As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, there’s nothing quite like the scent of pumpkin wafting through the kitchen to remind us that fall has arrived. That's precisely how I discovered my love for these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. One chilly afternoon, I found myself with a can of pumpkin purée I’d forgotten in the pantry, and a sudden craving for something cozy yet delightful. The result? A batch of moist, spiced bars topped with silky cream cheese frosting that felt like a warm hug on a plate!
This recipe is everything you need for those busy days when the allure of fast food temptations lurk. Simple to prepare and even simpler to share, these bars become a beloved fixture at potlucks, family gatherings, and cozy evenings at home. Each bite is a celebration of fall flavors, making them a new staple in our kitchen. Ready to bring the taste of autumn into your own home? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to make your taste buds dance!
Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat with minimal effort.
- The combination of warm spices and creamy frosting creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible and perfect for the fall season.
- Their versatility makes them suitable for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
- Visually, these bars are a feast for the eyes, especially when topped with playful candy pumpkins or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
For the Bars
- All-purpose flour – provides structure and texture, ensuring your bars are perfectly moist.
- Granulated sugar – adds sweetness and balances the rich pumpkin flavor.
- Brown sugar – brings a delightful depth and a hint of caramel-like flavor to your bars.
- Pumpkin purée – the star ingredient; it keeps your bars moist and infuses them with fall vibes.
- Vegetable oil – ensures a tender crumb and helps with moisture retention.
- Large eggs – act as a binder that adds richness to your bars.
- Baking powder – a leavening agent that helps your bars rise beautifully.
- Baking soda – works with acidic components to create a light and fluffy texture.
- Salt – enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Ground cinnamon – adds warmth and classic pumpkin spice flavor.
- Ground nutmeg – provides a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon.
- Ground ginger – adds a zesty warmth to the blend of spices.
- Ground cloves – delivers a warm, aromatic quality that elevates the flavor profile.
- Vanilla extract – adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese – lends a rich creaminess and tangy contrast to the sweet bars.
- Unsalted butter – contributes to the smooth texture of the frosting, making it perfectly spreadable.
- Vanilla extract – infuses additional flavor into the creamy topping.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting while giving it that desired fluffy texture.
These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but create a cozy atmosphere in your home when made.
How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing or lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper is essential for easy removal of the bars later on, ensuring they come out perfectly.
-
Whisk together pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This creates a delightful base for your bars.
-
Combine the dry ingredients by whisking flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in a separate bowl. This step ensures even distribution of spices for a balanced flavor.
-
Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture by gently stirring until just combined. Take care not to overmix; you want a tender texture in your bars.
-
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly from corner to corner. This will help your bars bake uniformly.
-
Bake for 28–33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You'll know your bars are ready when they have a beautiful, golden color on top.
-
Cool the bars in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set perfectly before frosting.
-
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl until creamy and smooth. Then add in the vanilla, mixing it in well before gradually adding the powdered sugar until your frosting is velvety.
-
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Make sure to cover every inch so you get a delicious frosting bite with every square.
-
Slice the bars into squares and serve them up! Optionally, top with candy pumpkins or a dusting of cinnamon for that extra festive touch.
Optional: Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pumpkin Bars Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe to make it uniquely yours!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive dessert. It’s vital to ensure your blend includes xanthan gum for the right texture!
-
Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese and butter with vegan cream cheese and coconut oil in the frosting for a creamy, dairy-free version. You'll still get that luscious texture without compromising the flavor.
-
Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter to add a delightful crunch and extra flavor depth. The toasted nuts also provide a heartwarming texture contrast.
-
Spiced Up: Increase the spices by adding an extra teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of allspice for a truly festive kick. It’ll warm your soul and elevate the autumn vibe!
-
Coconut Delight: Swap half the oil for melted coconut oil and sprinkle shredded coconut into the batter. Each bite will transport you to a cozy tropical retreat!
-
Chocolate Lovers: For a chocolatey twist, fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips before baking. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spices, creating a decadent treat.
-
Maple Frosting: Instead of traditional cream cheese frosting, use maple syrup with the frosting mixture for a sweet, nutty flavor that embodies fall. It adds an extra layer of yumminess that you wouldn’t want to miss!
-
Zesty Lemon: Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze instead of frosting for a bright citrus twist. The tang of lemon beautifully complements the sweet pumpkin flavors for a refreshing finish.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?
As the sweet aroma of pumpkin wafts through your kitchen, it’s time to enhance those delightful bars with perfect partners for a cozy feast.
-
Spiced Chai Latte: The warmth and spiciness of this drink beautifully complement the pumpkin flavors, creating a comforting experience.
-
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, balancing the dense richness of the bars.
-
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some rich caramel sauce over your bars elevates the sweetness and introduces a delightful gooeyness.
-
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy contrast of vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing counterpoint to the warm pumpkin bars.
-
Maple Glazed Pecan Salad: This salad brings a crunch and earthy flavors that enhance the spices in the bars while adding a touch of freshness.
-
Honeyed Greek Yogurt: A scoop of this creamy yogurt topped with a drizzle of honey offers a tangy contrast, perfect for balancing sweetness.
-
Cider Mimosa: This festive brunch drink combines sparkling cider with a hint of orange, matching the fall vibes with a bubbly twist.
-
Pecan Pie Muffins: For a double dessert treat, these muffins echo the warm spices of the bars and add a delightful chewiness.
These pairings will truly create a heartfelt autumn gathering, wrapping you and your loved ones in the spirit of the season.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Room Temperature: Store leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and flavorful.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: You can freeze pumpkin bars without frosting for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, thaw the frozen bars overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving for a cozy treat!
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will love the flexibility of making these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting in advance! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake. After cooling, the bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the cream cheese frosting, mix it and keep it chilled until you're ready to frost the bars; this ensures it remains creamy and spreadable. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the bars, frost them, and enjoy a delicious treat with minimal effort. You'll have homemade joy with each bite, perfect for even the busiest weeknights!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, always whisk the wet ingredients until smooth to ensure an even texture in your batter.
- Be careful not to overmix when combining the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to dense bars instead of the desired light and tender texture.
- For an extra rich flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the frosting to balance the sweetness.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F before baking to maintain consistent temperature for even cooking.
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pumpkin purée for my pumpkin bars?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin purée, look for cans labeled 100% pumpkin with no additives. If you can, aim for brands that are recognized for their quality, as their flavor tends to be richer. If using fresh pumpkin, make sure it's ripe with no dark spots or soft areas—this ensures that your bars come out moist and flavorful!
How do I store leftover pumpkin bars?
Very! If you have any pumpkin bars left, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, place them in the fridge where they can last for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them warm up a bit before serving to really enjoy the flavors!
Can I freeze my pumpkin bars, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your pumpkin bars, I recommend wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap to preserve moisture. Then, place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe zip-top bag for an extra layer of protection. They can stay delightful in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!
What should I do if my pumpkin bars turn out too dense?
Oh no! If your bars are dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter, which can activate the gluten in the flour too much. To achieve a lighter texture next time, stir the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—it's okay if there are a few lumps! Also, make sure to measure your flour correctly; spooning it into the measuring cup instead of scooping can prevent packing.
Are these pumpkin bars safe for people with food allergies?
Very! If you're catering to specific dietary needs, be cautious with your ingredient selections. For a nut allergy, ensure you use a nut-free vegetable oil and check your spices. For dairy-free options, consider substituting with dairy-free cream cheese and butter. As always, read labels carefully to accommodate any allergens.
Can I make these pumpkin bars healthier?
Definitely! You can substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients, or reduce the sugar slightly without sacrificing flavor. For a twist, try adding natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, keeping in mind they might alter the texture a bit, so adjust the liquids accordingly.
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a large bowl until smooth.
- Combine the dry ingredients by whisking flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in a separate bowl.
- Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture by gently stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 28–33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bars in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla, then gradually add powdered sugar.
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
- Slice the bars into squares and serve. Optionally, top with candy pumpkins or a dusting of cinnamon.
Leave a Reply