7-Step Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: The Ultimate Fall Treat!

Looking for the perfect dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall? These Pumpkin Bars are soft, spiced, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting—making them the ultimate seasonal treat! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, these bars are easy to make and impossible to resist. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients and Preparation Steps

What You’ll Need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 cups canned pumpkin
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups white sugar
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9×13-inch pans and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Next, in a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

After, in a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin, vegetable oil, eggs, and sugar until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Then, add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in the walnuts if using.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Finally, spread the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting over the cooled pumpkin bars. For a festive touch, sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or chopped pecans before serving.

The Best Time to Enjoy Your Pumpkin Bars

These Pumpkin Bars are perfect for any fall occasion! Serve them at holiday gatherings, pack them for a seasonal picnic, or enjoy them as a sweet treat with a cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte. Their warm spices and creamy frosting make them a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

For a complete fall dessert spread, pair them with Pumpkin Cheesecake or Pumpkin Bread Pudding. These bars are sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Bars

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s smooth and not too watery. Canned pumpkin is preferred for its consistency.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake the bars and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Frost them just before serving.

Can I freeze pumpkin bars?

Yes, you can freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans, almonds, or omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bars

Want to make your Pumpkin Bars even more irresistible? Here are some expert tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the eggs, cream cheese, and butter to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth batter and frosting.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the bars dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Add Extra Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to the batter.
4. Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack before adding the frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.
5. Customize the Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, a drizzle of caramel, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Pumpkin Bars to keep them tasting fresh:

• Storage: Store frosted bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Let the bars come to room temperature before serving, or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted bars in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.

Perfect Pairings for Pumpkin Bars

Looking for the perfect dishes to serve alongside your Pumpkin Bars? Here are some delicious pairings to complete your fall spread:

• Hot Beverages: Enjoy with a cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte or Golden Milk for a cozy treat.
• Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Other Fall Desserts: Pair with Pumpkin Cheesecake or Pumpkin Bread Pudding for a festive dessert table.
• Savory Dishes: Balance the sweetness with savory dishes like Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef or Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake.
• Brunch Spread: Add to a brunch spread with Classic Waffles or Fluffy Bisquick Pancakes.

We hope you enjoyed making and savoring these Pumpkin Bars as much as we did! These soft, spiced bars with creamy frosting are the ultimate fall treat, perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a sweet snack. Their warm flavors and easy preparation make them a must-have for your seasonal recipe collection.

Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, tips, or variations in the comments below. Did you add extra spices, swap the frosting, or try a creative topping? Let us know how it turned out!

For more fall-inspired recipes, check out our Pumpkin Cheesecake or our Pumpkin Bread Pudding. And if you’re in the mood for more baking ideas, don’t miss our Banana Pumpkin Bread or Cranberry Brie Bites.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! Tag us on social media using #PumpkinBars and let us know how it turned out. For more exclusive recipes and baking tips, subscribe to our newsletter below. Happy baking!

Emma,
The Recipe Team