Are you looking for a deliciously easy treat that combines the warm, cozy flavors of fall in a single bite? Look no further than Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting! These delightful bars are moist, flavorful, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that takes them to the next level. They’re perfect for gatherings, snack time, or even a cozy night in with loved ones.
Interestingly, Libby’s pumpkin puree is a household name that makes pumpkin-based recipes a breeze! The great news is that these bars require minimal preparation time, which means you don’t need to be a baking expert to enjoy them. They’re family-friendly and sure to become a favorite in your home—much like other easy desserts you might find in our blog. With their friendly flavors, your family will be inviting you to make them over and over again. So, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started!
What are Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars?
So, what’s in a name, right? You might wonder why these delightful desserts are called “Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars.” Picture this: a simple yellow can of pumpkin puree bearing the Libby’s logo sits on the grocery store shelf like a beacon of autumn goodness. This recipe takes that humble can and transforms it into a tray of sweet, soft pumpkin bars. Who doesn’t love a dessert that’s just as sweet as it is easy?
It’s almost like saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but in this case, it could very well be a family’s heart! The beauty of it lies in the simplicity and the incredible taste—once you try it, you’ll see why it deserves a place in your recipe repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are three key reasons why Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars should be at the top of your recipe list this season. First and foremost, the standout flavor! Each bite of these bars is packed with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, perfectly complementing the sweet pumpkin.
Secondly, when you make these at home, you save money. Instead of spending on pricey store-bought desserts, impress your family and friends with a batch of these delightful bars without breaking the bank!
Finally, the creamy frosting takes these pumpkin bars over the top. Its rich cream cheese texture balances the spices beautifully, making every bite a harmonious experience. If you’re exploring more tasty options, be sure to check out our other dessert recipes that bring joy to the table! Now, let’s delve into how to make these scrumptious bars!
How to Make Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars
Quick Overview
Making Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars is straightforward and a lot of fun. You’ll be mixing ingredients, spreading batter in a pan, and baking away! In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s warm and inviting. Whether it’s a weekday treat or a gathering of friends, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Key Ingredients for Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 can (15 oz) of Libby’s pumpkin puree
- Granulated Sugar: 2 cups for a hint of welcome sweetness
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup to deepen the flavors
- Vegetable Oil: 1 cup for moisture
- Eggs: 4 large to bind everything together
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups for the base
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons for that light texture
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon to add some lift
- Salt: 1 teaspoon to balance sweetness
- Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons for a warm, spicy touch
- Ground Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened, for the frosting
- Powdered Sugar: 2 cups for sweetness in the frosting
- Milk: 2-4 tablespoons to achieve desired frosting consistency
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for ultimate flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a sheet pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well. Then, add the eggs and beat until nicely combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk it together so that the spices are distributed evenly.
- Blend Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. This batter should be thick but pourable.
- Spread and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bars: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the bars cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and gradually add powdered sugar. Pour in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost and Serve: Once the bars are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars
- Ingredient Swap: If you can’t find Libby’s pumpkin, any pure pumpkin puree works, but avoid pumpkin pie filling to skip added sugars and spices.
- Storage: If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Experiment with Spices: You can add cloves or allspice to the mix for an extra flavor boost.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your delicious pumpkin bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They remain tasty for up to four days, making them perfect for enjoying later! If you want to share the love, these pumpkin bars can be frozen too. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a bite, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and they’ll be just as delightful as when you first made them.
Now that you’re equipped with everything you need, it’s time to dive into making Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Trust me; your family will thank you for this wonderful addition to your dessert rotation! Happy baking!
Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Bars
- 1 can 15 oz Libby’s pumpkin puree
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil for moisture
- 4 large eggs to bind the ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour for the base
- 2 teaspoons baking powder for light texture
- 1 teaspoon baking soda to add lift
- 1 teaspoon salt to balance sweetness
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon for warmth
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened for frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar for sweetness in frosting
- 2-4 tablespoons milk to achieve desired frosting consistency
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a sheet pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well, then add eggs and beat until combined.
- In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk together.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Frosting
- In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese, then gradually add powdered sugar.
- Pour in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable.
Serving
- Once the bars are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.
- Slice into squares and enjoy!
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