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Pumpkin Bars

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a bunch of pumpkin bars
Pumpkin bars combine warm fall spices with a rich cream cheese frosting, making them an easy and delicious treat for any occasion. Ready in just 40 minutes, theyโ€™re perfect for everything from family gatherings to holiday potlucks.
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Table of Contents
  1. Pumpkin Bars Ingredients
  2. Substitutions and Additions for Classic Pumpkin Bars
  3. How to Make Pumpkin Bars
  4. Pumpkin Spice Bars – Troubleshooting Tips
  5. How to Serve
  6. How to Store Pumpkin Bars
  7. Why This Pumpkin Bars Recipe Is The Best
  8. Pumpkin Bars Frequently Asked Questions
  9. More Delicious Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Love
  10. JUMP TO RECIPE
  11. Even More Recipes You’ll Love

These pumpkin bars capture the essence of fall, combining the warmth of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with the smooth richness of pumpkin. We specifically chose the ingredients in this recipe for their consistency and easy availability, so your fall dessert has the perfect texture every time. 

a slice of Pumpkin Bar on a plate
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This recipe isn’t just about great flavor—it’s designed to be straightforward and accessible, so anyone can enjoy the process as much as the result.

Our recipe development is grounded in extensive testing and experience, with an emphasis on making sure that every step is clear and easy to follow. We take pride in providing recipes that work every time, so you can experiment in the kitchen with confidence.

From the ideal ratio of spices to the perfect bake time, we’ve fine-tuned each detail to create pumpkin bars that are moist and flavorful. To make this dessert even more tempting, we’ve topped our pumpkin bars with a cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the spiced base. 

You can trust our expertise because we’ve spent years refining our approach to baking. Every tip and instruction we offer is based on practical knowledge and a commitment to helping you succeed. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you to create a dessert that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Pumpkin Bars Ingredients

Pumpkin Bars raw ingredients that are labeled

These pumpkin bars are your go-to for a classic fall treat that brings together the rich taste of pumpkin and the warm notes of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and sure to become a staple in your seasonal baking lineup.

You’ll Need:

For the Pumpkin Bars

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¾ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 15 ounce can 100% pure pumpkin puree 
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup canola oil
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutions and Additions for Classic Pumpkin Bars

If you need to adjust the recipe based on what you have on hand or personal preferences, there are several substitutions and additions you can make. These suggestions will allow you to customize the flavors while keeping the integrity of the pumpkin bars intact. Just keep in mind that any changes may alter the taste and texture, so proceed based on your preferences.

Substitutions:

All-Purpose Flour: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still hold together well.

Canola Oil: You can substitute melted coconut oil or vegetable oil for canola oil. Coconut oil will add a subtle coconut flavor, while vegetable oil will maintain a neutral taste.

Light Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses. This will give a similar depth of flavor.

Heavy Cream: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use milk instead. The frosting may be a bit less rich, but it will still spread smoothly.

Pumpkin Pie Puree: We love using Libby’s puree as it’s consistent and creamy every time. Make sure you don’t use pumpkin pie mix or filling, as it is already seasoned and sweetened and won’t work well for this recipe.

Additions:

  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you prefer a more complex spice mix, substitute the cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice. This blend adds a broader range of flavors in one step.
  • Chopped Nuts: Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter before baking for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.
  • Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter variation, mix in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. They’ll melt into the bars, adding rich chocolatey bursts. 
  • Orange Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a citrusy twist that brightens up the overall taste.

How to Make Pumpkin Bars

Making our pumpkin squares recipe is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in a delicious treat that’s perfect for any fall gathering. 

This guide will provide plenty of step-by-step instructions, helpful photos, and Pro Tips along the way. Let’s walk through each step of this easy recipe to make sure your pumpkin bars turn out perfectly.

STEP ONE: Preheat your oven and spray a metal baking pan with non-stick baker’s spray. You can line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper if you wish. This will help the bars release easily after baking, so you get clean, even slices.

PRO TIP: It’s essential to let the oven reach the right temperature before you start baking to make sure the bars cook evenly. 

STEP TWO: In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. 

all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg combined in a bowl

STEP THREE: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pure pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until completely combined. Make sure the mixture is smooth and the sugars are fully dissolved into the pumpkin. This will help the bars bake up with a consistent texture and sweetness.

pure pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar combined in a bowl

STEP FOUR: Add the canola oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl of wet ingredients. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the eggs are fully incorporated. The batter should be glossy and well-mixed, with no streaks of oil or egg visible. This step is key to achieving a moist and tender crumb in your bars.

canola oil, eggs, and vanilla extract added to the bowl of wet ingredients

STEP FIVE: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to avoid activating too much gluten, which can make the bars tough. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to make sure everything is evenly mixed.

PRO TIP: If you see any lumps of flour or spice, gently whisk until they disappear. Overmixing can cause the bars to be dense, so it’s better to use a whisk rather than an electric mixer, and be sure to stop as soon as the ingredients are combined

dry and wet ingredients combined in a bowl

STEP SIX: Spread the pumpkin batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use an offset spatula to smooth the batter to an even thickness. 

PRO TIP: Taking your time to spread the batter into an even layer, right to the edges, helps the bars bake uniformly, so every piece is just as delicious as the next.

pumpkin batter added to a baking dish

STEP SEVEN: Bake the pumpkin bars for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a couple of moist crumbs. Avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can cause the bars to cook unevenly.

PRO TIP: If you notice the edges browning faster than the center, lightly cover the pan with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. This will help prevent over-browning while allowing the center to finish cooking.

pumpkin bars baked in a baking dish

STEP EIGHT: Allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely to room temperature before adding the cream cheese frosting. This cooling time is necessary to prevent the frosting from melting and becoming runny.

PRO TIP: If you’re in a hurry, you can place the bars in the refrigerator for a quick cool-down. Just make sure to let the cake cool completely before frosting.

STEP NINE: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium speed using an electric hand mixer for about 1 minute, or until smooth and creamy.

cream cheese and butter combined in a bowl

Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then mix for another 1-2 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.

powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla combined into the ingredients in the bowl

STEP TEN: Using an offset spatula, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. Cut into squares and serve. You can refrigerate the bars for 30 minutes to firm up the frosting slightly, making them easier to cut into clean slices.

cream cheese frosting spread over the pumpkin bars

Pumpkin Spice Bars – Troubleshooting Tips

Here are a few additional Pro Tips that will be helpful when making your pumpkin bars:

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature before starting. This helps them incorporate more easily into the batter and frosting, leading to a smoother texture. Otherwise, your mixture tends to be thick, dense, and even lumpy.
  • Measure Flour Correctly: When measuring flour, instead of using a spoon to scoop flour from a bag or container (which can compact the flour too much), use a spoon to scoop the flour into a measuring cup, then use a knife to level it off. 
  • Check Your Oven Temperature: If you often find your baked goods aren’t cooking as expected, use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is at the correct temperature. This ensures consistent results.
  • Mix the Frosting on Low: When adding the powdered sugar to the frosting, mix on a low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, increase the speed to make the frosting light and fluffy.

How to Serve

Whether you’re planning to showcase your pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting at a family gathering, enjoy them as a simple treat at home, or even incorporate them into a creative dessert spread, these serving ideas will help you make the most of this delicious dessert.

Casual Presentation: Serve your pumpkin bars on a simple platter with a sprinkle of cinnamon over the frosting for a warm, inviting look. This straightforward approach is perfect for everyday snacking or casual get-togethers.

Dress It Up: For a more festive presentation, add a dusting of powdered sugar on top of the frosting, and arrange the bars on a tiered cake stand. This creates an elegant display that’s perfect for holiday parties or special occasions.

Pair with Ice Cream: Serve the pumpkin bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream complements the spiced pumpkin and tangy cream cheese frosting beautifully.

Afternoon Tea: Cut the pumpkin bars into smaller, bite-sized pieces and serve them as part of an afternoon tea spread. Pair them with a selection of teas like chai or spiced black tea to enhance the warm flavors of the pumpkin and spices.

Brunch Addition: Incorporate the pumpkin bars into a brunch or breakfast menu by serving them alongside other fall favorites like cinnamon rolls or apple handpies. The sweet and spicy notes of the bars will fit right in with these breakfast treats.

Potluck Favorite: Bring these pumpkin bars to your next potluck or family gathering. They’re easy to transport and are sure to be a hit. Serve them alongside other desserts like apple crisp or pecan pie for a dessert table that celebrates the flavors of fall.

Pair with Beverages: For a more grown-up pairing, serve the bars with a cup of spiked apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte. Kids will enjoy this pumpkin bar cake with homemade cider or hot chocolate

Holiday Dessert Table: Include these pumpkin bars on your holiday dessert table along with other pumpkin-flavored desserts like pumpkin pie, pumpkin roll cookies, and pumpkin spice muffins

How to Store Pumpkin Bars

Storing your pumpkin bars properly will keep them fresh and delicious, whether you’re making them ahead for a special occasion or saving leftovers for later. Here’s how you can store and reheat these bars to enjoy them at their best.

MAKE AHEAD: You can easily make these pumpkin bars a day or two in advance. Prepare the bars as directed, but wait to frost them until just before serving. Store the unfrosted bars tightly covered at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, add the frosting and slice them into squares.

IN THE FRIDGE: To store in the fridge, cover the frosted pumpkin bars tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Be sure to store them in a single layer to avoid the frosting sticking to the cover or other bars.

IN THE FREEZER: Pumpkin bars can be frozen for up to two months. It’s best to freeze them unfrosted. Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To serve, thaw the bars in the fridge overnight, frost, and cut into squares.

Why This Pumpkin Bars Recipe Is The Best

Pumpkin bars have become a fall favorite recipe with our development team. It’s not just their rich, spiced flavor that makes them special; it’s the ease, versatility, and crowd-pleasing nature of this recipe that keeps us coming back. 

Here’s why this perfect pumpkin bar recipe is a must-bake:

Easy to Make: Straightforward steps that even beginners can handle with confidence.

Perfect for Fall: Packed with warm spices that capture the essence of the season.

Versatile Dessert: Ideal for casual snacking, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a go-to for family events.

Pumpkin Bars Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree to make this easy pumpkin bars recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure it’s cooked and pureed until smooth. Fresh pumpkin may have a different moisture content, so you may need to adjust the amount slightly.

What size should I cut the pumpkin bars into?

You can cut them into 12 larger squares or 24 smaller ones, depending on your preference and the occasion.

How can I tell when the pumpkin bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! You can fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking for extra texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to frost the bars evenly?

Use an offset spatula to spread the frosting smoothly and evenly over the cooled bars.

Can I make the cream cheese frosting in advance?

Yes, you can make the frosting up to 24 hours ahead. Store it in the fridge, then let it soften at room temperature before spreading.

Should I refrigerate the pumpkin bars before cutting them?

Yes, refrigerating the bars for about 30 minutes can make slicing cleaner and easier.

Can I use a glass baking dish instead of a metal one?

Yes, but note that glass dishes may require a longer baking time, so keep an eye on the bars as they bake.

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?

Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid added sugars and spices that can alter the recipe.

These delicious pumpkin bars are the perfect blend of warm spices and creamy frosting, making them a go-to treat for any fall occasion. With their easy preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, you’ll want to make them again and again!

a slice of pumpkin bar sprinkled with cinnamon on a plate

More Delicious Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Love

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Pumpkin Bars

5 from 2 votes
Pumpkin bars combine warm fall spices with a rich cream cheese frosting, making them an easy and delicious treat for any occasion. Ready in just 40 minutes, they’re perfect for everything from family gatherings to holiday potlucks.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Cake

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¾ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 15 ounces 100% pure pumpkin puree, Libby’s brand
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup canola oil
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Make the Pumpkin Bars

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 inch straight-sided metal baking pan with non-stick baker’s spray and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk the pure pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until completely combined.
  • Add the canola oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl of wet ingredients. Whisk until smooth, and the eggs are fully incorporated.
  • Add the dry ingredients to the bowl of wet ingredients. Whisk just until combined and no lumps or dry streaks of flour remain. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure the pumpkin cake batter is evenly mixed.
  • Spread the pumpkin bar batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use an offset spatula to smooth the batter to an even thickness. This will help ensure the bars bake up to a uniform thickness.
  • Bake the pumpkin bars for 25-30 minutes, or a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a couple of moist crumbs.
  • Allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely (to room temperature) before adding the cream cheese frosting.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Add the cream cheese and unsalted butter to a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed, using a handheld mixer, for 1 minute or until smooth and creamy.
  • Slowly add the powdered sugar and mix well between each addition until fully incorporated. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix for 1-2 minutes or until the frosting is smooth, light, and fluffy.
  • Using an offset spatula, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature before starting. This helps them incorporate more easily into the batter and frosting, leading to a smoother texture. Otherwise, your mixtures tend to be thick, dense, and even lumpy.
  • Measure Flour Correctly: When measuring flour, instead of using a spoon to scoop flour from a bag or container (which can compact the flour too much), use a spoon to scoop the flour into a measuring cup, then use a knife to level it off. 
  • Check Your Oven Temperature: If you often find your baked goods aren’t cooking as expected, use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is at the correct temperature. This ensures consistent results.
  • Mix the Frosting on Low: When adding the powdered sugar to the frosting, mix on a low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, increase the speed to make the frosting light and fluffy.

Nutrition

Calories: 474kcal | Carbohydrates: 64g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 243mg | Potassium: 148mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 47g | Vitamin A: 6008IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 2mg
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This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

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