Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars with Crumb Topping

Introduction

Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars with Crumb Topping are the perfect blend of cozy autumn flavors and wholesome ingredients. Soft, spiced pumpkin filling sits on a hearty oatmeal base, while the buttery crumb topping adds a delicious crunch. These bars strike a balance between being indulgent enough to feel like dessert and hearty enough to enjoy as a snack or even breakfast on the go.

They’re packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, paired with the natural sweetness of pumpkin, and finished with a golden oat crumble. Ideal for fall gatherings, holiday treats, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea, these bars are both comforting and versatile.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels like fall in every bite. The pumpkin makes the bars soft and moist, while the oatmeal crust and crumb topping add hearty texture and nuttiness. It’s also a recipe that’s easy to make but looks impressive, so it’s perfect for sharing at potlucks, bake sales, or family get-togethers.

What makes it extra special is the versatility — these bars can double as a sweet breakfast, a healthy-ish afternoon snack, or a dessert when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. That combination of comfort, flavor, and practicality is why this recipe is one of my favorites.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Combines the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin pie with the heartiness of oats.
• Great for meal prep — portable, freezable, and easy to pack.
• Works as dessert, snack, or breakfast.
• Perfect for holidays, autumn potlucks, or enjoying with coffee.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 12 bars
• Calories: ~210 kcal per bar

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American (seasonal baking)
• Course: Dessert / Snack / Breakfast Treat

Ingredients

For the Oat Base & Crumb Topping:

• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for healthier version)
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Pumpkin Filling:

• 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (or mix of nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
• Pinch of salt

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Prepare oatmeal crust and topping.
2. Mix pumpkin filling.
3. Layer crust, pumpkin mixture, and crumb topping in baking dish.
4. Bake until golden brown and set.
5. Cool, slice, and enjoy.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Oat Crust & Topping

1. In a bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
2. Stir in melted butter until mixture is crumbly.
3. Press 2/3 of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan (this is the base).
4. Reserve the remaining 1/3 for the crumb topping.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Filling

1. In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, brown sugar, maple syrup, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Pour pumpkin filling evenly over the oat crust.
2. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown.
2. Remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing into bars.

How to Serve

• Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.
• Pair with coffee, chai latte, or spiced tea.
• For dessert, serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Press the base layer firmly so it holds together when sliced.
• Let bars cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
• For extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping.
• Use parchment paper for easy lifting and cleaner slices.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free flour.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter.
• Nutty Twist: Add a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling or topping.
• Healthier Version: Replace part of the flour with almond flour and sweeten with coconut sugar.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze sliced bars (individually wrapped) for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight or microwave for 20 seconds before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 8x8-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Parchment paper (recommended for easy removal)

Conclusion

The Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars with Crumb Topping are a delightful blend of cozy fall flavors, hearty oats, and a sweet crumbly finish. They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed as a snack, breakfast bar, or dessert, and simple enough to whip up with pantry staples. Whether you’re making them for family, sharing at a potluck, or freezing a batch for later, these bars are a must-have recipe in your seasonal baking collection.