Save Moist warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting—an irresistibly cozy fall treat perfect for any gathering.
I first served this...
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, 2–4 tablespoons milk or cream
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- Step 5:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Step 6:
- Fold in walnuts or pecans, if using.
- Step 7:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 9:
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Step 10:
- For the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 11:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Step 12:
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Step 13:
- Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Step 14:
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Save Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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
Save This pumpkin bar recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings and is easy to make ahead. Enjoy the blend of warm spices and creamy frosting in every bite.
Recipe Questions
- → What spices enhance the pumpkin bars' flavor?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves create a warm, cozy spice blend that complements the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
- → How should I prevent the frosting from melting?
Allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely before evenly spreading the brown sugar cream cheese frosting.
- → Can nuts be added to these bars?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- → What’s a good substitution to reduce oil content?
Replace half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce to lighten the bars without sacrificing moisture.
- → How long do the bars stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain texture and freshness.
- → What baking pan size is recommended?
A 9x13-inch pan ensures even baking and proper thickness for tender bars.