Dreamy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Cozy autumn afternoons inspire me to whip up delectable pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting that bring instant comfort.

Warm spices dance through each tender square, creating memories of harvest gatherings.

Sweet pumpkin mingles with rich cream cheese, promising a dessert that melts in your mouth.

Soft textures and deep flavors combine effortlessly in this simple treat.

Seasonal ingredients shine in every bite, revealing why this recipe becomes an instant classic.

Cinnamon and nutmeg whisper hints of nostalgia while keeping things delightfully modern.

I promise these bars will become your new fall favorite – so preheat that oven and let’s bake magic together!

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Sift dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, uniform texture in your pumpkin bars.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for the frosting to achieve a silky, spreadable consistency that blends effortlessly.
• Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting of the bars without sticking.
• Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center – it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
• For a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Variations for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bars: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Pumpkin Squares: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and coconut oil instead of butter for plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reduce overall sugar content for diabetic-friendly dessert.
• Spiced Autumn Variation: Add extra warming spices like cardamom, nutmeg, and ginger to enhance the traditional pumpkin flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Fall Family Dessert Platter: Arrange pumpkin bars on a rustic wooden board with cinnamon sticks, whole pecans, and a dusting of powdered sugar for a cozy autumn presentation.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Slice bars into smaller squares, garnish with a light drizzle of caramel sauce, and serve alongside hot coffee or spiced apple cider for a delightful morning treat.
• Potluck Favorite: Cut bars into bite-sized pieces, place in decorative paper liners, and create a grab-and-go dessert tray that's perfect for casual gatherings and holiday parties.
• Dessert Gift Idea: Package individual bars in clear cellophane bags tied with autumn-colored ribbons, creating a homemade edible gift that friends and family will adore.

How to Store Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Store leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Cover the bars with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
• Refrigeration helps maintain the cream cheese frosting's texture and prevents bacterial growth.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars (without frosting) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

FAQs

• Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can! Simply roast, puree, and strain fresh pumpkin to replace canned puree in equal measurements.

• How do I know when the pumpkin bars are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center – if it comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs, the bars are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and moist.

• Is it necessary to refrigerate the cream cheese frosting?

Yes, cream cheese frosting contains dairy and should be refrigerated. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Why Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Are a Favorite

• Bake with Seasonal Comfort: Dive into the warm, cozy flavors of autumn with these pumpkin bars that capture the essence of the season in every delightful bite.
• Create Without Complexity: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe offers simple steps that guarantee success, making it an approachable dessert for novice and experienced cooks alike.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Guaranteed to be a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday parties, these bars bring smiles and satisfaction with their rich pumpkin taste and creamy frosting.
• Quick Sweet Solution: Minimal preparation and straightforward ingredients mean you can satisfy sweet cravings without spending hours in the kitchen, making it an ideal go-to dessert for busy households.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• All-Purpose Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure for the pumpkin bars.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the bars rise and become light and fluffy.
• Ground Cinnamon, Ground Nutmeg, Ground Ginger: Warm spices that enhance the classic pumpkin flavor profile.
• Salt: Balances and intensifies the other flavors in the recipe.

• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and signature pumpkin taste to the bars.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide richness.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures the bars remain moist and tender.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bars and helps create a soft texture.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, tangy base for the frosting.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a creamy texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps thicken the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.

How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven and Get the Baking Pan Ready

Crank up your oven to the right temperature and line a baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to cover the bottom and sides completely. This will help prevent sticking and make removing the bars super easy later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt

Blend these ingredients until they’re perfectly combined and lump-free.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

• Granulated sugar
• Eggs

Whip until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Then gently fold in the pumpkin puree until everything is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars tough.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place in the preheated oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Down the Bars

Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial for getting the perfect texture and making frosting easier.

Step 7: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

• Cream cheese
• Butter
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

Blend until the frosting is silky smooth and free of any lumps.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once the bars are totally cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top.

Use an offset spatula for the smoothest finish. Slice into squares and get ready to enjoy a delicious treat!

Best Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Delightful pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting bring autumn’s warmth to sweet dessert lovers. Spiced layers of tender cake topped with silky frosting offer comfort in each delectable bite you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs

Spices:

• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Frosting Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring edges are slightly overlapping for easy removal.
2. Sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking soda in a medium mixing bowl, creating a uniform dry mixture.
3. Whisk vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and eggs in a separate large bowl until the mixture becomes pale and slightly frothy.
4. Fold pumpkin puree into the sugar-egg mixture, stirring until completely incorporated and creating a smooth, orange-hued batter.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined without overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
6. Transfer batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread evenly and create a smooth surface.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with minimal crumbs.
8. Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely on a wire rack for approximately 1 hour.
9. Blend softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the frosting becomes silky and free of lumps.
10. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the cooled pumpkin bars using an offset spatula.
11. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to set the frosting, then slice into squares and serve.

Notes

• Swap out regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version without compromising texture.
• Lower sugar content by using monk fruit sweetener or reducing overall sugar quantity while maintaining moisture.
• Add warm spices like cardamom or nutmeg to enhance the pumpkin’s deep, earthy flavor profile.
• Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center – it should come out with minimal moist crumbs for perfectly baked bars.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg