These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delectable treat that perfectly blends the warm flavors of fall with a creamy, indulgent twist. Each bar features a moist and spiced pumpkin base, rich with the comforting taste of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The pumpkin’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting, which is made from smooth cream cheese, a touch of butter, and a hint of vanilla.
The result is a delightful contrast between the dense, spiced cake and the velvety, tangy frosting that melts in your mouth. Topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel, these bars are an irresistible dessert for any autumn gathering or a cozy night in. Ideal for serving at parties or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, these pumpkin bars are sure to become a favorite fall staple.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Bars:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk or heavy cream (optional, for adjusting consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the Pumpkin Bars:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined and smooth.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- If the frosting is too thick, add milk or cream a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Frost the Pumpkin Bars:
- Once the pumpkin bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips
- Cooling: Make sure the pumpkin bars are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a small amount of milk or cream to loosen it. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Flavor Boost: For added flavor, consider mixing in a small amount of maple syrup or a pinch of sea salt into the frosting.
- Storage: Store the frosted pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They typically stay fresh for about a week.
Enjoy your Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting! They’re perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or a sweet treat any time of year.
