Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for an easy and delightful dessert to bring warmth to your fall gatherings, look no further than these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe. This recipe is very special to me because it perfectly captures the essence of autumn with its cozy spices and creamy pumpkin layers. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want a sweet treat to enjoy while watching the leaves fall, these bars are sure to be a hit!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to share (or keep all to yourself!). Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these bars!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is simple and forgiving.
• Perfect for sharing: These bars are great for potlucks, family gatherings, or just as a treat for your loved ones.
• Deliciously flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting flavor that screams fall.
• Make ahead convenience: You can prepare them in advance and store them for those busy weeknights when you need a sweet bite.
• Customizable options: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or swap out spices according to your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars use simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need for this delicious fall dessert!

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 taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, fold in some chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling.
• Try different nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
• Use maple syrup: Substitute some of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use almond flour or gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour.

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 ensures that your bars bake evenly. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!

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 mixture will form the tasty crumble base that holds everything together.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Spread half of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly. Press it down gently with your hands or a spatula so it forms a solid base layer for your bars.

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. This creamy mixture will provide that delicious pumpkin flavor we all love!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the smooth pumpkin filling over the crumble base in your baking dish. Spread it evenly so that every bite is filled with that delightful pumpkin goodness.

Step 6: Add Topping

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the pumpkin filling. If you’d like an extra crunch and flavor boost, add chopped walnuts on top before baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma while they bake!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares. Trust me; waiting will be worth it when you take that first bite! Enjoy these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as a perfect fall treat with friends and family!

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 elevate them to perfection!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree – While canned pumpkin works well, using fresh pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and texture of your bars, making them taste homemade and delicious.

• Chill the crumble mixture – If you let the crumble mixture chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking, it helps create a firmer texture that holds up better during slicing.

• Don’t overbake – Keep an eye on your bars as they bake; removing them from the oven when the top is golden brown ensures a moist filling without any dryness.

• Let them cool completely – Allowing your bars to cool fully before slicing makes it easier to cut neat squares and enhances the overall presentation.

• Experiment with spices – Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can give your bars a unique twist that your guests will love.

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not just tasty but can also be presented beautifully for any occasion. Here are some delightful ways to serve them!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, fluffy texture that complements the richness of the pumpkin filling.
• Cinnamon dusting – Sprinkling a little cinnamon on top before serving gives an aromatic touch and an appealing visual contrast.
• Caramel drizzle – A gentle drizzle of vegan caramel sauce can take these bars to a whole new level of indulgence.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider – The warm spices in apple cider pair perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin, creating a cozy autumn experience.
• Vanilla almond milkshake – A creamy shake made with almond milk and vanilla ice cream is refreshing and balances the rich flavors of the bars.
• Simple green salad – A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.
• Roasted sweet potatoes – The natural sweetness and earthy flavor of roasted sweet potatoes complement these bars beautifully, creating a wholesome meal vibe.

Enjoy your time baking these delightful treats! Share them with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself (we won’t tell!). Happy fall baking! 🍁

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious fall treat without the hassle on busy days. They store well and can be made in advance, making them a fantastic option for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares once cooled.
• Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• Remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual bars for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you with your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars.

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them a convenient dessert option.

What can I substitute if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can create a mix using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to achieve that warm fall flavor in your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are done baking?

Your bars are ready when the top is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I add nuts or other toppings to my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch. You can also experiment with different toppings like chocolate chips or even a drizzle of caramel for extra sweetness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as I am! They capture all the cozy flavors of autumn and are perfect for sharing with friends and family—or simply enjoying all by yourself with a warm beverage. Enjoy making this easy fall dessert recipe, and may your kitchen be filled with delightful scents! Happy baking!