Name: Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares That Will Delight You!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice; 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Introduction to Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving the warm, cozy flavors of fall. That’s where my Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares come in! These delightful treats are not just easy to whip up; they’re a perfect solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that fills your home with the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice. Trust me, these squares will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares

These Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 15 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying treat. The rich pumpkin flavor combined with warm spices creates a taste that feels like a hug in dessert form. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee on a chilly afternoon!

Ingredients for Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your crumb mixture, providing structure and texture.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Granulated sugar: Balances the flavors and helps create that delightful crumbly topping.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter brings moisture and richness to the squares.
Pumpkin puree: The star of the show! It gives these squares their signature flavor and moistness.
Large eggs: They help bind the ingredients together, ensuring a lovely texture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it even more inviting.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the squares rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
Pumpkin spice: A blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg that captures the essence of fall.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.

For those looking to add a twist, consider mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the crumb mixture for extra texture and flavor. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grab your baking dish and grease it lightly. This will help your squares come out easily once they’re baked. Trust me, no one wants to wrestle with a stuck dessert!

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix everything together until it resembles coarse crumbs. This crumbly texture is what will create that delightful topping. It’s like making a sandy beach, but way tastier!

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Now, take half of that crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s even and compact. This will be the sturdy base for your pumpkin filling. Think of it as laying the foundation for a cozy pumpkin spice house!

Step 4: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, pumpkin spice, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. This filling is where the magic happens! The pumpkin puree will give your squares that rich, moist texture that everyone loves.

Step 5: Assemble the Squares

Pour the pumpkin mixture over the crumb base in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top of the pumpkin layer. This creates a lovely crumbly topping that will bake to perfection. It’s like putting a cozy blanket on your pumpkin filling!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for a bit before cutting into squares. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for even baking.
Use a spatula to spread the pumpkin filling evenly.
Let the squares cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

Baking dish: A 9×9 inch dish works perfectly, but any similar size will do.
Mixing bowls: Use two medium bowls for mixing dry and wet ingredients.
Whisk: A whisk is great for blending the pumpkin filling, but a fork will work too.
Spatula: A rubber spatula helps spread the filling evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor twist.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based treat.

Serving Suggestions for Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares

Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Enjoy alongside a steaming cup of spiced chai or coffee.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of fall flavor.

FAQs about Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares

As you embark on your baking adventure with these Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just cook and puree it until smooth. It will give your squares a lovely, fresh flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store your squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be refrigerated for a longer shelf life.

Can I freeze these squares?

Yes! These Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to three months.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Can I make these squares ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them covered at room temperature, and they’ll be ready to enjoy when you are!

Final Thoughts

Creating these Simple Pumpkin Spice Crumb Squares is more than just baking; it’s about embracing the warmth of fall and sharing joy with loved ones. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen is like a warm hug, inviting everyone to gather around. Each bite is a reminder of cozy afternoons and cherished memories. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them at a gathering, these squares bring a sense of comfort and happiness. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure—you won’t regret it!