Deliciously moist pumpkin bars topped with a crunchy streusel, these Pumpkin Streusel Bars are perfect for fall gatherings and cozy desserts.
Pumpkin Streusel Bars are the perfect fall treat, combining moist, spiced pumpkin with a buttery, crunchy streusel topping. These bars are easy to make and offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making them ideal for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy night in. The soft pumpkin layer is complemented by the crumbly streusel, giving each bite a satisfying crunch.
INGREDIENTS
- Pumpkin puree: 1 cup, provides the moist, pumpkin base
- Sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness
- Vegetable oil: ½ cup, adds moisture to the pumpkin layer
- Large eggs: 2, to bind the ingredients
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, enhances the flavor
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups, provides structure to the pumpkin layer
- Baking powder: 1 tsp, helps the bars rise
- Baking soda: 1 tsp, ensures a light texture
- Pumpkin pie spice: 1 tsp, adds warm, fall spices
- Salt: ½ tsp, balances the flavors
- All-purpose flour (for streusel): ½ cup, for the crumbly topping
- Packed brown sugar (for streusel): ½ cup, adds sweetness and richness to the topping
- Rolled oats (for streusel): ½ cup, for added texture
- Cinnamon (for streusel): ½ tsp, adds warm spice to the topping
- Cold butter (for streusel): ¼ cup, cubed, creates the crumbly texture
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- Step 3:
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Step 5 (Streusel):
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon for the streusel topping. Cut in the cold butter until crumbly.
- Step 6:
- Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 9:
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
Serving and Storage Tips
- These bars are best served at room temperature, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, keep the bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes
- To enhance the streusel topping, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the vegetable oil with melted butter in the pumpkin layer.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- For a deeper pumpkin flavor, roast fresh pumpkin and puree it before using it in the recipe.
How to Make Perfect Pumpkin Streusel Bars
The key to making perfect Pumpkin Streusel Bars is to avoid overmixing the batter. Stir the dry and wet ingredients together just until combined to keep the bars light and tender. Using cold butter in the streusel ensures the topping remains crumbly and crisp.
Creative Variations for Pumpkin Streusel Bars
For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the pumpkin batter. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bars for an extra layer of sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pumpkin puree can be used, but make sure to drain any excess liquid to match the consistency of canned pumpkin.
How do I prevent the streusel topping from sinking?
To keep the streusel on top, ensure the butter is cold and cut into small cubes before mixing with the other streusel ingredients.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Yes, adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping adds a wonderful crunch and flavor.
Summary
Pumpkin Streusel Bars are the ultimate fall dessert, combining the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with a crunchy streusel topping. These bars are moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or a cozy snack at home. The buttery streusel adds a delightful texture contrast to the soft pumpkin layer, making each bite rich and satisfying. Whether you're serving them at a party or just enjoying a treat with a cup of coffee, these Pumpkin Streusel Bars are sure to be a hit!