Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate fall dessert.

These moist, spiced pumpkin bars are topped with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting that’s hard to resist. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy treat at home, these bars bring the flavors of autumn to your table in every bite.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray

Ingredients Overview

• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient for a moist and flavorful base.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves provide warm, seasonal flavors.
• Cream Cheese: For a smooth, tangy frosting that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the pumpkin puree.
4. Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
6. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix until creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Frost the Bars: Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
8. Serve: Cut into squares and serve.

Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened cream cheese and butter for a smooth frosting.
• Spice Substitution: If you have pumpkin pie spice, it can replace the individual spices.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Hot Beverages: Pair with a cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the side adds an extra touch of decadence.
• Seasonal Treats: Serve alongside other fall favorites like caramel apples or pecan pie.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pumpkin puree works just as well. Make sure it’s well-drained and smooth.

Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, freeze them without frosting in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.