Name: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup canola oil; 4 large eggs; 15 ounces pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature); 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 2 tablespoons sour cream (room temperature); ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt; 1½ cups powdered sugar; 1 cup roasted chopped pecans (optional)

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Every fall, I find myself craving the warm, inviting flavors of autumn. That’s when I whip up a batch of Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. This recipe brings the cozy essence of pumpkin-spiced goodness right into your kitchen. I remember the first time I made these bars; the aroma filled my home and drew everyone in like moths to a flame. Friends and family gathered around, eager to taste a slice of the delectable dessert that seemed to embody the very spirit of the season.

Each bite of these bars offers a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, complemented by the rich cream cheese frosting that brings everything together. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, I cherish moments spent enjoying these bars with loved ones, perhaps with a warm cup of tea or coffee. There’s something about sharing food that creates connections, and these pumpkin bars are always a hit.

Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ideal treat. So, preheat that oven and let’s dive into a recipe that’s sure to become a tradition in your home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
3g g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10g g

Tools Used:
Kitchen Scale, Baking Sheet

Why This Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Is So Good

Perfectly Moist and Flavorful

The star of Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is undoubtedly the pumpkin itself. With its natural moisture, pumpkin puree keeps the bars soft and tender. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of spices that dance on your taste buds, creating a sensation that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Easy to Make

Don’t let the deliciousness intimidate you! This recipe is straightforward and requires no advanced baking skills. From mixing the ingredients to pouring the batter into the pan, you’ll find it’s a breeze. Plus, there’s no need to fuss with layers; simply spread that luscious frosting on top!

Flexible for Any Occasion

These bars are incredibly versatile. They make for an excellent dessert at a potluck, a delightful treat during a cozy movie night, or a special dish to celebrate holidays like Thanksgiving. You might even find yourself making them just because! They’re a perfect way to welcome the fall season.

Delightfully Shareable

One of the best things about these pumpkin bars is how easily they can be shared. Cut them into squares and share with friends, family, or coworkers. They’re bound to bring smiles and spark conversations about the delicious flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Store

Another reason to adore this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can bake the bars a day in advance, and the flavor only gets better as they sit. Frost them the day you plan to serve for a fresh taste. This makes it convenient for busy hosts who want to be prepared ahead of time.

Perfectly Completed with Cream Cheese Frosting

Lastly, the cream cheese frosting elevates these bars to a whole new level. Its creamy, tangy profile perfectly balances the sweetness of the pumpkin bars. It’s easy to whip up and can be made ahead, ensuring you have a luscious topping ready when it’s time to serve.

Shopping List for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Gathering the right ingredients is a crucial step in creating the perfect pumpkin bars. Each component has its role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture. The combination of dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and spices sets the foundation, while the pumpkin puree adds moisture and that signature fall taste. The cream cheese adds richness to the frosting, making it a luxurious finish.

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup canola oil
4 large eggs
15 ounces pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons sour cream, room temperature
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
1½ cups powdered sugar
1 cup roasted chopped pecans (optional)

Recipe Directions for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Let’s get into the delightful process of making these pumpkin bars. You’ll want to follow these steps closely to ensure that your bars come out perfectly. You’ll be amazed by how easy it is!

Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the oven rack in the middle. Prepare a rimmed sheet pan (11×15 inches) by spraying it with nonstick baking spray. This ensures easy removal of the bars once they’re baked.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk them together until they are well mixed. Set this mixture aside to use later.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the granulated sugar and canola oil. Beat on medium speed for about one minute until they are well incorporated and slightly creamy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This allows each egg to blend thoroughly into the mixture, creating a rich batter.
Next, add the pumpkin puree and mix for about one minute until well combined. The batter should be thick and orange at this point.
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture, about one cup at a time, until no flour is visible. Once all the flour is added, increase the speed to medium and mix for 1 to 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. Gently rap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles, ensuring a uniform texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly.
Once baked, transfer the cake to a wire cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.
While the cake cools, let’s make the frosting. In the bowl of your stand mixer, add the cream cheese and beat on medium-high speed for one minute until it’s smooth and creamy.
Add the unsalted butter to the cream cheese and mix until incorporated, about one minute.
Next, add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Reduce the speed to medium and mix for an additional minute.
Finally, add the powdered sugar and beat until fluffy and smooth, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
Once the cake is cool, frost it generously with the cream cheese frosting. If desired, top with roasted chopped pecans for added flavor and texture. Cut into squares and serve.

Things Worth Knowing

Check your oven: Ensure your oven temperature is accurate by using an oven thermometer. A too-hot or too-cool oven can affect baking time and results.
Flour measurement: When measuring flour, use the spoon and level method to avoid packing the flour too tightly. This ensures you don’t end up with dry bars.
Cooling time: Letting the bars cool completely before frosting is crucial. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
Storage tips: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If they last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Substitutions and Tips

Whether you’re looking to put a twist on this recipe or just need some helpful tips, here’s what you need to know:

Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 4 days. If you prefer chilled desserts, refrigerate them!
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They will keep for up to three months.
Variations: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor. You could also incorporate chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
Serving: These bars are perfect for gatherings, but they also make a great snack with afternoon tea. Just cut them into smaller pieces for a lighter treat!
Frosting options: If you want a lighter frosting, consider making a whipped cream topping instead of cream cheese frosting for a delicious change.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to enhance your experience:

Enjoy with coffee: These bars pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai, making them an ideal afternoon treat.
Perfect for parties: Serve them at fall gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or potlucks. They are sure to impress your guests!
Top with ice cream: Serve a slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert.
Pack for lunch: They make a great addition to school or work lunches. Just wrap them up and you have a sweet treat ready to go.
Seasonal celebrations: These bars are perfect for celebrating Halloween or Thanksgiving, bringing a festive touch to your table.

FAQ

These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are unique because they are not only moist and flavorful but also topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that complements the pumpkin perfectly. Unlike traditional pumpkin bread, which is usually denser and bread-like, these bars have a light, cake-like texture that makes them incredibly easy to enjoy and share.

Absolutely! In fact, making these bars ahead of time is a great idea. You can bake them a day in advance and allow them to cool completely. Just frost them on the day that you plan to serve for the freshest taste. If you’re preparing for an event, consider making the frosting up to two days ahead and storing it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

To store any leftover bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for about three to four days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. For even longer storage, these bars freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using whipped cream instead of the cream cheese frosting. You can also make a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk or almond milk to achieve your desired consistency. For a twist, try adding a hint of maple syrup to the glaze for additional flavor!

Conclusion

The charm of these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting lies in their ability to bring warmth and joy to every occasion. Their delightful flavors and easy preparation make them a must-try for anyone looking to celebrate fall or simply enjoy a sweet treat. I encourage you to try making them; I promise they will become a favorite in your home as they have in mine. Savor each bite and cherish the memories made around the table with loved ones.