Save Moist, warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting—an irresistibly cozy fall treat perfect for any gathering.
This recipe has become a favorite in my family during the fall season because it brings both comfort and a festive touch to our gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Pumpkin Bars: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- For the Brown Sugar Frosting: 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened, 4 ounces cream cheese, softened, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2–4 tablespoons milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Add pumpkin:
- Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- Combine:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Add nuts:
- Fold in walnuts or pecans, if using.
- Prepare pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Make frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add sugars:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Flavor:
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Adjust consistency:
- Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost bars:
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Save My family loves gathering around to enjoy these bars during holidays, making every moment sweeter and cozier.
Notes
For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle additional chopped nuts on top of the frosted bars. For a lighter version, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
Required Tools
9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer or hand mixer, spatula, wire cooling rack, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter, cream cheese), tree nuts (if using walnuts or pecans). Always verify ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Save These pumpkin bars combine cozy spices with a creamy frosting to create a perfect fall treat you can enjoy all season long.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute nuts in the bars?
Yes, walnuts or pecans can be used or omitted entirely based on preference or allergies.
- → How do I prevent the frosting from melting?
Allow the bars to cool completely before spreading the frosting to maintain its texture and prevent melting.
- → What spices are included in the spiced bars?
The bars include cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to create a warm, cozy flavor profile.
- → Can I make a lighter version of the bars?
Yes, substitute half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter texture.
- → How should I store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to keep them fresh.
- → What pan size is recommended for baking?
A 9×13-inch baking pan provides the ideal thickness and bake time for these bars.