Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for a sweet treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place. These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe are a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin filling, warm spices, and a crunchy oat topping. What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these bars have earned a special place in my heart!

Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or just want to enjoy some autumn bliss with your morning coffee, these bars will not disappoint. They are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in no time! The simple steps make it approachable for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Packed with pumpkin and spices, each bite is like a hug from fall itself.
• Family-Friendly Treat: Kids and adults alike will love these bars! They’re perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them ahead of time and store them in the fridge; they taste even better the next day!
• Flexible Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or toppings to make them uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a breeze! They are all simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at 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
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips for an extra sweet twist.
• Try Different Nuts: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for added crunch.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter for a vegan version.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for an unexpected kick!

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) and prepare your 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your bars bake evenly and don’t stick!

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 will form your crumble base that provides texture and flavor.

Step 3: Create the Base Layer

Press half of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out; this will form a solid base layer that holds everything together.

Step 4: Make 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. Mixing these ingredients creates a rich filling that complements the crumble beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the pumpkin filling over the crumble base and spread it evenly across the surface. This ensures every bite gets that luscious pumpkin goodness.

Step 6: Top It Off

Sprinkle remaining crumble mixture over the top of the filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, add chopped walnuts on top for extra crunch!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. This helps them set up nicely so they hold their shape when served.

Now you’re ready to dig into these delicious bars! Enjoy every bite as you savor this easy fall dessert recipe with family and friends. Happy baking!

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 ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works great, using homemade puree can enhance the flavor and freshness of your bars.

• Chill the butter: If your butter is too warm when mixed with the dry ingredients, it can make the crumble too greasy. Chilling it helps achieve that ideal crumbly texture.

• Don’t skip the cooling: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing will help them set properly and keep their shape when served.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice to your taste or add additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick.

• Make ahead of time: These bars store well in the fridge, making them perfect for prepping a day in advance for gatherings or family get-togethers.

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 ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a lovely creamy texture and enhances the sweetness of the bars.

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon over the top adds a beautiful finish and reinforces that cozy autumn flavor.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: The spiced warmth of apple cider complements the flavors in your crumble bars and creates a comforting fall beverage pairing.

• Vanilla ice cream alternative: Serving with dairy-free vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast, making each bite even more delightful.

• Autumn salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and nuts brings a bright, crisp element that balances the sweetness of the bars beautifully.

• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness and earthiness of roasted sweet potatoes make for a hearty side dish that pairs wonderfully with these dessert bars.

Enjoy sharing these delectable Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars with friends and family this fall! 🍁

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place 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 individual portions.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• To warm them up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a single bar for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

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

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

Yes, you can substitute pumpkin pie filling for pumpkin puree. However, reduce the sugar in the recipe as pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced.

How do I make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars more nutritious?

To boost the nutritional value, consider substituting whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour and adding seeds or dried fruits along with the walnuts.

How long will Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars last?

If stored properly, these bars will last about 3 days at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I customize the toppings on my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can add chopped pecans or coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you fall in love with these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I have! They’re not just an easy fall dessert recipe; they’re a way to gather loved ones around the table and share a taste of autumn. Enjoy making this delightful treat, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Happy baking!