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 everyone will adore, this is it! These bars are not just delicious; they bring a touch of cozy to any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering.

Imagine walking into your home and being greeted by the sweet aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting through the air. That’s what these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars offer—a warm hug in dessert form! Plus, they’re simple enough that you can whip them up with your kids or enjoy some peaceful baking time by yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love these bars! The delicious combination of pumpkin and crumble will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to bring joy to friends, these bars are ideal for sharing.
• Make ahead convenience: These bars store beautifully in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
• Deliciously comforting: The flavors of pumpkin pie wrapped in a crumbly topping make every bite feel like autumn!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

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

Optional Add-in

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different flavors and textures to make it your own.

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Use pecans instead of walnuts: If you’re a fan of pecans, swap them out for a rich nutty flavor.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg alongside pumpkin pie spice for added warmth.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.

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 ensures that your bars bake evenly. While it warms up, prepare your baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This will help you easily remove the bars after baking!

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 until well-mixed. This mixture forms the base and topping of your bars—it’s where all that delicious crumbly texture comes from!

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom; this will create a solid foundation for your creamy pumpkin filling.

Step 4: Mix Together 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. This step is crucial because it combines all those lovely flavors that define classic pumpkin pie.

Step 5: Pour Over Crumble Base

Carefully pour the smooth pumpkin filling over the crumble base. Spread it evenly so every bite has that lovely pumpkin goodness.

Step 6: Add More Crumble

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the pumpkin filling. If you chose to add walnuts for crunch and flavor, now’s the time to sprinkle them on too!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown on top and set in the center. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once done baking, allow your bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. It’s tempting to dive right in while they’re still warm but letting them cool helps them hold their shape nicely when serving.

Enjoy every last crumb of these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe! They’re sure to become a cherished favorite in your home just like they are in mine!

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 take your dessert from good to great!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, making your own puree from fresh pumpkins can enhance the flavor and make your bars even more delicious.

• Chill your butter: If you have the time, chill your melted butter slightly before mixing it with dry ingredients. This helps create a flakier crumble topping that gives the bars an irresistible texture.

• Don’t overmix the pumpkin filling: Stirring just until combined ensures a smooth and creamy filling without introducing too much air, which can alter the texture.

• Let them cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing the bars to cool thoroughly ensures they set properly and makes slicing easier.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice to your taste or add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on classic flavors.

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also look beautiful when served right! Here are some ideas to make your presentation pop.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious touch and complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top gives an inviting aroma and enhances the fall vibe.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can elevate the sweetness and add an indulgent touch that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream paired with warm bars creates a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth.
• Spiced chai tea: A cup of spiced chai tea brings out the warm spices in the bars, making for a cozy pairing perfect for chilly evenings.
• Apple cider: Hot apple cider, whether spiced or plain, complements the flavors of pumpkin perfectly and adds to the autumn atmosphere.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the richness of the bars and provide a colorful, healthy contrast on your dessert table.

Enjoy baking these scrumptious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, and don’t forget to share them with family and friends! Your kitchen will smell amazing, and everyone will be asking for seconds. Happy fall baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place the bars in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bars into individual portions.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat, place a bar on a microwave-safe plate.
• Microwave on high for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

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

Can I use pumpkin pie mix instead of pumpkin puree for this recipe?

While you could use pumpkin pie mix, it contains added spices and sugar, which may alter the flavor balance of your bars. For best results, stick with plain pumpkin puree and adjust the spices as needed.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every time?

To achieve perfect Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and bake until the top is golden brown. Letting them cool completely is also key to achieving that ideal texture!

Can I substitute the walnuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, feel free to omit them or replace them with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even seeds for a nut-free version.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring your oats are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They capture all the cozy flavors of fall and are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether it’s a festive gathering or just an afternoon treat, these bars will surely bring smiles all around. Happy baking!