Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars Recipe

Introduction

Nothing says fall quite like the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin pie, and these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars take that classic taste to a whole new level. Combining the creamy richness of pumpkin filling with a buttery, crumbly topping, this easy pumpkin dessert is ideal for cozy autumn evenings, holiday gatherings, or just when you’re craving a seasonal treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers a delightful balance of simplicity and indulgence that will impress everyone at the table.

Growing up, fall always meant the aroma of spiced desserts wafting through the house, and pumpkin was the star of the season. I’ve taken those nostalgic flavors and transformed them into portable, shareable bars that are just as satisfying as a traditional pie but with a fun, modern twist. These pumpkin pie bars are perfect for potlucks, Thanksgiving feasts, or even as a quick snack with a cup of coffee on a chilly day.

What makes this recipe stand out is the irresistible contrast of textures – a crisp, golden crumble paired with a silky pumpkin layer. If you’re looking for fall desserts easy enough to whip up without stress but impressive enough to steal the show, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into how to make these delectable treats!

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 bars

What You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars requires a handful of key ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving the ideal flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component matters:

• Flour: Forms the base of both the crust and the crumble topping, providing structure and a tender bite.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create that flaky, crumbly texture in the topping and base.
• Sugar: Sweetens the crust and crumble while balancing the natural earthiness of the pumpkin.
• Pumpkin Puree: The heart of this dessert, delivering that signature fall flavor and creamy consistency.
• Eggs: Bind the pumpkin filling together, ensuring a smooth, custardy texture.
• Spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves brings warmth and depth, mimicking classic pumpkin pie seasoning.
• Evaporated Milk: Enhances the creaminess of the filling without making it too heavy.

INGREDIENTS

• – 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for crust and crumble)
• – 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for crust and crumble)
• – 1/4 cup brown sugar (for crumble)
• – 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• – 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• – 2 large eggs
• – 3/4 cup evaporated milk
• – 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• – 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• – 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• – 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• – 1/2 tsp salt

PREPARATION

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the 3/4 cup cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Reserve 3/4 cup of this mixture for the crumble topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
4. While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 15 oz pumpkin puree, 2 eggs, 3/4 cup evaporated milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp cloves, and 1/2 tsp salt until smooth.
5. Pour the pumpkin filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Add 1/4 cup brown sugar to the reserved crumble mixture and mix well. Sprinkle this over the pumpkin layer evenly.
7. Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and the crumble topping is golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for about 2 hours before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories per serving: 280
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 150mg

Why Choose Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars Over Traditional Pie?

While traditional pumpkin pie holds a special place in many hearts, these pumpkin pie bars offer a few advantages. They’re easier to serve at gatherings since they’re already portioned, and the crumble topping adds a delightful crunch that pie crust can’t match. Plus, they’re less intimidating for beginner bakers as there’s no need to fuss with rolling out dough.

Customizing Your Crumble Bars

One of the joys of making crumble bars is how adaptable they are. Swap in gluten-free flour for a dietary-friendly version, or add chopped pecans to the topping for extra texture. You can even drizzle with caramel sauce for a decadent touch that elevates this easy pumpkin dessert to a whole new level.

Best Occasions for Serving Pumpkin Treats

These bars shine as Thanksgiving desserts, offering a fresh take on the classic pie that guests will rave about. They’re also perfect for fall bake sales, cozy family dinners, or as a sweet addition to a Halloween party spread. Their portability makes them a go-to for any autumn event.

Tips for Perfect Crumble Texture

Achieving that ideal pie crumble texture comes down to keeping your butter cold until it’s time to mix. This ensures the topping bakes into crisp, golden clusters rather than melting into the filling. Also, don’t overmix – those coarse crumbs are what give the bars their signature crunch.

Storing and Freezing Your Bars

To keep your pumpkin cheesecake bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Pairing Suggestions for Fall Desserts

Elevate your fall desserts easy experience by serving these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair them with a hot cup of spiced apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate autumn indulgence that warms you from the inside out.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin for your pumpkin cheesecake recipes, simply roast and puree your own. You’ll need about 1 3/4 cups of fresh puree to replace a 15 oz can. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the texture of your bars.

How Do I Know When the Bars Are Done Baking?

Your pumpkin pie crumble bars are ready when the center is set and doesn’t jiggle excessively. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out mostly clean, and the crumble topping should be a deep golden brown. If unsure, give it an extra 5 minutes and check again.

Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?

Yes, these pumpkin treat bars are a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Bake them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the fridge. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

What If I Don’t Have Evaporated Milk?

If you’re out of evaporated milk, you can substitute with heavy cream or even whole milk in a pinch for your pumpkin pie bars. Keep in mind that the filling might be slightly less rich, but it will still set nicely and taste delicious.