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 and joy to any gathering or cozy night at home, this one is sure to delight. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these bars will bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, so you can enjoy delicious pumpkin treats without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pumpkin flavors! These bars are perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and simply chill until you’re ready to serve. They taste even better after resting!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices and creamy pumpkin makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
• Versatile Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings or mix-ins, making each batch uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. Let’s gather what you need!

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! You can easily modify it to suit your tastes or pantry staples. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite!
• Use Different Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re craving something unique.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

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 step is crucial as it ensures that your bars bake evenly. While your oven warms up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier!

Step 2: Prepare 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 everything together until well mixed. This mixture will form your delicious crumble layer that acts as both crust and topping—so make sure it’s nice and crumbly!

Step 3: Create the Base Layer

Take half of the crumble mixture and press it firmly into the prepared baking dish to form an even base layer. It’s important to pack it down gently so that it holds its shape during baking.

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 luscious filling is what makes these bars truly special—don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Spread the Filling Over Base

Pour the creamy pumpkin filling over your crumble base in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the entire surface—it’s going to be so good!

Step 6: Add Remaining Crumble Mixture

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

Step 7: Bake Your Bars

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly—trust me on this one!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow your bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares. This step is key; cooling helps them firm up nicely so they won’t fall apart when you cut them!

Now that you know how to make these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe, get ready for compliments from family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite!

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 handy tips, you can take them to the next level!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin is convenient, using fresh puree can enhance the flavor and texture of your bars. It adds a vibrant taste that truly captures the essence of fall.

• Chill the dough before baking: If you’re short on time, this step can be skipped, but chilling the crumble mixture for about 30 minutes helps it hold its shape better when baked and creates that perfect crumbly texture.

• Don’t overmix the filling: When blending your pumpkin filling, whisk just until combined. Overmixing can introduce too much air into the batter, making it puff up rather than remain dense and rich.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your liking or even add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth. This personalization makes each batch uniquely yours!

• Store properly: To keep your bars fresh longer, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They also freeze well, so you can enjoy them later—just thaw overnight before serving!

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

Presenting your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars beautifully can make them even more inviting! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving game:

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture and tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top just before serving gives an extra touch of sweetness and enhances that warm spice flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: For those who love a touch of indulgence, a drizzle of dairy-free caramel sauce adds both visual appeal and rich sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Warm spiced apple cider: The cozy flavors of spiced apple cider complement the pumpkin perfectly while keeping everyone warm on chilly fall days.
• Vanilla almond milk: A glass of chilled vanilla almond milk offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the bars and is great for dipping!
• Roasted pecans: Crunchy roasted pecans provide a delightful nutty contrast to the soft bars, adding another layer of texture.
• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and grapes balances out the sweetness of the bars while adding freshness to your dessert table.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are fantastic for meal prep! You can make them in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making your busy days just a little sweeter.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them where they can last for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure to label with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual squares for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some answers that might help.

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead. Just store them properly after cooling and you’ll have a delightful dessert ready whenever you need it.

What makes this Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars recipe easy?

This recipe is straightforward with simple ingredients and minimal steps. It’s a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of pumpkin pie without the fuss of traditional pie-making!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, just make sure it’s well-cooked and pureed until smooth. This will give your bars a lovely homemade taste.

Are there any nut-free alternatives for this recipe?

Certainly! You can simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you’re looking for added crunch without nuts.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They capture the essence of fall with every bite—perfectly spiced and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or savoring them on your own, I know they’ll bring warmth and comfort to your day. Enjoy baking, and happy autumn!