Pumpkin Streusel Bars

Pumpkin streusel bars are the perfect fall-inspired dessert, combining a spiced graham cracker crust with a silky pumpkin filling and a sweet, crumbly streusel topping. These bars are comforting, full of warm spices, and ideal for everything from autumn gatherings to Thanksgiving desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, spiced pumpkin filling with a rich flavor
• Crumbly streusel topping adds texture and sweetness
• Easy to slice and serve – no pie plate needed
• Make-ahead friendly and great for feeding a crowd
• Tastes just like pumpkin pie, but easier to prepare

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Melted butter

For the filling:

• Canned pumpkin puree
• Eggs
• Brown sugar
• Evaporated milk or heavy cream
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground ginger
• Ground cloves or allspice
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

For the streusel topping:

• All-purpose flour
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Cold butter, cubed

Optional topping:

• Whipped cream or cream cheese dollops
• A dusting of powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat and prepare pan:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly.
2. Make the crust:
   Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and cool slightly.
3. Prepare the filling:
   In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, milk or cream, spices, vanilla, and salt until smooth and fully blended. Pour over the pre-baked crust.
4. Make the streusel:
   In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add cold butter and cut in with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Assemble and bake:
   Sprinkle the streusel over the pumpkin filling. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly puffed. A toothpick should come out mostly clean.
6. Cool and chill:
   Allow to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
7. Decorate and serve:
   Add dollops of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 15–18 bars
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Cooling and Chilling Time: 2–3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Cream cheese swirl: Add spoonfuls of sweetened cream cheese mixture to the pumpkin filling and swirl before baking.
• Nut topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel for crunch.
• Crust variation: Use gingersnap crumbs or crushed Biscoff cookies instead of graham crackers.
• Maple twist: Add 1–2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the filling for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, but can be gently warmed in the microwave for 10 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, as long as it is pureed and not too watery. Strain if needed to achieve the consistency of canned pumpkin.

Can I make this with a pie crust?

You can substitute a traditional pie crust, but the graham cracker crust is easier and complements the pumpkin flavor well.

Is evaporated milk necessary?

Evaporated milk or heavy cream creates a creamy texture. Regular milk can be used but may result in a looser filling.

Why do the bars need to chill?

Chilling helps the bars set properly and makes them easier to slice cleanly.

Can I leave off the streusel topping?

Yes, but the streusel adds a wonderful texture and sweetness. You could replace it with a layer of whipped cream instead.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger pan or bake in two batches.

What’s the best way to slice clean bars?

Use a sharp knife and clean it between each cut. Chill the bars fully before slicing.

Can I make them ahead?

Yes, these are perfect for making 1–2 days ahead. They taste even better after the flavors meld.

Do I need to blind-bake the crust?

A short pre-bake is recommended to help the crust hold up to the moist filling.

Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?

Yes, use 1½–2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice as a substitute for the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Conclusion

Pumpkin streusel bars are the ultimate make-ahead fall dessert—easy to prepare, easy to serve, and endlessly satisfying. With a buttery crust, silky spiced filling, and sweet crumb topping, they deliver the nostalgic flavor of pumpkin pie with half the effort. Whether for a Thanksgiving feast or a cozy weekend treat, these bars are sure to become a seasonal staple.

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