Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for a cozy and delightful treat this fall, then these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe are just what you need. This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it perfectly marries the flavors of creamy pumpkin and warm spices, all topped with a crunchy oat crumble. It’s not only incredibly delicious but also so easy to make! Whether you are hosting friends for a casual gathering or just want to whip up something special for your family on a busy weeknight, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes these bars even more special is how versatile they are. You can serve them warm out of the oven with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or enjoy them cold right from the fridge. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds)!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can have these delicious bars ready to bake in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet pumpkin flavor and crunchy topping!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These bars are great for potlucks, holidays, or even as an after-school snack.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week—if they last that long!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices and pumpkin creates a warm, inviting taste that screams fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars. You probably have many of them in your pantry already!

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! Feel free to get creative with flavors and textures. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the filling.
• Use different nuts: Swap out walnuts for pecans or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs.

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 will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, packed brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Then pour in the melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed; this will create your delicious crumble mixture. The melted butter helps bind everything together while creating that irresistible crunchy texture.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Take about two-thirds of your crumble mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. This forms a sturdy base layer that will hold up under the creamy pumpkin filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, whisk together your pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, remaining brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step is essential as it combines all those wonderful flavors into a rich filling that complements the crumble beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Pour the pumpkin filling over your crumble base in an even layer. Spread it gently with a spatula so every bite has that lovely pumpkin goodness.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Sprinkle any remaining crumble mixture on top of the filling. If you’re using walnuts, now is the time to sprinkle those on too! This adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. Keep an eye on them—your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. This helps them set up nicely so they don’t fall apart when you serve them. Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as a perfect fall dessert!

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

Making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a breeze, but a few simple tips can take your baking game to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and pumpkin puree to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the batter, creating an even texture throughout.

• Don’t skip the chilling: If you have time, let the crumble mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This will result in a firmer, crunchier topping that holds its shape beautifully.

• Check for doneness: The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the pumpkin filling no longer jiggles in the center. An overcooked filling can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on them!

• Cut with a sharp knife: Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice your bars. This will give you clean edges and make serving easier.

• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well, so feel free to stash some away for later!

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

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars not only taste amazing but also look beautiful when presented right. Here are some delightful ways to serve them!

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and fluffy sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

• Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top just before serving gives an extra touch of warmth and sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Hot Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider pairs wonderfully with these bars, enhancing the autumn flavors and creating a cozy atmosphere.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving these bars with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast that balances out the warm spices.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pears and apples provides a bright counterpoint to the richness of the bars.

• Coffee or Tea: Enjoying these bars alongside your favorite hot beverage makes for a perfect afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars—it’s sure to become a beloved fall tradition!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and store them, ensuring you have a sweet treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place the bars in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bars before freezing for easy access later.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For quick warming, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful dessert bars!

Can I use pumpkin pie mix instead of pumpkin puree for the Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

While you can use pumpkin pie mix, it typically contains added sugars and spices. If you prefer a classic flavor, stick with plain pumpkin puree and adjust spices and sugars as needed.

How do I make these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free as well.

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars without eggs?

Absolutely! You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) or use applesauce as a binder.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They bring the warmth and flavors of fall right into your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them at gatherings or savoring them at home, they are sure to delight everyone. Happy baking, and may your season be filled with joy and delicious treats!