Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for a sweet treat that embodies the spirit of fall, you’ve come to the right place. These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe are not just delicious; they remind me of cozy afternoons spent with loved ones. The combination of warm spices and creamy pumpkin filling, topped with a crunchy oat crumble, makes them an instant favorite. They are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings and can easily be made ahead of time. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has a special place in my heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will devour these bars—perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week; they store beautifully!
• Delicious Flavor: The rich blend of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting taste that screams fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a breeze! You’ll find that they are all simple, wholesome items you likely have on hand or can easily pick up from your local grocery store.

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

One of the joys of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle some dairy-free chocolate chips into the filling for a rich twist.
• Swap Nuts for Seeds: If you prefer nuts-free bars, try using sunflower seeds instead for some added crunch.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with cinnamon and nutmeg if you want to change the flavor profile a bit.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a delightful gluten-free option.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your bars bake evenly. While it’s heating up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper so that your bars don’t stick.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is well combined. This mixture will form both your crust and topping—a deliciously crunchy layer!

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out; this forms a sturdy base for your creamy pumpkin filling.

Step 4: Prepare 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 brings all those wonderful fall flavors together—it’s going to be so good!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the pumpkin filling over the crumble base in your baking dish. Spread it evenly to cover every inch—this ensures each bite is filled with creamy goodness!

Step 6: Add More Crumble

Take the remaining crumble mixture and sprinkle it on top of your pumpkin filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss some chopped walnuts on top for an extra layer of flavor and crunch!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling looks set. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth—it’s pure bliss!

Step 8: Cool Down Before Serving

Once baked, allow your bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. This step is crucial as it helps everything set nicely so you can enjoy perfect slices when serving!

Now you’re all set to create these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! Enjoy every last crumb!

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 elevate them to perfection!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, using freshly roasted pumpkin can enhance the flavor and provide a richer texture.
• Chill the crumble mixture: If you let the crumble mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking, it will create a firmer topping that holds together better.
• Check for doneness: Since ovens can vary, keep an eye on your bars. They should be golden brown on top and slightly set in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out clean!
• Add spices to taste: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cinnamon can make your bars even more aromatic.
• Store correctly: To keep your bars fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

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 them beautifully at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious and creamy touch while keeping things dairy-free.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: Lightly dusting with cinnamon right before serving gives an extra hint of spice that enhances the fall flavors.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint can add a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the bars.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla almond milk: This creamy beverage pairs perfectly with the spiced flavors of pumpkin while being a refreshing complement.
• Apple cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider makes for a cozy pairing that embodies the essence of fall.
• Roasted root vegetables: A side of lightly seasoned roasted carrots and sweet potatoes creates a savory contrast to the sweetness of your dessert.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars will be sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite and embrace the wonderful flavors of fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep. You can easily make them ahead of time, ensuring you have a sweet treat ready for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the fridge where they will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual portions before freezing for easier serving later.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Yes! You can substitute pumpkin pie mix, but reduce the added sugars and spices since they are already included in the mix.

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

To make these bars gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. The rest of the ingredients can remain the same.

What should I serve with my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with whipped coconut cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They’re a beautiful way to embrace fall flavors and share joy with friends and family. Enjoy every bite, and let this recipe become a cherished part of your autumn traditions. Happy baking!