When the autumn season rolls around, there’s no shortage of delightful treats that capture the essence of fall. One of the most beloved desserts during this time is undoubtedly pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting. These bars are soft, moist, and infused with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices. Topped with a rich and creamy frosting, they are irresistible and perfect for any gathering or simply as a comforting dessert at home.
Why We Love This Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with pumpkin bars topped with cream cheese frosting. For starters, they are incredibly simple to make. With a straightforward list of ingredients and an easy method, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home.
The balance of flavors is another reason these bars shine. The pumpkin brings a natural sweetness and moisture, while the spices imbue warmth and depth. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy finish that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin bars. The fun part? You can customize the frosting to your liking, maybe even adding a hint of maple for a unique twist.
These pumpkin bars are also versatile. You can enjoy them equally for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack. Serve them warm or cold; they are delicious either way. They are sure to impress your friends and family, earning you rave reviews every time you bake them.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To create the perfect pumpkin bars topped with cream cheese frosting, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 (8-ounce) package low-fat cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 cups sifted powdered sugar
How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Directions
Creating these delightful pumpkin bars is a straightforward process that you can master with just a little guidance. Here’s how you do it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and mist a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, begin by whisking together the four eggs along with the granulated sugar. Add the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture and whisk until it’s well combined. This will form your wet mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine two cups of all-purpose flour, two teaspoons of baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, fine sea salt, and baking soda. Mixing these well ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is fully combined, but be cautious not to over-mix, as this can lead to denser bars. You want a smooth batter with no lumps.
- Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan. This helps ensure that the bars bake uniformly.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the bars are perfectly baked.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature. This step is crucial as frosting warm bars can lead to a melted mess.
- While the bars cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened low-fat cream cheese, softened butter, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, starting with two cups, until your frosting reaches the desired sweetness and consistency. It should be thick yet spreadable.
- Once the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top with a spatula, creating a beautiful, creamy layer.
- Slice into squares, serve them up, and enjoy each delicious bite of your homemade pumpkin bars!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting can be both fun and creative. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Plate them beautifully: Arrange the sliced bars on a serving platter with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an aesthetic touch. This simple addition can make your bars look extra appealing.
- Add garnishes: Consider topping each bar with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve with a side: Offer a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each bar. The creaminess of ice cream complements the spiced pumpkin beautifully.
- Pair with beverages: These bars are just perfect with a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or a spiced chai latte. The warmth of the drinks pairs well with the flavors of the bars.
- Create a dessert buffet: If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving the pumpkin bars alongside other autumn-inspired desserts for a delightful spread.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
For the ultimate pumpkin bar experience, here are some expert tips you should keep in mind:
- Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works wonderfully, using fresh pumpkin puree can add an incredible depth of flavor. If you choose fresh, roast and puree your pumpkin for the best results.
- Don’t over-mix the batter: Stir the dry and wet ingredients until just combined to achieve fluffy bars. Over-mixing can lead to a denser texture, which you want to avoid.
- Check for doneness accurately: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bars during baking. Start checking for doneness at the 30-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
- Adjust sweetness: Everyone’s taste buds are different. Feel free to start with two cups of powdered sugar in the frosting and add more to suit your preference.
- Experiment with spices: While cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice are traditional, you can combine other spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor complexity.
How to Store Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Proper storage ensures your pumpkin bars remain fresh and delicious. Here’s how to do it:
- Room temperature storage: If you plan to consume the bars within a day, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure they are completely cooled before covering.
- Refrigeration: If you need to store them for longer, place the pumpkin bars in the fridge. The cream cheese frosting will keep well in a cool environment. Use a container with a lid to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze these bars. Cut them into slices and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Variations of Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
While the classic recipe is a favorite, it’s fun to switch it up occasionally. Here are some variations to consider:
- Nutty pumpkin bars: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for additional texture and flavor. Simply fold in about a cup of chopped nuts before pouring the batter into the baking dish.
- Chocolate chip pumpkin bars: Add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise in each bite. Chocolate and pumpkin are a match made in dessert heaven!
- Maple frosting: Substitute half of the powdered sugar in the frosting with pure maple syrup. This gives your pumpkin bars a lovely maple flavor that’s perfect for fall.
- Spiced variations: Play around with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or clove for unique flavor profiles that complement the pumpkin.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you check for the best mix to support the texture.
FAQ: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
What makes these pumpkin bars different from regular pumpkin cake?
Pumpkin bars are typically more dense and have a moist texture compared to lighter, fluffier pumpkin cakes. They are also more portable and easier to cut into bars for serving.
How long can I keep pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting?
When stored properly, these bars can last for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator. If frozen, they can last for several months.
Can I make pumpkin bars without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce to make them egg-free. For each egg, mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and let it sit until it becomes gelatinous. Alternatively, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce in place of each egg.
Is there a way to reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can cut back on the sugar used in the recipe or replace it with natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, though this may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Certainly! Fresh pumpkin adds a lovely depth of flavor. Just remember to roast it and puree it before using it in this recipe.
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- 9 x 13-inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowls:
- Whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 8-ounce package low-fat cream cheese softened
- 2 Tbsp butter softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract for frosting
- 2 to 3 cups sifted powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and mist a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar. Add vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack until room temperature.
- While the bars cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by mixing cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add sifted powdered sugar until reaching desired sweetness and consistency.
- Once the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top.
- Slice into squares and serve.
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