There is something incredibly comforting about these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that feels like fall baked right into every bite. The rich, moist pumpkin-infused batter combined with the luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting creates a dessert that’s perfect for gatherings, cozy nights, or anytime you crave a truly satisfying treat. This recipe is a wonderful blend of warm spices, smooth texture, and sweet creaminess that makes these bars utterly irresistible and an instant favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is delightfully simple, and each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From velvety pumpkin to aromatic cinnamon and sweet frosting, these essentials will bring your dessert to life.
- 1 cup butter, at room temperature: Provides richness and moisture to the cake base for a tender crumb.
- 1 â…” cup sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps with the perfect golden color.
- 4 eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure to the bars.
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin (or squash): The star ingredient that lends moisture, flavor, and that iconic seasonal taste.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Creates the foundation for a soft, yet sturdy bar.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: Adds warm spice that enhances the pumpkin’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the batter rise and keeps the texture light.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda for optimal leavening.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and boosts all the flavors.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Essential for that creamy, tangy frosting topping.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the sweetness of the frosting.
- ½ cup butter, softened: Gives the frosting its smooth, buttery texture.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a perfect spreadable consistency.
How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a large 18×13-inch half-sheet pan. This ensures your pumpkin bars bake evenly and release easily thanks to that little bit of butter coating, setting the stage for a perfectly shaped dessert.
Step 2: Make the Batter
Begin by creaming together the butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the batter, giving the bars a light texture despite their rich ingredients. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time to fully blend the mixture. Stir in the pumpkin to infuse moisture and flavor, followed by folding in the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until everything is smoothly combined. The result is a beautifully fragrant batter that’s ready for baking!
Step 3: Bake the Bars
Pour your batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top for an even bake. Pop it in the oven for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean. This guarantees a fully cooked, tender bar without being dry, perfect for those moist pumpkin bars everyone will love. Allow the bars to cool completely before moving on – this cool-down is key to frosting success.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars cool, whip together the frosting ingredients. Beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is light, fluffy, and easy to spread. The tang of the cream cheese perfectly balances the sweet and spiced pumpkin base, turning these bars into a luscious indulgence.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
Once the bars have cooled to room temperature, generously spread your luscious cream cheese frosting over the top. The contrast of cool, creamy frosting on warm, spiced pumpkin bars is pure magic. Slice into squares and prepare for warm compliments from everyone lucky enough to taste these gems!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe even further, consider sprinkling a bit of chopped toasted pecans, a dusting of cinnamon, or even some mini chocolate chips on top of the frosting. These little accents add texture and visual appeal that make serving these bars feel extra special.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an easy dessert upgrade. For drinks, a warm cup of spiced chai tea, coffee, or even apple cider beautifully complements the cozy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try serving these bars on a rustic wooden board with fresh autumn leaves as decor or layering them in a dessert trifle with whipped cream and toasted nuts. Even cutting them into shapes using cookie cutters can make for delightful seasonal treats perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your pumpkin bars, simply cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep beautifully for up to 5 days and the flavors often deepen, making every bite just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain the best texture and taste.
Reheating
If you prefer your bars slightly warm, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to heat too long or the frosting may soften excessively.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cooked and pureed pumpkin for the canned variety. Just make sure to strain any excess moisture to avoid a too-wet batter.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend in place of regular flour for a naturally gluten-free treat without sacrificing texture.
Can I make the frosting dairy-free?
To keep this recipe dairy-free, try using dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes. The frosting may have a slightly different texture but will still taste wonderful.
How thick should I spread the cream cheese frosting?
The frosting should be spread in a nice, even layer about ¼ to ½ inch thick. This allows the tangy sweetness to balance the pumpkin cake without overpowering it.
What is the best way to cut the bars neatly?
Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to create clean edges and prevent the frosting from sticking and tearing.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. The delightful combination of moist pumpkin cake and creamy frosting is simply irresistible, whether you’re baking for a crowd or a cozy treat to savor at home. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these bars as much as I do – they truly bring the best flavors of the season into every bite!
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Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
Description
These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are moist, flavorful, and perfect for fall gatherings. Combining the warm spices of cinnamon with a rich pumpkin base, topped with a smooth and creamy frosting, they offer a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Bars
- 1 cup butter, at room temperature
- 1 â…” cup sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin (or squash)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 18×13-inch half-sheet pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and light. Add the eggs and mix well until fully combined. Stir in the canned pumpkin, then gradually incorporate the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth, uniform batter.
- Bake the bars: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread it flat. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare the frosting: Using a mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
- Frost and serve: Once the pumpkin bars have fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares to serve and enjoy this delicious seasonal treat!
Notes
- Ensure the pumpkin is pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best flavor and texture.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture.
- Store the frosted bars in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
- If desired, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top of the frosting for extra spice aroma.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
