Go Back

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Deliciously soft pumpkin bars topped with creamy and decadent frosting, perfect for fall gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Sifted for better texture
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth and flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Can be adjusted to taste
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed Adds moisture and flavor
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree Ensure it's pure pumpkin, not pie filling
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs Room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Ensure it's at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Room temperature for easy mixing
  • 3 cups powdered sugar Sifted to avoid lumps
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Frosting
  1. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by beating softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled pumpkin bars.
Serving
  1. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.