Looking for a delightful treat to celebrate autumn? You’ve found it! These Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars blend sweet pumpkin filling with a rich, crumbly topping. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step, from ingredients to storage tips. Let’s create a dessert that will warm your heart and impress your guests this fall!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars
To make these tasty Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars, you need some key ingredients. Here’s what you need:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
These ingredients create a rich flavor and a great texture. The pumpkin puree gives the bars their delicious autumn taste. The spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
For a little twist, you can add some optional ingredients:
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Adding pecans gives a nice crunch and some nutty flavor. You can also consider adding chocolate chips or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top. These options can make your bars even more delightful.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have certain items, there are easy swaps. For instance:
– Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
– Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different sweetness.
– If you want to skip the egg, try 1/4 cup of applesauce.
These substitutions can change the flavor and texture slightly, but they still taste great. Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×9 inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some paper hanging over the edges. This helps you lift the bars out later.
Making the Streusel Base
In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Then, pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Stir this mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. Set aside 1/2 cup of this mix for later. Press the rest firmly into the bottom of the pan to create a crust.
Preparing the Pumpkin Filling
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 large beaten egg. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. Mix everything until it is smooth and well combined.
Assembling the Bars
Next, pour the pumpkin filling over the crust in the baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly, making sure to reach every corner. Now, take the reserved streusel and sprinkle it generously over the filling. If you want, add 1/4 cup of chopped pecans on top for extra crunch.
Baking Process
Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You know they are done when the center is set and the edges are golden brown. Once baked, take the pan out and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut them into squares.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Streusel Topping
To make the best streusel, you need the right texture. Mix flour, brown sugar, oats, salt, and cinnamon. Use cold butter for a crumbly finish. I like to melt the butter, but you can also cut it into small pieces. This gives a nice crunch. Reserve half the streusel for the top. Press the rest firmly into the pan for a solid base.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
One common mistake is overmixing the pumpkin filling. Just mix until smooth. Overmixing can add air and make the bars puffy. Also, make sure to measure your ingredients correctly. Too much liquid can make the filling runny. If the bars look too wet after baking, they might not set properly.
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars
These bars shine when served warm. A dollop of whipped cream adds a nice touch. Another great idea is to dust them with powdered sugar. You can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra crunch, sprinkle more pecans on top right before serving. Enjoy these bars with a warm drink for a cozy fall treat!

Variations
Gluten-Free Options
You can make gluten-free pumpkin pie streusel bars. Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many options work well, like almond flour or coconut flour. Just remember, each flour has a unique texture. You may need to add a bit more liquid to your mix. This keeps your bars moist and tasty.
Vegan Version of Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars
To create vegan pumpkin pie streusel bars, replace the egg with a flax or chia seed egg. Mix one tablespoon of seeds with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use a plant-based butter instead of regular butter. Also, swap sweetened condensed milk for coconut or almond milk. These changes keep the flavor while making it vegan-friendly.
Different Nutty Additions or Flavors
Adding nuts can boost flavor and crunch. Try walnuts or almonds in place of pecans. You can also mix in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist. For a unique touch, add a hint of maple syrup or honey to the filling. This adds depth and makes your bars even more special.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars
To keep your Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents them from drying out. I like to place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. You can store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you should refrigerate them.
How to Freeze for Later Use
Freezing these bars is a great idea for later enjoyment. First, let the bars cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight.
Shelf Life and Reheating Tips
These bars stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. In the fridge, they can last up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This warms it just enough to soften the streusel. You can also enjoy them cold if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Start by roasting or steaming the pumpkin until soft. Then, mash it until smooth. Make sure to drain any excess water. This keeps your bars from becoming too watery. Fresh pumpkin gives a rich flavor, but canned puree is convenient and consistent.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
You will know the bars are done when the center is set and the edges turn golden brown. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, bake a little longer. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary.
Can I use other spices in place of nutmeg or ginger?
Absolutely! You can swap nutmeg and ginger with allspice or cardamom. Each spice will add its own twist to the flavor. Just keep the amounts similar to what the recipe calls for. Feel free to experiment based on your taste.
What type of pan is best for baking these bars?
A 9×9 inch square pan works best for these bars. It ensures even baking and easy cutting. Using a metal or glass pan is fine, but make sure to line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy removal and keeps the bars intact.
In this post, we explored the key ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars. We covered essential and optional ingredients, plus substitutions. The detailed steps for making the bars included preparing the pan and baking. I shared tips for perfecting the topping and avoiding common mistakes. You also learned about gluten-free and vegan options. For storage, I provided methods for keeping your bars fresh.
Pumpkin Pie Streusel Bars are a tasty treat worth trying. Enjoy every delicious bite!



