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.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and straightforward, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, spices, and oats creates a rich flavor that embodies fall.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these bars as a dessert or enjoy them as a snack with coffee or tea.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Great for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings; everyone will love them!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these bars in advance and store them for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, it’s important to gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for even baking of your crumble bars, ensuring they cook through properly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess in your kitchen.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for the pumpkin filling by thoroughly mixing all ingredients.
• Spatula: Ideal for spreading the crumble mixture evenly in the baking dish.

Ingredients

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

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.

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.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Press half of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly spread to form the base layer.

Step 4: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In a separate bowl:
* Whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the pumpkin filling over the crumble base, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.

Step 6: Top It Off

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the pumpkin filling. If desired, add chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars!

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are deliciously versatile, making them perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a generous dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and sweetness.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the pumpkin.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• These bars make an excellent accompaniment to your favorite warm beverage, providing a cozy treat during cool autumn days.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Fresh slices of apple or pear can add a refreshing crunch and balance out the richness of the bars.

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

To ensure your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple yet effective tips.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: For the best flavor, opt for homemade pumpkin puree or high-quality canned options without additives.
• Chill the butter: If you’re using cold unsalted butter, chilling it before melting can help achieve a crumbly texture in your crust.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough bars. A few lumps in the batter are okay!
• Test doneness carefully: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool ensures they set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

For an even more enjoyable experience, consider pairing these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars with some delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink pairs beautifully with the spices in the bars, enhancing their flavors.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: A fresh salad with roasted squash adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.
3. Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots provide an earthy side that complements fall flavors well.
4. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the bars and adds a festive touch.
5. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potatoes bring another layer of flavor that harmonizes well with pumpkin.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses offers a savory option that contrasts nicely with sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Not preheating your oven properly can lead to uneven baking. Always ensure your oven is at the correct temperature before placing your bars inside.
• Overmixing the crumble: Mixing the crumble too much can make it tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a perfect texture.
• Skipping parchment paper: Not lining your baking dish can lead to difficulties in removing the bars later. Always use parchment paper or grease the dish thoroughly.
• Underbaking: Cutting into the bars too soon may result in a gooey center. Ensure they are baked until set and golden brown on top.
• Ignoring cooling time: Serving the bars while they are still warm can lead to messy portions. Allow them to cool completely for clean slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about these delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just cook and puree it until smooth, ensuring you have about 2 cups for this recipe.

How do I customize my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Feel free to add different nuts or spices according to your taste. Pecans or almonds work great as substitutes for walnuts.

What should I serve with Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve them.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not just an easy fall dessert; they are versatile enough to impress at any gathering! With their delightful combination of flavors and textures, you can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!