Get ready to enjoy fall with my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! These tasty treats bring together velvety pumpkin, warm spices, and a crunchy crumble topping. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, this easy recipe will delight your taste buds. Let me guide you through the steps to create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
– ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
– ½ cup rolled oats
– ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
– ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice
When making pumpkin pie crumble bars, the ingredients matter. Each one plays a key role in flavor and texture. The flour gives the base structure. Brown sugar adds rich taste. Granulated sugar balances sweetness. Baking powder helps the bars rise. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger give warmth and depth.
The unsalted butter, when melted, binds everything. The egg adds moisture and helps set the bars. Pure pumpkin puree, the star of the show, makes them creamy and delicious. Sweetened condensed milk adds richness and a slight sweetness.
Rolled oats add crunch to the crumble topping. If you like, pecans give a nice nutty flavor. Pumpkin spice blends all the fall flavors together.
Tools Needed
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Baking dish (8×8 inch)
– Parchment paper (optional)
– Wire rack
Gather your tools before you start. Mixing bowls help combine ingredients easily. A whisk is great for blending. An 8×8 inch baking dish holds the bars perfectly. Parchment paper makes for easy removal and cleanup. A wire rack cools the bars evenly.
With these ingredients and tools, you are set to make your pumpkin pie crumble bars. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease or line the baking dish.
Start by getting your oven nice and warm. This helps the bars bake evenly. Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper. This makes removal easy later.
Mixing the Base
– Combine dry ingredients for the crust.
– Add melted butter and egg to form a dough.
In a medium bowl, mix the dry ingredients. This includes flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed. Then, pour in the melted butter and crack in the egg. Mix until you have a crumbly dough. Set aside about 1 cup of this mixture for the topping.
Assembling the Bars
– Press base dough into the baking dish.
– Prepare pumpkin filling and spread over the crust.
– Add crumble topping and bake.
Take the leftover dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your baking dish. This forms a solid base. In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, ginger, and pumpkin spice. Stir until smooth. Spread this creamy filling over your crust. Next, take the reserved dough and mix it with rolled oats and optional pecans. Sprinkle this mixture over the pumpkin layer. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
For the full recipe, check the instructions again. Enjoy making these delicious bars!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
Using room temperature ingredients is key. Cold butter and eggs can make the dough tough. Let your butter and egg sit out for about 30 minutes. This helps blend them well.
To avoid a soggy crust, make sure to press the dough firmly into the dish. Bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the pumpkin filling. This helps set it first, so it stays crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation makes a big difference. Dust the bars lightly with powdered sugar. A dollop of whipped cream on the side adds a nice touch. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or add toasted pecans on top for a fall vibe.
These bars pair well with vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee. They make a great treat after dinner or for a cozy gathering.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the dough. This can toughen the bars, making them chewy instead of tender. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
Another mistake is cutting the bars too soon. Let them cool completely in the dish. If you cut them while warm, they may crumble and fall apart. For the best results, patience is key!
For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
You can easily make these bars gluten-free. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a mix that includes xanthan gum. It helps bind the ingredients and keeps the bars from crumbling. Some good choices are almond flour or coconut flour. Both will add a nice flavor too.
Flavor Customizations
Feel free to get creative with the flavors. Adding chocolate chips can make these bars even more special. Dark chocolate or white chocolate chips work great. You can also try different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for extra crunch. For a unique twist, mix in spices like cardamom or allspice. They will add depth and warmth to the bars.
Vegan Adaptations
Making these bars vegan is simple too. Replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed mix. Just mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For the butter, use coconut oil or vegan butter. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats!
For the full recipe, check out the original.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store
You can store pumpkin pie crumble bars at room temperature or in the fridge. If you plan to eat them within two days, room temperature works well. Just place them in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge. They will keep fresh for about a week in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze pumpkin pie crumble bars, first, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into individual bars. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, simply remove a bar from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.
Shelf Life
Pumpkin pie crumble bars can last up to one week in the fridge. If stored at room temperature, they are best enjoyed within two days. If you freeze them, they maintain their quality for about three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
FAQs
How long do pumpkin pie crumble bars take to bake?
Pumpkin pie crumble bars bake in 30 to 35 minutes. Check them at 30 minutes. The top should be golden brown. You can also test doneness by gently shaking the pan. If the filling jiggles slightly, it’s ready. If it shakes a lot, leave it in for a few more minutes.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. Prepare them up to a day in advance. After baking, let them cool completely. Then, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the fridge. This will keep them fresh and tasty.
How do I know when they are fully set?
To check if the bars are fully set, look for a slight jiggle. The filling should not be watery. You can also insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done. Let them cool before slicing for the best texture.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
You can definitely use fresh pumpkin. To do this, you need to roast or steam it first. Once soft, blend the pumpkin until smooth. Measure out one cup for this recipe. Fresh pumpkin may have a lighter flavor, so adjust spices to taste.
We covered how to make delicious pumpkin pie crumble bars. You now know the main ingredients, tools needed, and step-by-step instructions. We also discussed texture tips and common mistakes to avoid. Remember, your fun variations can make this recipe your own. Store the bars properly for longer enjoyment. Enjoy baking and sharing these tasty treats. With a little practice, you’ll impress everyone with your skills. Happy baking!
