If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that captures the essence of fall, you absolutely have to try this Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These bars are wonderfully moist and packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, while the luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting adds the perfect creamy touch. Whether you need an easy dessert for a family gathering or a sweet treat to brighten a chilly afternoon, these pumpkin bars deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in making these pumpkin bars irresistible. From the spices that bring depth to the pumpkin puree, to the cream cheese that creates the silky frosting, everything works in harmony to create a dessert you’ll crave again and again.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a moist texture for the bars.
- Brown sugar (packed): Brings a hint of molasses flavor and adds richness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bars tender and moist without heaviness.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
- Pumpkin puree: The star of the dish, offering that classic autumn flavor and beautiful color.
- All-purpose flour: Builds the base and gives the bars their perfect crumb.
- Baking powder: Helps the bars rise and become fluffy without being cakey.
- Baking soda: Enhances browning and balances the texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the bars with warm, sweet spice.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
- Cream cheese (softened): The key to that dreamy, tangy frosting everyone loves.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Creates a rich, smooth base for the frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a perfect consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and rounds out the frosting flavor.
How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure that your pumpkin bars come out easily without sticking. This simple step is important and guarantees a smooth release once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until they form a smooth mixture. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to incorporate air and create a light base. Finally, stir in the pumpkin puree — this adds moisture and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These spices and leaveners are what transform simple pumpkin batter into a fluffy, fragrant treat, so be sure to mix them well.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense bars, so stop as soon as you see no dry flour. This step ensures your pumpkin bars stay tender yet structured.
Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Bars
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before moving on—this is vital for the frosting process.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars cool, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat again until the frosting is fluffy and luscious. This frosting is rich with a balanced tang that pairs perfectly with the spiced pumpkin base.
Step 7: Frost and Slice
Once the pumpkin bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon for a smooth finish. Slice into squares and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to the frosting for a delightful crunch. A dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice can elevate the presentation and intensify the warm, seasonal flavors even more. These little touches make your dessert feel extra special.
Side Dishes
These pumpkin bars are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with a cup of hot apple cider, vanilla latte, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn your dessert experience into a real event. The combination of warm and creamy complements the spiced pumpkin beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these bars in artisanal parchment paper or on a rustic wooden board for a charming autumnal vibe. You can also cut them into bite-sized squares for a perfect finger food at parties. For a festive touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the frosting or add edible gold leaf accents.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, and the flavors tend to deepen overnight. Chilling also helps the frosting firm up slightly, making the bars easier to handle.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these pumpkin bars freeze beautifully. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They will keep their flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy, bring the bars to room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds to soften the frosting without melting it completely. This quick step will refresh the bars’ soft texture and enhance their comforting taste.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender and puree it in a blender or food processor. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture to avoid a soggy batter. The flavor will be just as amazing and even a bit more vibrant.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure to use one that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Is there a way to make the frosting less sweet?
Sure! You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly or add a small pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Some people like to add a squeeze of lemon juice to the frosting for a subtle tang that cuts through the sugar.
How do I prevent the frosting from melting too much?
Keep the bars refrigerated until just before serving. Softened cream cheese frosting is sensitive to heat, so chilling helps maintain its shape and texture. If transporting, consider packing the dessert in a cooler bag.
Can I double this recipe for a bigger batch?
Definitely! This Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe scales up well. Just double all ingredients and use two 9×13 pans or a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time slightly and checking doneness with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dessert that feels like a warm hug, and this Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe does exactly that. It blends the perfect amount of spice, sweetness, and creamy frosting to make your taste buds dance with joy. Once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let these pumpkin bars brighten your day and your dessert table!
Print
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a moist and flavorful fall dessert, perfect for gatherings and cozy afternoons. The spiced pumpkin batter baked to perfection is topped with a creamy, sweet frosting, creating a delightful treat that highlights the flavors of the season.
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Stir in the pumpkin puree until evenly combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Bake the Bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious fall treat!
Notes
- For an extra festive touch, top with chopped pecans, a dusting of cinnamon, or pumpkin spice.
- Bars can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator to keep fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
