Save Moist, warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting—an irresistibly cozy fall treat perfect for any gathering.
This recipe has become a seasonal favorite in my family, bringing warmth and comfort to every gathering.
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 These pumpkin bars always bring my family together, creating sweet memories every fall season.
Notes
For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle additional chopped nuts on top of the frosted bars. For a lighter version, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
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.
Save Enjoy these bars fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe FAQ
- → What spices enhance the pumpkin bars?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create the warm, cozy flavor profile in the pumpkin bars.
- → Can nuts be added to these bars?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- → How should the bars be cooled before frosting?
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to prevent the frosting from melting.
- → What ingredients create the brown sugar frosting?
The frosting is made with softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a bit of milk or cream for smoothness.
- → How can the texture be lightened in these bars?
Substitute half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce to create a lighter texture.
- → How long can the bars be stored?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.