Imagine sinking your teeth into a dessert that captures the essence of fall in every single bite - crispy streusel, creamy pumpkin, and a buttery crust that melts in your mouth. These Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars are not just a recipe; they're a culinary experience that transforms ordinary baking into an extraordinary celebration of seasonal flavors. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this foolproof recipe will have you creating restaurant-worthy desserts that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, melted butter, and brown sugar until a crumbly crust forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the base layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- For the streusel topping, combine rolled oats, chopped pecans, remaining brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pumpkin layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. This allows the bars to set and makes cutting easier.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 even bars. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe the blade between each slice.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream before serving.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't overmix the crust mixture - you want it crumbly, not dense.
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans before chopping them for the streusel topping.
- Use fresh spices for the most vibrant autumn flavor profile.
- Let the bars cool completely to ensure they set properly and are easy to cut.
- For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe the blade between each slice.
- If you want a more decadent dessert, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 55mg
