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 will impress your friends and family, you’ve found it! These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings.

Every bite brings a taste of autumn, and you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!). I love how simple they are to make — perfect for any home cook or novice baker. Let’s dive into why these bars are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up these delicious bars. The straightforward steps make it accessible for everyone.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this dessert! It’s a wonderful way to get everyone excited about pumpkin-flavored treats.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a large gathering with friends, these bars fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare them in advance and store them for up to several days. Just slice and serve when you’re ready!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and oats creates a comforting flavor that screams fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Gather these goodies for a delightful baking experience!

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Chocolate: Stir in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite!
• Switch Up the Nuts: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts if you prefer.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce and use vegan butter.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with extra spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an even warmer flavor profile.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. Preheating ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

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.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly. This forms a sturdy base layer that will hold your delicious pumpkin filling on top.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, remaining brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step is crucial as it blends all those warm flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Filling

Pour this luscious pumpkin mixture over the crumble base. Spread it evenly so every bite has that delightful pumpkin goodness in it.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Crumble

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the filling. If desired, add chopped walnuts for extra crunch! This topping creates a wonderful texture contrast with the creamy filling.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen fills with that amazing aroma!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. This will help them set up nicely so you can enjoy clean slices full of flavor!

And there you have it — easy Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars ready to share (or keep all to yourself!). Enjoy this sweet taste of fall!

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

These tips will help you make the perfect Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars that everyone will love!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree – While canned pumpkin works, using fresh puree can enhance the flavor and texture of your bars, giving them a homemade taste that’s hard to beat.

• Chill the crumble mixture – If your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the crumble mixture before baking. This helps maintain its texture and ensures a delightfully crunchy topping.

• Don’t overmix the filling – When combining your pumpkin filling ingredients, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles, which may cause cracks in your bars as they bake.

• Let them cool completely – Allowing your bars to cool fully before slicing helps them set properly, making it easier to cut clean pieces that hold their shape.

• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust or add spices according to your taste. A touch of nutmeg or cloves can add depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.

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

Presenting these delightful bars beautifully can elevate your fall gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy finish, complementing the pumpkin flavors wonderfully.
• Caramel drizzle – Drizzling some vegan caramel sauce over the bars not only looks stunning but also adds a sweet contrast to the spiced pumpkin filling.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider – A warm cup of spiced apple cider pairs perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin, creating a cozy autumn experience.
• Vanilla non-dairy ice cream – The creamy texture of vanilla non-dairy ice cream balances out the crunchiness of the bars while adding a refreshing element.
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette – A light salad provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the bars, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Herbal tea – A warm cup of herbal tea enhances the relaxing atmosphere while complementing the spices in your dessert beautifully.

Enjoy these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as part of your fall festivities! They are sure to become a seasonal favorite for you and your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for a delicious treat whenever you’re craving something sweet.

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, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares and let them cool completely.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If frozen, allow the bars to thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• For an oven option, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars.

Can I use pumpkin pie mix instead of pumpkin puree?

You can certainly use pumpkin pie mix if you prefer! Just remember to reduce or eliminate any additional sugar and spices since pumpkin pie mix is already sweetened and spiced.

Are Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars an easy fall dessert recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, making it perfect for anyone looking to whip up a delicious fall treat without fuss.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

You can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds as an egg substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, let it sit until it thickens, then add it to your mixture.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring that your oats are certified gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They embody all the cozy flavors of fall and are sure to be a hit at any gathering or just as a special treat at home. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or variations; this recipe is versatile and made with love. Happy baking!