your bars!

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some charming ideas to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy contrast that complements the warm spices beautifully and keeps it dairy-free.
• Caramel drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds an irresistible sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: Dusting the top with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before serving gives an extra touch of warmth and sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The comforting flavors of hot apple cider enhance the fall experience, making it a perfect drink pairing with these bars.
• Vanilla almond milk: A glass of vanilla almond milk brings out the sweetness in the crumble bars while keeping everything plant-based.
• Roasted pecans: Crunchy roasted pecans provide a satisfying texture contrast and complement the flavors found in the bars.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad filled with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the dessert, adding brightness to your plate.

Enjoy your baking adventure with these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! They’re sure to become a cherished recipe for many fall seasons to come. Happy baking! 🍁

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making your fall treats easy and convenient.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars!

Can I use pumpkin pie mix instead of pumpkin puree?

Yes! You can substitute pumpkin pie mix for pumpkin puree, but reduce or omit additional sugars and spices since the mix is already sweetened and spiced.

What makes these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars so special?

These bars combine creamy pumpkin filling with a crunchy oat crumble topping, creating a delightful texture that captures the essence of fall. They’re easy to make and incredibly satisfying!

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

The bars are done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The filling should be set but still slightly soft.

Can I add different nuts or toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Pecans or almonds make great alternatives to walnuts, adding different flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They’re an easy fall dessert recipe that brings warmth to any gathering or cozy day at home. Don’t hesitate to share your creations—happy baking!