Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect fall dessert. These bars are soft, fluffy, and full of warm autumn flavors like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting, they’re a wonderful treat for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or holiday events. They’re easy to make, using canned pumpkin puree and pantry staples, and come together in just 45 minutes. The cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, sweet finish that pairs perfectly with the spiced pumpkin base. These bars are sure to be a hit at any fall celebration!

INGREDIENTS

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups
• Baking powder: 1 ½ tsp
• Baking soda: 1 tsp
• Cinnamon: 1 tsp
• Ground ginger: ½ tsp
• Nutmeg: ¼ tsp
• Ground cloves: ¼ tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Sugar: 1 cup
• Vegetable oil: ½ cup
• Pumpkin puree: 1 cup, canned
• Eggs: 2 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened (for frosting)
• Butter: ¼ cup, softened (for frosting)
• Powdered sugar: 2 cups (for frosting)
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp (for frosting)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Step 3:

In a separate large bowl, beat together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 5:

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6:

Let the bars cool completely before frosting.

Step 7:

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

Step 8:

Spread the frosting over the cooled pumpkin bars and cut into squares before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Let the bars cool completely before adding the frosting to avoid melting.
• Store the pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Helpful Notes

• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of maple syrup to the frosting.
• If you want extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef's Tip: To make the frosting extra smooth, let the cream cheese and butter come to room temperature before mixing.

FAQs

Can I make these pumpkin bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the bars a day ahead and frost them just before serving.

How do I store leftover pumpkin bars?

Store the pumpkin bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze these pumpkin bars?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before frosting and serving.

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Conclusion

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, spiced bars that are perfect for fall gatherings. Made with canned pumpkin and warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, these bars are moist and flavorful. The creamy cream cheese frosting adds a rich, sweet layer that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin base. This dessert is easy to make and perfect for sharing at autumn parties or holiday dinners. For extra crunch, you can sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting. Be sure to let the bars cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the creamy topping!