Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of pumpkin and cream cheese. These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting bring together the rich, warm flavors of fall with the creamy sweetness of homemade frosting. Whether you’re looking for a delicious fall dessert or a festive treat for Thanksgiving, this recipe is your go-to option.

In this expanded guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from ingredients to baking tips, storage suggestions, and the nutritional benefits of these tasty bars. By the end, you’ll be ready to bake like a pro and enjoy a perfectly spiced, irresistibly frosted pumpkin treat.

Why Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Are a Fall Favorite

With pumpkin as a key ingredient, these bars offer more than just a seasonal treat. Pumpkin is not only packed with flavor but also boasts health benefits, such as being rich in vitamin A and antioxidants. And let’s not forget the cream cheese frosting, which adds a silky, slightly tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin base.

Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a potluck, or a cozy weekend at home, these bars are quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they store well, making them a great make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients Breakdown for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make these Pumpkin Bars so flavorful.

For the Pumpkin Bars:

Eggs: Provides structure and richness to the bars.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bars and helps with moisture retention.
Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture, keeping the bars soft and tender.
Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show, providing flavor, moisture, and a dose of nutrients.

All-purpose Flour: The base of the bars, offering structure.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the bars rise.
Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves): These are the traditional fall spices that bring warmth and depth to the bars.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Cream Cheese: Adds richness and tang, balancing the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: Combines with the cream cheese for a smooth, creamy texture.

Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it too heavy.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a hint of sweetness and flavor depth.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall texture and flavor of the bars, so be sure to follow the recipe closely for the best results.

Step-by-Step Directions for Perfect Pumpkin Bars

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure that the pumpkin bars don’t stick and come out cleanly.

2. Prepare the Pumpkin Bar Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree. Whisk until smooth and well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined.

Pro Tip: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense, tough bars instead of light, fluffy ones.

3. Bake the Pumpkin Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars cool, it’s time to make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is well combined and free of lumps.

5. Frost the Pumpkin Bars

Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts on top. Cut the bars into squares, serve, and enjoy!

Notes and Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bars

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting turn out perfect every time:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Spice Customization: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you love cinnamon, don’t be afraid to add a little extra!

Make-Ahead Option: You can make the bars a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Frost them just before serving for a fresh finish.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

While Pumpkin Bars might seem indulgent, they do offer some nutritional perks thanks to the pumpkin. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune function. It also contains fiber, which aids in digestion, and antioxidants that can help combat inflammation.

However, it’s important to note that these bars are still a sweet treat, so enjoy them in moderation.

Nutrition Details per Serving:

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 245 kcal

Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 12 g

Saturated Fat: 6 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg
Sodium: 220 mg

Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 20 g
Vitamin A: 60% DV

Calcium: 4% DV
Iron: 4% DV

FAQs About Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Can I Use Canned Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Puree?

No, canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which will alter the flavor and texture of the bars. It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe.

How Long Do Pumpkin Bars Last?

Stored in the fridge in an airtight container, these bars will stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum, and follow the rest of the recipe as written.

Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese Frosting?

If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can substitute it with a simple vanilla buttercream or even a maple glaze for a seasonal twist.

How Do I Know When the Pumpkin Bars Are Done?

The best way to check if the bars are done is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready. If there’s batter on the toothpick, give them a few more minutes.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a perfect blend of warm spices and creamy goodness, making them an ideal fall dessert. This recipe is easy to follow, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure that your bars turn out moist, flavorful, and beautifully frosted every time.

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or as a weekday treat, these bars are sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of baking these delightful pumpkin bars.

With their irresistible combination of flavors and textures, it’s no wonder they’ve become a fall favorite!

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