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 – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe. They blend warm spices and creamy pumpkin with a crunchy oat topping. These bars are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy treat with coffee. Their delightful mix of flavors and textures makes them a standout choice for any fall occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and requires minimal prep time, making it great for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spice, and oats creates an irresistible taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy night in—all while satisfying your pumpkin cravings.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored, allowing you to enjoy them whenever you like.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel to make them uniquely yours.

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Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for an enjoyable baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for evenly cooking the bars while providing ample space for your delicious filling.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep ingredients organized and ensures proper mixing without cross-contamination.
• Whisk: A whisk efficiently blends wet ingredients without leaving lumps—essential for a smooth pumpkin mixture.

Ingredients

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)

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, 1 cup of 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 evenly to create a solid base layer.

Step 4: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In a separate bowl:
Whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

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

Step 6: Add Toppings

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

Step 7: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

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

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to elevate your dessert experience or simply enjoy them as they are, these serving suggestions will make your fall gathering even more special.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that balances the richness of the pumpkin bars.

Add Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top of the warm bars creates a delicious contrast that’s hard to resist.

Drizzle Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the flavor profile and adds a sweet touch that complements the spices in the bars.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying these bars with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea is perfect for an afternoon treat or cozy evening dessert.

Garnish with Nuts

• Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top not only add crunch but also enhance the nutty flavors in the bars.

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

To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, consider the following tips. These will help ensure that your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Using fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned can elevate the flavor and texture of your bars.

• Chill Your Butter: If you want a flakier crumble, chill your melted butter before mixing it into the dry ingredients.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your crumble topping from becoming tough; it should remain crumbly.

• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked. This ensures a perfectly set filling.

• Allow to Cool Completely: Letting the bars cool completely before slicing helps maintain their shape and makes for cleaner cuts.

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that enhance their autumn flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider complements the flavors in pumpkin and sets a cozy tone.

2. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.

3. Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp and creamy cheeses offers a savory balance, making each bite more interesting.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with pumpkin while adding seasonal flair.

5. Fall Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens, roasted nuts, and apples brings freshness to your dessert spread.

6. Pumpkin Soup: For true pumpkin lovers, serving soup as an appetizer sets up a delightful theme for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, it’s easy to run into some common issues. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking dish can lead to bars that stick. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Overmixing the crumble: Mixing too much can make the topping tough. Just combine until ingredients are moistened for a crumbly texture.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting the bars before they cool can result in messy slices. Let them cool completely for the best presentation.
• Using canned pumpkin pie filling: This recipe calls for pure pumpkin puree, not pre-seasoned filling, to control flavor and sweetness.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure ingredient ratios are correct.

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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 fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These bars 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 bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm each bar on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin. Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your bars.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

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

How should I store leftover bars?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for future enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices. They bring the warmth of fall into every bite, making them perfect for any gathering or cozy evening at home. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe and delight your loved ones!