There’s something about the warm, comforting flavor of pumpkin that makes us think of cozy fall days, colorful leaves, and family gatherings. Our Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate treat to embrace the autumn season. With a soft, moist base made from pure pumpkin and warm spices, topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, this recipe is the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
In this detailed recipe, we’ll guide you through every step of making the perfect pumpkin bars that will wow your family and friends. Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration or just because, these bars are guaranteed to become a favorite.
A Brief History of Pumpkin Desserts
Pumpkins have been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, especially in the fall. Native to North America, pumpkins were cultivated by Indigenous peoples and later adopted by European settlers. Over time, pumpkin found its way into pies, cakes, and now—our beloved pumpkin bars. Paired with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, pumpkin desserts have become synonymous with autumn flavors. The addition of cream cheese frosting, a relatively modern twist, adds a decadent, tangy contrast to the naturally sweet and earthy pumpkin base.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful: These bars are packed with pumpkin and warm spices, making them incredibly soft and flavorful.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these pumpkin bars come together quickly.
- Perfect for fall: The flavors of pumpkin and spices make this the ideal dessert for autumn, but it’s delicious year-round.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, potluck, or just enjoying them at home, these bars are sure to impress.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bars
To make the best Pumpkin Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Bars:
- 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup of vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup of unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pumpkin Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will ensure your bars don’t stick and will release easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These spices will give the bars that classic pumpkin flavor we all love. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed to avoid clumps of spices.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The oil helps keep the bars moist, while the pumpkin puree adds flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense bars. The batter should be smooth, with no lumps of flour remaining.
Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This will form the base of your frosting and should be free of any lumps.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla and Powdered Sugar
Add the vanilla extract and gradually beat in the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more powdered sugar if necessary.
Step 3: Frost the Pumpkin Bars
Once the bars have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of the bars. Use a spatula to smooth the frosting evenly across the surface. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top or decorate with crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference, and serve! These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bars
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
- Make sure to fully cool the bars before frosting them to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For an extra moist texture, add a tablespoon of applesauce or a dash of milk to the batter.
- If you prefer a sweeter frosting, you can increase the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ginger or more nutmeg to the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving for the freshest taste.
Can I freeze the bars?
Absolutely. You can freeze the pumpkin bars (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and frost once they are fully thawed.
What other variations can I try?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even raisins to the batter for added texture and flavor. You can also top the bars with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
How to Store and Serve Pumpkin Bars
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are best enjoyed fresh, but they can easily be stored for later. Here’s how to properly store them and ensure they maintain their deliciousness:
Storing Pumpkin Bars:
- In the Refrigerator: These bars contain cream cheese frosting, so it’s best to store them in the refrigerator. Place the bars in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to soften.
- Freezing Pumpkin Bars: If you’d like to freeze your pumpkin bars for later, it’s recommended to freeze them without the frosting. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and frost them once thawed.
Serving Pumpkin Bars:
These pumpkin bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in different ways depending on the occasion:
- Casual snack: Cut into small squares for a bite-sized treat.
- Dessert platter: Arrange them on a dessert tray alongside other fall treats like apple pie, pecan bars, or spiced cookies.
- For parties or gatherings: Consider decorating the top of the bars with festive fall-themed sprinkles or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin
Not only do these Pumpkin Bars taste amazing, but they also offer some surprising health benefits. Here’s why pumpkin is more than just a fall favorite:
- Rich in vitamins: Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and boosts your immune system. It also provides a good amount of vitamin C and vitamin E.
- Low in calories: Despite its natural sweetness, pumpkin is low in calories and fat, making it a great ingredient to use in a variety of baked goods.
- High in fiber: Pumpkin is high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full for longer.
- Packed with antioxidants: Pumpkin contains powerful antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support overall health.
Variations of Pumpkin Bars
While the classic Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a crowd favorite, there are many ways to tweak this recipe to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Chocolate Pumpkin Bars: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, indulgent twist. The combination of chocolate and pumpkin creates a deliciously unique flavor.
- Nutty Pumpkin Bars: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to add some crunch to the bars. The nutty texture complements the soft, moist pumpkin cake beautifully.
- Spiced Pumpkin Bars: If you love strong spice flavors, increase the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in the recipe. You can also add a pinch of ginger or allspice for extra warmth.
- Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bars: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free. Be sure to use a 1:1 gluten-free flour that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
- Vegan Pumpkin Bars: For a vegan version of this recipe, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Use a plant-based cream cheese and butter for the frosting to keep it dairy-free.
Final Thoughts on Pumpkin Bars
Our Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect dessert to welcome fall into your kitchen. With their moist texture, flavorful spices, and rich frosting, these bars will quickly become a go-to recipe for any autumn occasion. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving, a Halloween party, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee on a crisp morning, these pumpkin bars are bound to be a hit.
Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make the recipe your own. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these pumpkin bars are sure to be a standout dessert that you’ll return to year after year.