Fall is here, and it’s time to indulge in a sweet treat: Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! These bars combine the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin pie with a crunchy crumble topping. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and I’m here to guide you through every step. Let’s whip up these flavorful bars that are perfect for your autumn gatherings or a cozy night in. Ready to bake?
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make the perfect pumpkin pie crumble bars, you need these simple ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Equipment Needed
You will need a few tools to make these bars:
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Large mixing bowl
– Medium mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Spatula
– Wire rack
– Parchment paper (optional)
Measuring Tips
When you measure ingredients, accuracy matters. Here are some tips:
– Use dry measuring cups for flour and oats. Fill the cup, then level off with a knife.
– For brown sugar, pack it down firmly before leveling.
– For sticky ingredients like honey or molasses, spray the cup lightly with cooking oil first.
– Use a liquid measuring cup for liquids, like pumpkin puree and sweetened condensed milk. Pour until you reach the right line.
These simple steps will help ensure your pumpkin pie crumble bars turn out great every time! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing the Baking Dish
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it hot and ready. While it heats, take a 9×13 inch baking dish. You can grease it with butter or line it with parchment paper. Parchment helps with easy removal later.
Making the Crust and Crumble Mixture
In a large bowl, gather your dry ingredients. Mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Add 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Stir it all well. Then, pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until it looks crumbly. Save 1 cup of this mix for the topping.
Preparing the Pumpkin Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 large egg. Make sure it is smooth and mixed well. This will be the tasty part.
Baking and Cooling Times
Press the remaining crumble mixture into the baking dish. Bake this for about 15 minutes until it is light golden. Then, pour the pumpkin filling over the crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Next, sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture on top. If you want, add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans for extra crunch. Bake the whole thing for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is set. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Finally, dust with powdered sugar before serving if you like. For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
How to Get the Perfect Crumble Texture
To get the best crumble texture, mix the dry ingredients well. Use your hands or a fork to mix in the melted butter. You want a crumbly, not doughy, mix. Reserve a cup for the top before you press the rest into the dish. This will keep it light and flaky.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the crust. This can make it hard. Another mistake is not letting the bars cool completely before cutting. They need time to set. Also, watch your baking time. If they look too dark, you may have baked them too long.
Serving Suggestions
These bars taste great on their own. You can serve them warm or cold. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. Try them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a tasty treat. For a fun twist, drizzle caramel sauce on top. Enjoy these bars at fall gatherings or with a warm drink. Check out the Full Recipe for more details!
Variations
Adding Nuts vs. No Nuts
You can add nuts to the crumble bars for extra crunch. I love using pecans, but walnuts work well too. If you prefer a nut-free option, just skip them. The bars still taste great without nuts. They remain soft and creamy, allowing the pumpkin flavor to shine.
Using Different Spices for Flavor
While cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth, you can try other spices too. Ginger gives a nice kick, and cloves add depth. You can mix and match spices to find your favorite blend. Just remember, a little goes a long way. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste.
Gluten-Free Modification
To make these bars gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many blends work well in baking. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor. Just keep an eye on the texture. It may differ slightly, but the taste will still be delicious. For the best results, check your baking powder to ensure it’s gluten-free.
For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your pumpkin pie crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place the bars in a single layer, if possible. If you need to stack them, add parchment paper between layers. This helps avoid sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, move them to the fridge. They can last up to a week in the fridge.
Freezing Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars
Freezing is a great way to save extra bars. First, let the bars cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your pumpkin pie crumble bars, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes. This warms them through without drying them out. You can also use the microwave. Heat for 15-20 seconds, but check to avoid overheating. Enjoy the warm, cozy flavors right away! For the full recipe, visit the recipe section above.
FAQs
Can I make pumpkin pie crumble bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. They taste great after a day in the fridge. Just bake them, let them cool, and cover them tightly. You can serve them cold or warm them up slightly before serving.
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
You can use coconut milk mixed with sugar as a good substitute. Another option is to blend regular milk with sugar and a bit of cornstarch. This will give you a similar texture and sweetness.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the topping is golden brown. You can also check the filling. It should not jiggle too much when gently shaken. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pumpkin works well. You need to cook and puree the pumpkin first. Make sure to drain any excess water. This will help keep your bars from being too wet.
What are the nutrition facts for pumpkin pie crumble bars?
Each bar has about 200 calories. You get around 4 grams of protein, 30 grams of carbs, and 9 grams of fat. This varies based on added ingredients, like nuts or sugar. For the full recipe, check the details provided above.
This post covered how to make delicious pumpkin pie crumble bars. You learned the key ingredients, needed tools, and useful measuring tips. The step-by-step guide showed how to preheat your oven and prepare both the crust and filling. We shared tips for the best texture and common mistakes to avoid. You can also explore fun variations and smart storage ideas. Remember, baking should be fun and rewarding, so feel free to try new twists. Enjoy your baking journey and share these tasty bars with others!
