Save to Pinterest Moist, warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting—an irresistibly cozy fall treat perfect for any gathering.
This has quickly become my go-to fall dessert to share with friends and family at gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Pumpkin Bars: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- For the Brown Sugar Frosting: 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter softened, 4 ounces cream cheese softened, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 to 4 tablespoons milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350℉ (175℃). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Add Pumpkin:
- Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Add Nuts:
- Fold in walnuts or pecans if using.
- Prepare Batter:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Make Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugars:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla:
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add Milk:
- Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost Bars:
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Save to Pinterest These bars are a family favorite during fall gatherings and never last more than a day at our house.
Required Tools
9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer or hand mixer, spatula, wire cooling rack, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter cream cheese), tree nuts (if using walnuts or pecans). Always verify ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 310, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 43 g, Protein: 3 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This pumpkin bar recipe combines classic fall flavors with a creamy frosting, perfect for cozy occasions.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute the nuts in these bars?
Yes, you can omit nuts or swap walnuts for pecans depending on preference or allergies. Both add a pleasant texture.
- → How do I prevent the frosting from melting?
Allow the bars to cool completely before spreading frosting to avoid melting and ensure a smooth, creamy finish.
- → Is there a way to make these bars lighter?
Substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat while maintaining moisture and tenderness.
- → What spices are used in the bars?
The bars include ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a warm and cozy spice profile perfect for fall.
- → How should these bars be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
- → Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?
It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree, as pie filling contains added spices and sugars that alter the texture and flavor.