The aroma of pumpkin bars fills the air, wrapping you in a warm and cozy hug. Imagine buttery, spiced goodness melting in your mouth, with a creamy frosting that dances on your taste buds. festive Halloween desserts Yes, these delightful treats are not just desserts; they are pure autumn magic. cheesecake brownie indulgence. For more inspiration, check out this chocolate dessert recipes recipe.

Every fall, I whip up a batch of pumpkin bars to celebrate sweater weather and family gatherings. My friends and family can’t resist sneaking a piece (or three) before dinner. perfect party snacks These bars are perfect for chilly evenings, tailgate parties, or simply to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite shows.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pumpkin bars recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for bakers of all levels
- The flavor combination of spices and pumpkin creates a warm comfort food experience
- Visually appealing with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they will impress anyone you serve
- Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home!
I once made these for a family gathering, and my uncle asked if he could take the leftovers home – I had to hide them from him!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Pumpkin: Use 100% pure pumpkin puree for rich flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling for better control over sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works great here; sift it for a fluffier texture.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; you can substitute half with brown sugar for extra depth.
- Baking Powder: Fresh baking powder is essential to ensure those bars rise perfectly.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives warmth; feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for extra spice.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier texture.
- Vegetable Oil: Oil keeps the bars moist; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Cream Cheese: For frosting, use full-fat cream cheese for richness; let it soften before mixing.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetener blends smoothly into the frosting; sift it first for lump-free results.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings everything together beautifully in both the bars and frosting.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and any additional spices until combined. The aroma will make you feel like autumn has arrived.
- In another bowl, mix canned pumpkin, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This velvety mixture should look inviting enough to dive right into!
- Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while gently folding until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—those fluffy bars depend on it!
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the pumpkin bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Meanwhile, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread this heavenly frosting on top once cooled.
Enjoy every bite of these delicious pumpkin bars! They are sure to become a staple in your home during fall festivities! delicious festive drinks.
You Must Know
- Pumpkin bars are an autumn delight, combining sweetness with a hint of spice
- They are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or family dinners
- The aroma of pumpkin and warm spices will fill your kitchen, making it feel like fall
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then blend in wet ones for smooth batter.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. A cream cheese frosting makes them irresistible!
Storing & Reheating
Store pumpkin bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave if desired.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for richer flavor; canned works but lacks depth
- Make sure not to overmix the batter, as it can lead to dense bars
- Always test doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done
It was during a family gathering when I first brought these pumpkin bars, and they disappeared faster than I could say “pumpkin spice.”
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin for my pumpkin bars?
Yes, but fresh pumpkin puree gives better flavor and texture.
How long should I bake my pumpkin bars?
Bake for about 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
What is the best way to frost pumpkin bars?
A cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly, adding richness and balance.

Pumpkin Bars
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- Author: Mery Mack
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with these delightful pumpkin bars, featuring a rich and spiced pumpkin flavor topped with creamy frosting. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, these bars are not just a treat but an experience that celebrates the essence of fall.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, folding gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before frosting with a mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg






