Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for a delightful way to embrace fall, I’ve got just the treat for you: Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe. These bars combine the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie with an irresistible crumbly topping. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they make a fantastic dessert for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

What makes these bars truly special is how they capture the essence of autumn in every bite. The warm spices and creamy pumpkin filling evoke memories of family traditions and laughter around the table. Trust me, once you try these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have these bars ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and spicy flavors—perfect for everyone!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week; they stay delicious for days!
• Versatile dessert option: Great for any occasion, from holiday feasts to casual get-togethers with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Gather these items to create your delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures to make it your own:

• Add chocolate chips: Incorporate some dark chocolate chips into the filling for a rich twist.
• Try different nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds to change up the crunch factor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version.
• Spice it up: Add extra spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the fall flavor even more.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

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 ensures that your bars won’t stick and will come out perfectly every time!

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 well-mixed. This will form your crumble mixture, which acts as both the base and topping. It’s important to mix thoroughly so that every bite has that delightful oat crunch!

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into your prepared baking dish. Ensure it’s evenly spread out to form a solid base layer. This part needs to be sturdy enough to hold up against the creamy pumpkin filling you’ll add later.

Step 4: Whisk Together Your Pumpkin Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Take your time here—mixing well ensures that all those lovely flavors blend perfectly together.

Step 5: Spread the Filling Over Base

Pour this luscious pumpkin mixture over the crumble base in your baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the entire surface. This is where all that autumn flavor comes into play!

Step 6: Top with Remaining Crumble Mixture

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the pumpkin filling. If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor. This layer will bake beautifully into a golden crust while keeping everything inside soft and creamy.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set. The aroma wafting through your kitchen during this time will be hard to resist!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow your bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares. This helps them firm up nicely so they hold their shape when served.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these incredible Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging by yourself (no judgment here), I know you’ll love every bite!

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

Creating the perfect batch of Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pumpkin puree and spices will give your bars a vibrant flavor. If you can, make your own puree from roasted pumpkins for an added depth.

• Don’t overmix the crumble: When combining the crumble ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of that delightful crumbly topping.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing ensures cleaner cuts and helps the filling set properly. This way, you get those perfect squares!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile and give your bars a unique twist.

• Store properly: To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well if you want to make them ahead of time!

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this scrumptious fall dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top enhances flavor and adds a touch of elegance.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling homemade or store-bought vegan caramel sauce over the bars creates a beautiful presentation and extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warm spices in apple cider harmonize beautifully with pumpkin flavors, making it an ideal beverage pairing.
• Vanilla almond milk: Serve chilled or warmed; its nutty flavor pairs well with pumpkin desserts while keeping things dairy-free.
• Roasted pecans: These add a crunchy texture and rich flavor that complements the softness of the bars.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with apples and pears provides a bright contrast to the rich pumpkin filling.

Enjoy these tips and serving suggestions as you indulge in your delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! Happy baking! 🍰

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and store them for later enjoyment, making your fall gatherings even more delightful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate them for up to a week for added freshness.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight freezer-safe container.
• These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual pieces for about 30 seconds!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars.

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

Yes, you can use canned pumpkin pie mix, but it may alter the sweetness and spice levels of your bars. Adjust sugar and spices accordingly if you choose this option.

How do I make these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free as well.

Can I add other nuts or toppings to my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds. You might also try adding chocolate chips or drizzling caramel on top!

What makes these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars special?

These bars combine the comforting flavors of classic pumpkin pie with a crunchy crumble topping, making them an irresistible fall dessert that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They’re not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of everything wonderful about fall. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring a piece with your morning coffee, these bars are sure to bring warmth and joy to your home. Enjoy every delicious bite!