Description
Irresistibly moist, warmly spiced Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate easy dessert for fall gatherings or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing treat! This simple, one-pan recipe combines real pumpkin and cozy spices, then tops it off with a creamy, tangy frosting. Whether you’re searching for quick breakfast ideas, an easy dinner dessert, or a healthy snack for kids, these bars will become your new favorite food idea. Perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, and seasonal celebrations!
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 cup vegetable oil
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow bars to cool completely in the pan.
7. Meanwhile, make the frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until light and fluffy.
8. Once the bars are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
9. Slice into squares, decorate if desired, and serve. Enjoy!
Notes
For the best texture, don’t overmix the batter—just stir until combined.
Make sure the bars are completely cool before frosting, or the frosting may melt.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze unfrosted bars for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 33mg
Keywords: Pumpkin bars, easy dessert, cream cheese frosting, fall recipe, quick breakfast, healthy snack, food ideas, easy recipe, dessert bars, pumpkin recipes