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. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious fall dessert that brings joy and warmth to any occasion, you’ve come to the right place!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a good pumpkin dessert! These bars are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these bars in advance, allowing you more time to enjoy your gatherings without stress.
• Delicious Flavor: With spices like cinnamon and nutmeg paired with creamy pumpkin, each bite is bursting with fall flavors.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for potlucks, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home while watching your favorite movie.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe. Let’s gather what you 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

Optional Topping

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with it. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Use Different Nuts: Swap walnuts with pecans or leave them out if you’re nut-free.
• Mix Up the Spices: Try adding a pinch of ginger or cloves for a different spice profile.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and develop that lovely golden crust. While it’s heating up, prepare your 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare 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. It should be crumbly yet hold together when pressed gently. This crumble will create a delicious base for our bars.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Take about two-thirds of your crumble mixture and press it into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out; this forms a solid base layer that will support the creamy filling on top.

Step 4: Mix 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 mixture is where all those wonderful fall flavors come together!

Step 5: Pour Filling Over Crumble

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

Step 6: Add Topping

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the pumpkin layer. If you’re feeling adventurous or just love nuts like I do, sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pop your dish into the preheated oven! Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time—trust me!

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once baked to perfection, let them cool completely before slicing into bars. This cooling time allows everything to firm up nicely so they cut beautifully! Enjoy these warm or at room temperature—either way is delightful!

Now you’re ready to share these tasty Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars with friends and family—or keep them all to yourself (I won’t tell!). Happy baking! 🎃

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

These tips will ensure your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works great, using homemade puree from a fresh pumpkin brings a deeper flavor and richer texture to your bars.

• Chill the crumble mixture: If you let the crumble mixture sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before spreading it in your baking dish, it holds together better and creates a firmer base.

• Don’t overmix the filling: When combining the filling ingredients, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing the filling to puff up while baking.

• Test for doneness: Instead of relying solely on baking time, check that the pumpkin layer is set by gently shaking the pan; it should not jiggle excessively.

• Allow to cool completely: Letting your bars cool completely before slicing allows them to firm up, making it easier to cut neat squares without crumbling.

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

Serving Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is as delightful as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious fall treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light and fluffy texture that complements the richness of the bars.

• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each bar adds a touch of sweetness and an appealing visual element that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

• Chai tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the flavors of pumpkin pie beautifully, making it a cozy drink pairing perfect for fall gatherings.

• Apple cider: A glass of hot or cold apple cider enhances the autumnal feel and offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy bars.

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream offers a creamy and cool counterpart that balances out the warmth of the pumpkin pie crumble.

• Cranberry salad: A tart cranberry salad adds a burst of freshness, balancing out the sweetness of the bars while providing an extra touch of seasonal flair.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, get ready to impress your friends and family with these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! Enjoy every bite of this easy fall dessert recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, making them an ideal dessert for busy days or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely.
• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• To reheat, place bars in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious bars!

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

Yes! If you choose to use pumpkin pie mix, you should omit the granulated sugar and spices from the recipe since the mix is already sweetened and spiced.

How can I customize my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds. Pecans, almonds, or even chocolate chips would complement the flavors beautifully!

What makes this Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars recipe easy?

This recipe simplifies traditional pumpkin pie by combining all elements into bar form, making it easier to prepare, bake, and serve at gatherings.

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

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

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 into the center comes out clean.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They’re a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of fall with friends and family. Whether you share them at a gathering or savor them alone with your favorite hot drink, they’re sure to bring warmth and happiness. Happy baking!