Irresistible Pumpkin Bars with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

The aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Bars with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting fills the air, instantly whisking you away to cozy autumn afternoons. Picture this: a warm, spiced square that melts in your mouth, with a luscious cream cheese frosting on top that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. apple cranberry stuffing recipe delicious cranberry orange cinnamon rolls.

These delightful bars are more than just dessert; they’re a hug in food form. I remember the first time I tried a pumpkin bar at a friend’s Thanksgiving gathering. It was love at first bite! As I dove into that soft, spiced goodness topped with creamy frosting, I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come. gingerbread cheesecake cookies.

I once brought these pumpkin bars to a potluck, and let’s just say they disappeared faster than you could say “pumpkin spice latte.” People were raving about them!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Canned Pumpkin Puree: Choose 100% pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture—avoid pie filling!

• All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works best; it gives the bars structure without being too dense.

• Granulated Sugar: You’ll need sugar for both the bars and the frosting; it sweetens beautifully!

• Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and depth to the flavor profile—don’t skip it!

• Baking Powder: Essential for fluffiness; make sure it’s fresh for effective rising.

• Baking Soda: A little bit helps balance the acidity of the pumpkin.

• Cinnamon: This spice is the heart of our recipe; it infuses warmth and coziness into every bite. cinnamon sugar cruffins.

• Nuts (optional): Chopped walnuts or pecans can add delightful crunch if you like some texture.

• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich, smooth frosting that spreads easily.

• Butter: Don’t forget softened butter for both the batter and frosting—it adds richness.

• Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances all the flavors beautifully.

• Milk or Heavy Cream: Use milk in moderation for a creamy frosting that pipes well.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this stuffed mini pumpkins recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. The spices should create an inviting aroma already!

Create the Pumpkin Batter: In another bowl, beat together sugars and butter until fluffy. Add canned pumpkin and eggs one by one while mixing well after each addition.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually fold in dry ingredients into your pumpkin mixture until just combined. Be gentle here; we want fluffy bars, not bricks!

Bake Your Bars: Pour batter into your prepared pan evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean—your kitchen will smell heavenly.

Prepare the Frosting: While your bars cool down, whip up the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.

Now that you’ve made these glorious Pumpkin Bars with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s time to slice them up! Enjoy sharing them—or don’t; I won’t tell anyone if you keep them all to yourself! For more inspiration, check out this pumpkin cupcakes recipe recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you mix your ingredients. This ensures even baking and perfect texture for your pumpkin bars.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional spices with pumpkin pie spice for a more dynamic flavor. You can also add chocolate chips for an extra sweetness that pairs beautifully with the frosting.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.

Baking these bars reminds me of my childhood when my grandma would let me steal bits of dough when she wasn’t looking. The joy on her face as I devoured those delicious creations was priceless!

FAQ

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a lighter option.

Can I make these pumpkin bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

How long do these bars last after baking?

They can stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days!