These Pumpkin Bars are moist, perfectly spiced, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. A perfect treat for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or when you’re craving a cozy dessert with the flavors of pumpkin and warm spices!
Author:Stephanie
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:16 bars 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American, Fall-Inspired
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pumpkin Bars:
1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Make the Pumpkin Bars:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
Frost the Bars:
Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled pumpkin bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Add flavor: Add 1/4 tsp of allspice or cloves for extra warmth.
Make it lighter: Substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.