Pumpkin Bars

Table of Contents

1. Let’s Dish: About This Pumpkin Dessert
2. Pumpkin Bars Ingredients
3. Substitutions and Additions for Classic Pumpkin Bars
4. How to Make Pumpkin Bars
5. Pumpkin Spice Bars – Troubleshooting Tips
6. How to Serve
7. How to Store Pumpkin Bars
8. Why This Pumpkin Bars Recipe Is The Best
9. Pumpkin Bars Frequently Asked Questions
10. More Delicious Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Love
11. JUMP TO RECIPE

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. 

Let’s Dish: About This Pumpkin Dessert

Main Ingredients: Pumpkin puree, flour, cinnamon, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cream cheese frosting.
Quick Steps: Mix dry and wet ingredients, bake, cool, frost.
Total Time & Yield: 35 minutes, serves 12.

Why This Recipe

• While many recipes opt for standard pumpkin spice mixes, our recipe embraces the classic combination of real pumpkin puree and warm spices. This ensures that each bite is flavorful and rich.

• The cream cheese frosting adds a perfect tangy contrast to the sweetness, without being overly sugary.

• Compared to other recipes that can end up more cake-like or overly dense, this version achieves a moist, tender texture that hits the sweet spot between cake and bar. It’s the perfect fall treat for those who want to keep things easy yet impressive.

Pumpkin Bars Ingredients

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:

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:

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Our Promise To You

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.

More Delicious Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Love

• Baked Pumpkin Donuts
• Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bites
• Pumpkin Spice Latte Jello Shots
• Pumpkin Soup