Pin 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 quickly became a fall favorite in my household because it balances spice and sweetness beautifully.
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
- Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 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.
- Combine 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 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.
- Frosting Preparation:
- 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:
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars Cut into squares and serve.
Pin My family always gathers around sharing stories and enjoying these bars every fall holiday 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.
Pin These pumpkin bars are the perfect fall dessert whether for weeknight treats or festive gatherings.
Recipe Q&A
- → What spices enhance the flavor of these pumpkin bars?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a warm, spiced flavor profile that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- → Can nuts be added for extra texture?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter to add a pleasant crunch and nutty depth.
- → How do you ensure the frosting doesn't melt?
Let the bars cool completely before spreading the frosting to maintain its creamy texture and appearance.
- → Is it possible to make the bars less oily?
Replacing half the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce lightens the texture while keeping moisture.
- → What tools are recommended for preparation?
Essential tools include a 9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, a whisk, electric mixer, spatula, and cooling rack.
- → How long can the bars be stored?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to five days.