Name: Delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Ingredients: 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; 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)

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. These bars bring the beloved flavors of pumpkin pie into a convenient, easy-to-eat form that’s sure to delight family and friends. Not only do they offer a comforting taste of fall, but they’re also simple to make, making them an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

What’s more, these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars strike the perfect balance between sweetness and texture. The buttery crumble pairs wonderfully with the soft, spiced pumpkin filling, resulting in a decadent dessert that’s both satisfying and delightful. Whether you’re looking for a dish to impress at your next gathering, or a cozy snack to savor with your favorite cup of coffee, this recipe will hit the spot and bring a smile to your face.

Getting into the festive spirit has never been easier. With just a few ingredients and some straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious treat that embodies all that is wonderful about the fall season. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars

Perfect Texture: The combination of a buttery crumble and creamy pumpkin filling creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please your taste buds.
Seasonal Flavors: Infused with seasonal spices and pumpkin, these bars deliver the pure essence of fall in every bite.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for fall gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in at home.
Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or spices to make this recipe your own!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you embark on creating your delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space. Begin by gathering your ingredients, ensuring that you have everything measured out accurately. This not only speeds up the process but also helps in achieving the best results.

For this recipe, you’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish. If you don’t have one, any comparable size will do, just keep an eye on the baking time. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) beforehand to ensure it is at the right temperature when your bars are ready to bake. Greasing the baking dish or lining it with parchment paper is crucial—it prevents sticking and makes serving a breeze.

An electric mixer or a whisk will come in handy for combining the pumpkin filling ingredients smoothly. Lastly, a mixing bowl, measuring cups, and measuring spoons are necessary to ensure your ingredients are accurately prepared. Now that your workspace is ready and waiting, let’s push ahead!

Ingredients

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
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)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and either grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later. This step ensures that once baked, your delicious treats won’t stick to the dish.

Step 2: Make 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 with a fork or your hands until everything is well-mixed. This mixture should be crumbly and easily clumping together in your hands. Divide this mixture in half, reserving the second half for topping later.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Press half of the crumble mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s pressed down evenly across the bottom to create a solid base layer that will hold up to the creamy pumpkin filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Ensure all ingredients are combined until smooth. This mixture will be the star of your dessert, giving it that rich and creamy texture.

Step 5: Layer the Ingredients

Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over the crumbled base, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Top it off with the reserved crumble mixture, sprinkling it generously over the pumpkin layer. If you like, add chopped walnuts on top for an extra crunch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your assembled creation in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the pumpkin filling has set. You can check doneness by gently shaking the pan; if the center jiggles slightly, it may need a few extra minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pumpkin bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing them into squares. This cooling period helps the bars set, making them easier to cut. Serve these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars at room temperature, and enjoy their delightful flavor with friends and family!

Variations

Protein: Try adding a scoop of protein powder to the pumpkin filling for a nutritional boost.
Vegetables: Incorporate grated carrots or zucchini for a fun twist on flavor and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you want to enhance the flavor of your bars.

Cooking Notes

Ensure that your pumpkin puree is of high quality—fresh or canned works, but avoid the pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-seasoned.
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
If made ahead, store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Feel free to change up the nuts; pecans work beautifully with the flavors in this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars warm or at room temperature topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat that feels like fall.

Tips

Use room temperature eggs for better mixing into the pumpkin filling.
Store leftover bars in the fridge to maintain freshness; they can also be frozen for longer preservability.
If you want to brighten the flavor, add a small pinch of salt to the pumpkin filling.
When cutting the bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320 per serving
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 180mg

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, it’s best to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe, as pumpkin pie filling is pre-spiced and sweetened.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead of time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week!

How do I know when the pumpkin bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the center is set; you can check by gently shaking the pan.

What can I substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative to replace the butter in this recipe.

Conclusion

So there you have it—delicious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars that prepare you for the cheerful fall season. With their sumptuous blend of spices and creamy texture, they’re sure to be a hit this autumn. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family, and encourage them to try their own variations. Got any ideas you’d love to incorporate? Share your thoughts in the comments! Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking and enjoy these delightful bars together!