Fall has arrived, and it’s time to celebrate with something sweet! If you love pumpkin, you’ll adore these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars. They combine the rich flavors of pumpkin pie with a delightful crumble topping. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients and easy steps to create this irresistible treat!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
When making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars, I always measure my ingredients carefully. Accurate measuring ensures each bite is just right. Here are some tips for great results:
Measuring and Substitutions
– Tips for accurate measurements: Use dry measuring cups for flour and oats. Level off the top with a flat edge. For sticky items like sugar, pack it firmly to get the right amount.
– Common ingredient substitutions: If you run out of brown sugar, you can mix granulated sugar with a bit of molasses. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut milk in place of sweetened condensed milk. You can swap the butter for coconut oil as well.
For the full recipe, refer to the section above. Enjoy crafting this delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating and preparing the baking pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to perfect baking. Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the bars out later.
2. Making the crust mixture
In a medium bowl, mix together the following dry ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Stir well to blend the flavors. Next, add in 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter. Mix until it looks crumbly. Reserve about 1/2 cup of this mixture for the topping. Press the rest into the bottom of the baking pan to form the crust.
3. Preparing the pumpkin filling
In another bowl, whisk together these ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
Whisk until smooth. This filling is rich and creamy.
Baking Process
1. Pouring and spreading the filling
Pour the pumpkin filling over the crust in the baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This ensures every bite has that delicious pumpkin flavor.
2. Crumbling the topping mixture
Take the reserved crust mixture and crumble it over the pumpkin filling. If you want more crunch, sprinkle 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
3. Baking time and checking doneness
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by looking for golden edges and a set center. The bars should not jiggle when you shake the pan.
Enjoy these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as a cozy fall treat! For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars
To get a crunchy topping, use cold butter. Cut it into your dry mix until crumbly. The mix should look like wet sand. For extra crunch, add chopped nuts to the topping.
For a smooth filling, always whisk the pumpkin and milk well. This helps avoid lumps. Use room temperature ingredients for best results. It makes mixing easier and the filling creamier.
Serving Suggestions
To make your bars look great, dust them with powdered sugar. Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side. A sprinkle of cinnamon or some pecans adds a nice touch.
Pair these delicious bars with a warm drink. Apple cider or a spiced latte works well. You can also serve them with vanilla ice cream for a treat.
For the full recipe, check the ingredients and steps above. Enjoy your baking!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can add fun twists to your pumpkin pie crumble bars. One easy way is to mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit. Chocolate chips give a sweet burst, while dried fruit adds chewiness. These flavors blend well with pumpkin.
You can also switch up the spices. If you like more warmth, try adding ginger or allspice. These spices bring a new depth to the filling. You can even experiment with citrus zest. A bit of lemon or orange zest can brighten the flavors.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, swap all-purpose flour for almond or oat flour. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. This keeps the bars tasty and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
For vegan adaptations, use a flax egg instead of a real egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. You can also replace sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk or cashew cream. These swaps keep the bars creamy and delicious.
If you’re interested in the full recipe, you can find it [here](#).
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your pumpkin pie crumble bars fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This will keep them tasty for about five days. If you want to enjoy them for longer, freeze the bars. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat them, simply defrost them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating these bars is easy, and it helps keep their texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This warms them without making them soggy. If you prefer the microwave, heat one bar at a time. Use medium power for about 20 to 30 seconds. This way, they stay soft and delicious. Enjoy your pumpkin pie crumble bars warm!
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
You can check this by looking at the edges. They should be golden brown. The center must be set and not jiggly. A toothpick test works well too. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the bars are ready.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They taste great chilled or at room temperature too.
How should I cut and serve the bars?
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife for clean edges. Serve them plain or with whipped cream. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch too.
Additional Inquiries
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
You can use coconut milk or almond milk mixed with sugar. Another option is to make your own by simmering milk and sugar until thickened.
Is it possible to double the recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, you can double the recipe easily. Just use a larger baking pan. Make sure to adjust the baking time as needed. Check for doneness as mentioned earlier.
This article covered making delicious pumpkin pie crumble bars. We looked at the key ingredients, how to measure, and useful substitutions. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation and baking. Tips for a crunchy topping and serving ideas add fun to the process. Variations let you explore flavors, while storage techniques keep your bars fresh.
Now you can enjoy these bars anytime! Happy baking.
