Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel

Name: Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel: A Must-Try Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Posted on September 17, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of fall. That’s where these delightful Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel come in! They’re not just a treat; they’re a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With a creamy pumpkin filling and a crunchy streusel topping, these bars are perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your fall baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel

These Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 15 minutes of prep time. The taste? Oh, it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day! With a perfect balance of creamy pumpkin and crunchy streusel, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of fall!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your crust, giving it structure and a delightful texture.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the crust, enhancing the overall flavor.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter brings moisture and richness to the crust, making it perfectly crumbly.
Pumpkin puree: The star of the show! It provides that classic pumpkin flavor and creamy texture.
Granulated sugar: Balances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, ensuring a delightful taste.
Large eggs: These help bind the filling together, giving it a smooth consistency.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth and warmth to the pumpkin filling.
Ground cinnamon: This spice brings a cozy, aromatic flavor that screams fall.
Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch adds a warm, nutty essence that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Ground ginger: A hint of ginger gives a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Salt: A small amount enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
Rolled oats: These are used in the streusel topping, adding a chewy texture and nutty flavor.
Chopped pecans (optional): If you love a bit of crunch, toss in some pecans for added flavor and texture.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×9 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use cooking spray or a little melted butter to ensure nothing sticks. This step is crucial because nobody wants to wrestle with their delicious bars later! Trust me, a well-prepared pan makes all the difference. Once your oven is ready, you’ll be all set to create a cozy fall treat!

Step 2: Make the Crust

Now, let’s whip up the crust! In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This is where the magic begins! Once it’s well combined, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Make sure it’s even, as this will be the foundation for your Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel. It’s like building a cozy little home for that creamy pumpkin filling!

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Pop that crust into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. You want it to be lightly golden and set. This initial baking step helps create a sturdy base for the pumpkin filling. While it bakes, you can start dreaming about how delicious your kitchen will smell!

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

While the crust is baking, let’s focus on the star of the show: the pumpkin filling! In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined. This is where the flavors come together, creating that rich, creamy filling we all love. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste—go ahead, I won’t tell!

Step 5: Combine and Pour

Once your crust is baked and slightly cooled, it’s time to pour that luscious pumpkin mixture over it. Spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring every corner is covered. This is where the magic happens, as the filling will bake into the crust, creating a delightful harmony of flavors!

Step 6: Make the Streusel Topping

Now, let’s make that crunchy streusel topping! In a clean bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly, and if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped pecans for an extra crunch. This topping is like the cherry on top of your fall dessert! It adds texture and a delightful contrast to the creamy pumpkin filling. Sprinkle it generously over the pumpkin layer, making sure to cover it all.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your home will be irresistible, and your family will be eagerly waiting for a taste!

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. This is the hardest part—waiting! Once cooled, cut into bars and serve. You can enjoy them as is or add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Trust me, these Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel will be the highlight of your fall gatherings!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature eggs for a smoother filling.
Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars set properly.
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste; add more cinnamon or nutmeg if you love those flavors!
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

9×9 inch baking pan: A square pan is perfect, but you can use an 8×8 inch pan if that’s what you have.
Mixing bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will do the trick for mixing crust and filling.
Whisk: A whisk is great for blending the filling, but a fork works just as well.
Spatula: Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly and for serving the bars.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Omit the chopped pecans from the streusel topping for a nut-free treat.
Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cloves for a more complex flavor profile.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the pumpkin filling for a delightful twist!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or apple cider for a cozy vibe.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair.
For a festive presentation, arrange bars on a decorative platter with fall-themed decorations.

FAQs about Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to serve. They taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld!

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to two months—just make sure to wrap them well!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient, but fresh pumpkin can add a lovely flavor and texture to your bars.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Pie Bars?

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Pairing them with a warm drink like spiced chai or apple cider makes for a cozy treat!

Can I adjust the spices in the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to tweak the spices to your liking. If you love cinnamon, add a bit more. Or, if you want to try something new, consider adding allspice or cloves for a unique twist!

Final Thoughts

Making these Pumpkin Pie Bars with Streusel is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your home will evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, reminding you of cozy fall gatherings. Each bite is a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin and crunchy streusel, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these bars bring joy to any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure—you won’t regret it!