There is something irresistibly cozy about Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting that makes them a perfect treat for any time of year, especially during the crisp fall months. These bars combine the warm spices of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice with a moist, tender crumb, all topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that elevates each bite to pure bliss. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just because you crave a sweet, comforting snack, this recipe delivers on flavor and texture with every slice.

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to create these delightful Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Each item plays a crucial role, from the rich cream cheese lending tang and creaminess to the pumpkin puree that ensures moistness and that vibrant autumnal color.

Eggs (4): They bind the ingredients together and help create a tender crumb.

Granulated sugar (1 2/3 cups): Provides sweetness and moisture to the bars.
Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the texture moist and rich without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.

Pumpkin puree (1 can, 15 ounces): The star of the show that adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that gorgeous orange hue.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon plus extra for frosting): Enhances all the flavors with warm, aromatic notes.

All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the structure for the bars.
Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the bars rise for a light texture.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and depth to the spice mix.

Pumpkin pie spice (2 teaspoons): Brings classic fall spice flavors like nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
Fine sea salt (1 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works with the acidic pumpkin to leaven the bars.

Cream cheese (8-ounce package, softened): The key for that tangy, creamy frosting.
Butter (2 tablespoons, softened): Adds richness to the frosting’s texture.
Powdered sugar (2 to 3 cups, sifted): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.

How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly mist a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your bars come out easily without sticking. This simple step saves you a lot of trouble later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture. This combination forms the moist base that keeps your bars tender.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda thoroughly. Mixing these dry ingredients together ensures even distribution of the leavening and spices, which is critical for consistent flavor and texture.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Pour the dry mixture into the wet pumpkin mixture and stir until everything is just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the bars tender and fluffy rather than dense and tough.

Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Bars

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know the bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack before adding frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars cool, prepare the frosting by blending together softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix in sifted powdered sugar, adjusting the amount to reach your preferred consistency—creamy yet spreadable is best.

Step 7: Frost and Slice

Once the bars reach room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top. Cut into squares, serve, and prepare for compliments because these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting truly steal the spotlight!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Add a touch of elegance or a hint of texture by sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting. Even a few pumpkin seeds can introduce a lovely crunch and make your bars look irresistible.

Side Dishes

Serve your pumpkin bars alongside a steaming cup of hot coffee, spiced chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. The creamy richness of the frosting pairs beautifully with bold, warm beverages that complement the fall flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting your bars into mini squares for bite-sized treats at parties, or layer them with whipped cream and caramel sauce to create a stunning dessert trifle. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with rustic twine also makes for a charming gift presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting keep best when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They maintain their moisture and flavor for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy a slice whenever the craving hits.

Freezing

If you want to save these bars for longer, freeze them without frosting by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then frost before serving for the freshest taste.

Reheating

Since the frosting is best served cool, it’s usually unnecessary to warm these bars. However, if you prefer a warmed bite, gently heat individual unfrosted squares in the microwave for 10–15 seconds and then add fresh frosting or enjoy as is.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, but make sure to cook and puree it thoroughly to match the consistency of canned pumpkin puree. Using fresh pumpkin can add a slightly different flavor but works well with this recipe.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can create your own by mixing cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves in roughly equal parts. This homemade blend will give your Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting the classic warm spice aroma.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars because of the cream cheese frosting?

Yes, it’s best to keep them refrigerated to prevent the frosting from spoiling. Just bring them to room temperature before eating for the best flavor and texture.

Can I substitute the oil for butter in the recipe?

While butter can be used, oil keeps the bars moister and more tender. If you prefer butter, use melted butter but keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.

How thick should I spread the cream cheese frosting?

Spread it generously but evenly, about a quarter-inch thick. The frosting should complement the pumpkin base without overwhelming it, balancing sweetness and tanginess perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to brighten your baking repertoire, you simply must try making these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. They bring together the best flavors of fall with a creamy, dreamy finish that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these bars are sure to become an instant favorite that you’ll come back to again and again.

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 9 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12–16 bars 1x

Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these moist and flavorful Pumpkin Bars topped with a rich and creamy low-fat cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings or a sweet treat any time of year, these bars combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie seasoning with a tender cake texture that is easy to make and sure to impress.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly mist a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely blended and smooth.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, sea salt, and baking soda until evenly combined.
Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet pumpkin mixture. Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to over-mix which can affect the texture.

Bake the Bars: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, stirring until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Frost and Serve: Once the pumpkin bars have cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into bars, serve, and enjoy this delicious treat!

Notes

Ensure pumpkin puree is canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid added sugars and spices.
Do not over-mix the batter to keep the bars tender and moist.
Use room temperature cream cheese and butter to achieve a smooth frosting texture.

For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
Powdered sugar quantity can be adjusted to taste for sweetness and frosting thickness.
Store pumpkin bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

These bars can be frozen without frosting and frosted after thawing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (assuming 12 bars per recipe)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 30g

Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g

Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g

Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: pumpkin bars, pumpkin dessert, cream cheese frosting, fall dessert, pumpkin spice bars, easy pumpkin recipe