Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Bars with Crumb Topping
These tender pumpkin bars feature a buttery crumb crust layered with smooth spiced pumpkin filling and topped with more golden streusel. The warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves create a cozy fall dessert perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or afternoon treats. The simple press-in crust and single mixing bowl for the filling make these bars approachable for any baker.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and grease baking dish
- 2
Combine flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly
- 3
Press half of crumb mixture into prepared dish to form crust
- 4
Mix pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, spices, and egg until smooth
- 5
Pour pumpkin mixture over crust
- 6
Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over pumpkin layer
- 7
Bake until top is golden brown
- 8
Cool completely before cutting into bars
Tips
Press the bottom crust firmly to prevent crumbling when cutting the finished bars.
Cool completely before cutting to allow the pumpkin layer to set properly for clean slices.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored covered at room temperature.
Serve at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Common Mistakes
Press crust firmly to avoid crumbly bottom layer that falls apart when cutting.
Cool completely before cutting to prevent the pumpkin layer from being too soft and messy.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
may affect texture slightly
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but drain excess moisture with paper towels to prevent soggy bars.
How long do these bars keep?
Store covered at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week for best quality.
Can I freeze pumpkin streusel bars?
Yes, wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.