Pumpkin Bars: The Ultimate Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction to Pumpkin Bars

Pumpkin bars are a delightful treat that perfectly combine the rich flavors of pumpkin with the creamy sweetness of cream cheese frosting. These bars are not only easy to make but are also a great way to enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of fall any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert for a gathering or a sweet snack to enjoy at home, this pumpkin bars recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

A Personal Story Behind My Pumpkin Bars Journey

My love for pumpkin bars began in my grandmother’s kitchen, where we would bake together every autumn. The air would be filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and nutmeg as we mixed the ingredients. I remember how she always insisted on using fresh pumpkin puree, and how we would eagerly wait for the bars to cool before slathering on the cream cheese frosting. It became a cherished tradition that I continue today, sharing these bars with family and friends, evoking those sweet memories with every bite.

What Makes This Pumpkin Bars Recipe Special?

What sets this pumpkin bars recipe apart is not just the combination of flavors, but the texture and ease of preparation. The bars are moist and tender, thanks to the pumpkin puree and a perfect blend of sugars. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the dessert. Plus, the recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. Each bite offers a delightful taste of fall, making it a favorite for all occasions.

The Full Pumpkin Bars Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin puree
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup neutral oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10 x 14-inch pan and set it aside. This ensures your bars don’t stick and makes for easy removal once baked.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the 3 large eggs. Add the pumpkin puree, neutral oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking soda, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. Continue whisking until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the greased pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
5. Prepare the frosting: For the cream cheese frosting, beat the room temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter together until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and sifted powdered sugar, adjusting the sugar amount based on your desired frosting consistency.
6. Frost the bars: Once the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. For a festive touch, sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Pumpkin Bars

These pumpkin bars are fantastic on their own, but you can enhance your presentation by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For added texture, consider incorporating chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking. You can also experiment with spices by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a swirl of caramel sauce on top of the frosting for an extra sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Bars

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just make sure to cook and puree it before using it in the recipe.
How do I store leftover pumpkin bars? Store any leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them well.
Can I make these bars gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these pumpkin bars gluten-free.

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Delicious pumpkin bars topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, perfect for fall.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 bars

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• 10 x 14-inch pan For baking the pumpkin bars.

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup neutral oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.5 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter room temperature
• 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar sifted

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 10 x 14-inch pan.
• In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then add pumpkin puree, neutral oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.
• Mix in the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon until smooth.
• Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and powdered sugar to reach desired consistency.
• Frost the cooled pumpkin bars and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired before serving.

Notes

For a festive touch, sprinkle some ground cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top of the frosting before serving.

Keyword Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe