The smell of pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting wafting through your kitchen is like a warm hug on a chilly fall day. Each bite delivers a delightful balance of spices, sweetness, and creamy decadence that leaves you craving just one more square. Picture this: fluffy, moist pumpkin bars topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, all while the laughter of friends and family fills the air.
I can still remember the first time I made these pumpkin bars for a cozy gathering. The moment I pulled them out of the oven, the entire house transformed into an autumn wonderland. Friends gathered around, eyes wide with anticipation, and as they took their first bites, their delighted expressions said it all—this was going to be a seasonal staple.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These pumpkin bars are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy bakers
- The rich flavor combination of pumpkin and spices will have everyone coming back for seconds
- Their stunning visual appeal makes them a showstopper at any gathering
- Plus, they are versatile enough to serve as dessert or a sweet snack anytime!
You know those moments when you bake something, and everyone’s reaction is pure joy? That was my experience when I shared these bars at a friend’s potluck last year—they disappeared faster than you could say “pumpkin spice.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or homemade puree; just ensure it’s 100% pumpkin for optimal flavor.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener adds balance to the earthy flavors of the pumpkin.
Brown Sugar: For added moisture and depth; dark brown sugar works wonders here.
All-Purpose Flour: A must for structure; sift it for lighter bars.
Baking Powder: Ensure freshness for proper rising; check expiration dates before use.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices elevate the flavor profile—don’t skimp!
Eggs: They provide moisture and bind everything together beautifully.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors in this dish.
Cream Cheese: Softened for easy mixing into that dreamy frosting.
Powdered Sugar: This creates the perfectly sweet cream cheese frosting texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth and complements both the bars and frosting.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Enjoy that rich aroma as you whisk away!
Combining Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. The fragrant spices will start filling your kitchen with a lovely scent.
Bringing it All Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; we want fluffy bars!
Baking: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!
Pumping Up that Frosting: While your bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Spread generously over cooled pumpkin bars like you’re icing a masterpiece!
Now cut those beautiful squares—get ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills! Enjoy these delightful pumpkin bars at holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Remember to savor every bite because they truly embody fall’s warm embrace!
You Must Know
- These pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are an absolute fall delight
- The blend of spices and the creamy topping makes them a seasonal favorite
- Plus, they’re super easy to whip up for gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dry ingredients first, then blend with wet ones until smooth. Pour into a greased baking pan and bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these pumpkin bars by adding nuts for crunch or chocolate chips for sweetness. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to create your perfect flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To enjoy them warm, microwave briefly or let them sit at room temperature before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor; it makes a world of difference
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your bars light and fluffy
- Lastly, allow the frosting to set before cutting for neat slices that impress your guests
Cooking these pumpkin bars takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where we’d bake together while singing silly songs. Those moments always added extra sweetness to anything we made.
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time in preparation.
How do I know when my pumpkin bars are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they are fully baked.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese frosting?
Absolutely! Use cashew cream or coconut yogurt as a delicious dairy-free substitute.
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate fall treat, combining moist pumpkin goodness with a rich, creamy topping. Perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these bars are easy to make and deliver a delightful burst of autumn flavors in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet mixture until just mixed.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before frosting: beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth; spread over cooled bars.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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