Pumpkin Bars with Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting: A Fall Baking Essential
This crowd-pleasing bake combines velvety richness and cozy autumn warmth.
Pumpkin Bars with Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting
When autumn arrives, there’s nothing quite as comforting as baking with pumpkin. Pumpkin bars are a classic fall dessert, combining the warmth of pumpkin spice with the creamy goodness of a velvety frosting. This recipe yields wonderfully moist and flavorful dessert bars that are perfect for sharing—from family gatherings to holiday potlucks. Read on for the full ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, baking tips, and answers to all your pumpkin bar questions.
Why Pumpkin Bars Are a Must-Bake for Fall
Pumpkin bars offer the best of both worlds: tender, cake-like texture and bold autumn flavors. The pairing of a soft pumpkin base and rich spiced cream cheese frosting makes these treats irresistible to pumpkin lovers of all ages. Plus, they’re easy to make, easy to slice, and easy to serve right out of the pan.
- Quick prep and simple ingredients: Most are pantry staples, and it takes just about 10 minutes to get the batter ready.
- Consistently moist texture: Thanks to oil and pumpkin puree, these bars never turn out dry.
- Perfect for gatherings: The recipe makes a generous 13-by-9-inch pan—ideal for sharing.
- Delicious spiced frosting: Adds a flavorful twist and smooth finish.
Ingredients
Here is what you’ll need for both the pumpkin bars and their delectable topping. Check your pantry before heading to the store—most ingredients are everyday kitchen staples.
Pumpkin Bars
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- Baking spray with flour (for greasing pan)
Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 5 cups powdered sugar
Equipment
Before you start, gather these essentials for best results:
- Baking pan: 13-by-9-inch (glass, metal, or ceramic)
- Mixing bowls: Large and small sizes
- Whisk and spatula: For smooth batter and frosting
- Electric mixer or stand mixer: For creamy, lump-free frosting
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack (optional)
Directions: How to Make Pumpkin Bars
Making these pumpkin bars is a straightforward, rewarding process. Here is a summary in easy-to-follow steps.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Generously coat a 13-by-9-inch baking pan with baking spray containing flour to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, both sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix everything together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined—be careful not to overmix, which can make the bars dense.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely: Let bars cool in the pan before frosting—this step is crucial for a smooth, set topping.
- Make the spiced cream cheese frosting:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese on medium until smooth.
- Add butter, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Beat until creamy and well blended.
- Reduce speed to low; gradually mix in powdered sugar until fully incorporated. Increase speed to medium-high and beat until fluffy, about 1 minute.
- Assemble and serve: Once bars are fully cool, spread the frosting evenly over the cake. Cut into squares for serving. Keep any leftovers refrigerated, as the frosting gets soft at room temperature.
Tips & Variations for the Best Pumpkin Bars
- Check doneness: Bake until a toothpick comes out clean (not wet or gummy)—this ensures bars are fully cooked but still moist.
- For extra flavor: Substitute the pumpkin pie spice in the frosting with freshly grated orange zest for a citrusy, tangy finish.
- Frost with style: For a decorative touch, swirl the frosting with the back of a spoon or offset spatula.
- Nuts or chocolate? Sprinkle the top with chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips just after frosting if desired.
- Make ahead: Bars can be baked and stored (unfrosted) in an airtight container for up to two days. Frost just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make pumpkin bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Bake the bars up to two days in advance, but keep them unfrosted, tightly covered at room temperature or refrigerated. Frost right before serving for best results.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any frosted bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration and will soften at room temperature.
What others are reading
Q: Can I freeze pumpkin bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze unfrosted bars, individually wrapped, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and frost before serving. Freezing frosted bars is possible, but the texture of the frosting may change after thawing.
Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
A: Homemade puree works well as long as it’s very smooth and not watery. Be sure to drain off any excess liquid before using.
Q: Can I substitute the oil?
A: You can replace vegetable oil with an equal amount of another neutral oil (canola, sunflower) or even melted coconut oil. Unsweetened applesauce is another popular substitute for a lighter version, though the texture may be slightly drier.
Pumpkin Bars Recipe Overview
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40–45 minutes |
| Total Time | About 2 hours (includes cooling) |
| Yield | 12–16 bars |
| Skill Level | Easy |
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Perfect dessert bar: Bring these to potlucks, fall gatherings, or serve after dinner for a cozy treat.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle with toasted pepitas, chopped nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon.
- Pair with: Hot apple cider, a cinnamon latte, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate autumn dessert experience.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
| Per Bar (1 of 16) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320–340 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 47g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sugar | 33g |
(Numbers are general estimates and will vary with brands and serving size.)
Troubleshooting & Expert Tips
- If bars are too dense: Avoid overmixing the batter—mix until just combined after adding the flour.
- If frosting is too thick: Add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- If frosting is runny: Chill briefly in the refrigerator before spreading over the bars.
- For neat slices: Wipe the knife clean after each cut and use a long, sharp blade for tidy portions.
Pumpkin Bar Variations
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-free: Replace cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives for the frosting.
- No frosting: Dust cooled bars with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a lower-calorie option.
Fun Facts About Pumpkin Bars
- The first pumpkin bar recipes appeared in American cookbooks in the mid-20th century, inspired by traditional pumpkin bread and sheet cakes.
- Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and fiber, making it a nutritious base for baked goods (in moderation with sugar of course).
- Homemade pumpkin puree can bring a deeper, slightly earthier flavor than canned.
More Cozy Pumpkin Recipes to Try
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars
- Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping
- Pumpkin Muffins with Cinnamon Sugar
- Classic Pumpkin Pie
- Pumpkin Scones with Maple Glaze
Final Thoughts & Seasonal Tips
Whether you’re baking for a fall festival, a holiday dessert table, or a cozy night in, these pumpkin bars with spiced cream cheese frosting are sure to please any crowd. Adapt the recipe for your diet or spice preference, and don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings. Pair with your favorite hot beverage and enjoy the flavors of autumn in every bite!
References
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