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 Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it perfect for any home cook.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin puree and spices creates a mouth-watering flavor that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply enjoying at home with friends.
• Crunchy Topping: The oat crumble adds a delightful texture that complements the smooth pumpkin filling beautifully.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be baked in advance and stored, making them a convenient choice for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is ideal for evenly baking your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep ingredients organized while mixing the crumble and filling separately.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth consistency when blending the pumpkin filling ingredients.
• Spatula: Useful 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
• 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:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon 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:
– 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

Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

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

Step 6: Add Topping

Sprinkle remaining crumble mixture over the pumpkin layer. If desired, sprinkle 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 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 delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few creative touches. Here are some ideas to make these bars even more enjoyable.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast to the spiced pumpkin filling.

Serve with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream makes an indulgent pairing that complements the warm spices.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness and richness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• These bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for an afternoon treat.

Top with Nuts

• Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts or pecans on top before serving for added crunch and flavor.

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

To ensure your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Homemade pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor significantly compared to canned options.

• Chill the Dough: If you find it hard to handle the crumble mixture, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before pressing into the pan.

• Check Baking Time: Ovens vary; start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely helps them set better and makes slicing easier.

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

While these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are delicious on their own, they can be complemented by several side dishes. Consider adding one or more of these options to your dessert table.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider offers a cozy drink that pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors.

2. Vanilla Yogurt: A side of creamy vanilla yogurt provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet bars.

3. Cinnamon Roasted Nuts: Crunchy nuts coated in cinnamon add a savory element that balances out the dessert’s sweetness.

4. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can lighten up your dessert spread with its vibrant colors and natural sweetness.

5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses that complement sweet flavors, such as brie or cream cheese, for a unique twist.

6. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea echo those in the bars, creating a harmonious pairing that’s perfect for autumn gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the greasing step: Always grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This ensures that your bars come out easily and do not stick.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements. This helps maintain the balance of flavors and textures in your dessert.

• Overmixing the crumble mixture: Mix just until combined when making the crumble. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light, crumbly topping.

• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner slices.

• Using expired spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly. Always check the expiration dates on your pumpkin pie spice and other spices for optimal taste.

• Forgetting optional ingredients: Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. They can elevate your bars from good to great!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• 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 bars for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for about 30 seconds on high; adjust time as necessary.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars:

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

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until serving.

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

You can mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice as an alternative to pumpkin pie spice.

Are there any variations for this Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars recipe?

Feel free to add chocolate chips or different nuts like pecans or almonds for unique twists on flavor!

How should I serve my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Their warm flavors capture the essence of fall, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this easy recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!