Before diving into the delightful world of pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting, let’s talk about what complements this dish. These bars are versatile and pair well with a variety of options that can elevate your fall gatherings. Consider these favorites:
- Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea balances the spices in the pumpkin bars beautifully. The sweet and spicy notes enhance the dessert experience.
- Coffee: A rich, brewed cup of coffee or an espresso can bring out the flavors of the cream cheese frosting and pumpkin.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream provides a refreshing contrast in temperature and texture, creating a heavenly combination.
- Spiced Wine: Mulled wine is perfect for fall gatherings and adds a warm, aromatic touch to your plate.
- Cheese Board: Add some sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese on a simple cheese board. The flavors contrast nicely with the sweetness of the bars.
Now, let’s jump into the delicious details.
As autumn rolls in, so does the craving for everything pumpkin. I remember the first time I made pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting. The aroma wafted through my kitchen, making my family eagerly anticipate that first bite. These bars are not just any dessert; they scream fall with every flavorful crumb.
Imagine biting into a soft, moist bar infused with pumpkin spice, topped with rich cream cheese frosting. It’s comfort food at its finest and a crowd-pleaser you simply can’t resist.
In this blog, I’ll share everything you need to know about making delightful pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting. We’ll explore why you’ll love this recipe, what ingredients you’ll need, and provide step-by-step directions. Plus, I’ll throw in some handy tips, storage advice, and answers to frequently asked questions. Ready? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
What Are Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are soft, moist cake-like desserts made primarily with pumpkin puree, spices, and are crowned with a sweet cream cheese frosting. The combination hits all the right notes—sweet, spiced, and creamy.
These bars are perfect for snacking, entertaining, or potluck gatherings. Unlike traditional pies, these bars are easy to cut and serve to a group. They blend the wholesome nature of pumpkin with the indulgence of cream cheese frosting—a true fall classic!
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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
You might wonder, “What’s so special about pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting?” Well, let me break it down for you:
- Flavor Explosion: The warm spices—think cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—create a cozy flavor profile that feels like a hug in dessert form. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness.
- Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require any fancy techniques or equipment. Just mix, bake, and frost—it’s that simple! Even novice bakers can nail this recipe on their first try.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a Thanksgiving feast, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these pumpkin bars are sure to impress. They’re easy to transport and serve.
- Nutritious Twist: Pumpkin is packed with nutrients. It provides a good source of vitamins A and C—so you can feel a bit better about indulging. Plus, the addition of cream cheese gives a little tang to the sweetness.
- Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients or toppings to suit your tastes. Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Now, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Pumpkin Bars:
- 1 (15-ounce) can pure pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It provides moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor.
- 1 2/3 cups white granulated sugar: Sweetness is essential! Adjust to taste if desired.
- 1 cup mild vegetable oil: You can swap this with avocado or a light olive oil for a healthier option.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder and 1 teaspoon baking soda: These leavening agents help your bars rise and achieve a fluffy texture.
- 2 cups plain all-purpose flour: The base for the bars, creating that perfect cake-like consistency.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: A must-have for that warm fall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds an extra layer of spice warmth.
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 (8-ounce) package low-fat cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for our frosting.
- 2 to 3 cups sifted powdered sugar: This will depend on how sweet you like your frosting; adjust accordingly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness to the frosting.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: This little kick brightens the frosting flavor.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Again, to deepen the flavor.
Directions
Follow these detailed steps to make your pumpkin bars:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine canned pumpkin puree, sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well blended. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Make sure not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pour your mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; oven temperatures can vary.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar, mixing well. Then stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and creamy.
Step 7: Frost the Bars
Once your pumpkin bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a spatula. You can even sprinkle some cinnamon on top for extra flair or post-frosting decadence.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy these delicious treats with your favorite pairing.
Notes
Here are some tips I picked up during my baking adventures:
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the pumpkin bars to cool fully before frosting. A warm bar can lead to melted frosting, which is not what we’re after.
- Flour Sifting: Sift your flour and powdered sugar to avoid lumps in your frosting.
- Egg Temperature: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. They blend more easily with other ingredients.
- Taste Test: Always taste your frosting; adjust the sugar to meet your sweetness preference.
- Decorate Smartly: You can add chopped pecans or walnuts as a topping for added texture.
Storage Tips
If you’re making these pumpkin bars ahead of time or have leftovers, here are some storage options:
- At Room Temperature: If you plan to consume them within a day or so, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
- In the Fridge: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge. They can last up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, slice the bars and place them between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll be good for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Nutrition Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per pumpkin bar (assuming 24 bars with frosting):
This is just a ballpark; your results might vary based on substituted ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some creative ways to serve pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting:
- Garnish with Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add crunch and flavor.
- Pair with Coffee: Serve with a steaming cup of coffee for a delightful treat.
- Make a Layered Dessert: Cube the bars and layer them in a trifle dish with whipped cream and more pumpkin puree for an elegant touch.
- Use as a Base for Ice Cream Sundaes: Crumble the bars into bowls and top with ice cream and chocolate sauce.
- Festive Plate Setting: Arrange pumpkin bars on a beautiful platter, garnish with fresh sage or mint, and serve at your autumn gatherings.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Sometimes, you might not have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some substitutes to consider:
- Pumpkin Puree: Butternut squash puree can work as an excellent alternative. It’s sweet and has a similar consistency.
- Vegetable Oil: Applesauce can serve as a lower-fat alternative. Use a 1:1 ratio.
- Granulated Sugar: Consider coconut sugar or honey. If using honey, reduce the liquid in your recipe slightly.
- Low-fat Cream Cheese: For a lighter frosting, try Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese replacement.
- Bakery Flour: If you’re aiming for whole grain, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour. You may need to increase the moisture slightly.
Equipment
- oven
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Bars:
- 1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It provides moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor.
- 1 2/3 cups white granulated sugar: Sweetness is essential! Adjust to taste if desired.
- 1 cup mild vegetable oil: You can swap this with avocado or a light olive oil for a healthier option.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder and 1 teaspoon baking soda: These leavening agents help your bars rise and achieve a fluffy texture.
- 2 cups plain all-purpose flour: The base for the bars creating that perfect cake-like consistency.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: A must-have for that warm fall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds an extra layer of spice warmth.
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 8-ounce package low-fat cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for our frosting.
- 2 to 3 cups sifted powdered sugar: This will depend on how sweet you like your frosting; adjust accordingly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened: Adds richness to the frosting.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: This little kick brightens the frosting flavor.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Again to deepen the flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine canned pumpkin puree, sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well blended. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Make sure not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
- Pour your mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; oven temperatures can vary.
Step 5: Cool Down
- Once baked, remove the bars from the oven. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar, mixing well. Then stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and creamy.
Step 7: Frost the Bars
- Once your pumpkin bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a spatula. You can even sprinkle some cinnamon on top for extra flair or post-frosting decadence.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
- Cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy these delicious treats with your favorite pairing.
Notes
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the pumpkin bars to cool fully before frosting. A warm bar can lead to melted frosting, which is not what we’re after.
- Flour Sifting: Sift your flour and powdered sugar to avoid lumps in your frosting.
- Egg Temperature: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. They blend more easily with other ingredients.
- Taste Test: Always taste your frosting; adjust the sugar to meet your sweetness preference.
- Decorate Smartly: You can add chopped pecans or walnuts as a topping for added texture.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions I often hear:
1. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture will be slightly different, but they will still taste great.
2. How can I make these bars less sweet?
Easily done. Reduce the sugar in both the pumpkin bar mixture and the frosting. You can also use a sugar substitute designed for baking.
3. Can I add chocolate chips to the bars?
Definitely! Chocolate chips are a fantastic addition. Fold in about 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
4. What if I have leftover frosting?
Store it in a sealed container in the fridge for about 1 week. You can use it on other baked goods or as a dip for fruit!
5. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to roast and puree the pumpkin beforehand. Aim for a similar texture to canned pumpkin puree in order to maintain the moisture balance.
6. How do I know when my bars are done baking?
You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready. If wet batter clings to the toothpick, give them a little more time.
Conclusion
Making pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that your friends and family will rave about.
These bars are soft, sweet, and topped with a creamy frosting that adds the perfect finish. They can stand up to any dessert table, making them a fantastic choice for gatherings throughout the season. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or as a sweet end to a festive meal, they are sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of pumpkin spice fill your home as you bake up a batch of these delicious treats. Happy baking!