Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Pumpkin season is my favorite time of year, and nothing quite captures the essence of fall like a thick, soft pumpkin bar slathered with luscious cream cheese frosting. The warm spices, the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, and that silky topping come together to create the ultimate cozy dessert. These bars are the kind of treat I look forward to making when the leaves start to turn and the weather calls for oversized sweaters and hot drinks.

I love how easy and fuss-free this recipe is — it’s one bowl for the batter, and no fancy equipment is required. Plus, the result is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m baking a batch for a casual get-together or just to have something sweet on hand at home, these pumpkin bars never last long. The moist crumb and tangy-sweet frosting are just irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

They’re the perfect balance of texture and flavor — incredibly moist with just the right amount of spice, topped with a rich and creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. These bars are easy to slice, easy to serve, and even easier to devour. Plus, they’re great for potlucks, holidays, or as a make-ahead dessert.

What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

Canned pumpkin purée is the way to go for this recipe — not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugar and spices. Look for 100% pure pumpkin. It provides moisture, structure, and that classic autumn flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients. If you want to make your own purée from fresh pumpkin, be sure to strain out excess moisture.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t have every ingredient on hand? No problem. You can swap the vegetable oil for melted coconut oil or even unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. Gluten-free flour blends work well in place of all-purpose flour. If you’re dairy-free, a vegan cream cheese alternative works beautifully in the frosting. You can also add chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips to the batter for an extra twist.

---

Ingredients for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure and base for the bars, holding all the ingredients together.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the soft texture.
• Brown Sugar – Brings a deeper, molasses-like flavor that complements the pumpkin.
• Pumpkin Purée – The star ingredient, giving the bars their moist texture and signature taste.
• Vegetable Oil – Helps keep the bars tender and moist.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and give the bars their lift and light texture.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that help the bars rise.
• Salt – Enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger & Cloves – A warm spice blend that defines the classic pumpkin spice flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and sweetness to both the batter and the frosting.
• Cream Cheese – The base of the frosting; tangy and rich.
• Unsalted Butter – Gives the frosting a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

---

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your pumpkin bars bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. This step ensures that the sugar dissolves and the eggs are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This evenly distributes the spices and leavening agents so the bars rise uniformly and taste consistent throughout.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined — don’t overmix, or the bars could become dense. The batter should be thick and fragrant with pumpkin spice.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. Bake for 28–33 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Let the bars cool in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before frosting. If the bars are still warm, the frosting will melt and lose its shape.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

Step 8: Frost the Bars

Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For a festive touch, you can add candy pumpkins or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Cut into squares or rectangles depending on your preference. These bars are rich and satisfying, so smaller pieces go a long way.

---

How Long to Prepare Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Prep Time: The prep for these bars is quick and easy. In about 15–20 minutes, you can mix the batter and have it ready to go into the oven. Most of the time is spent measuring, mixing, and prepping the frosting while the bars bake or cool.

Bake & Cooling Time: Baking takes around 30 minutes. Cooling is essential before frosting — allow at least 45 minutes to an hour for the bars to come to room temperature. Altogether, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, with most of it being hands-off.

---

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Use room temperature ingredients, especially for the eggs and cream cheese, for smoother mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour to avoid dense bars.
• Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the frosting to prevent lumps.
• Line your pan with parchment paper for easy lifting and cleaner slicing.
• Chill the frosted bars slightly before serving for cleaner cuts and firmer texture.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using pumpkin pie filling instead of purée — pie filling has added sugar and spices that can throw off the balance.
• Not letting the bars cool completely before frosting, which will cause the frosting to melt and slide.
• Overbaking the bars — they should be moist and tender, not dry.
• Skipping the spice blend — don’t underestimate how much flavor cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring.
• Adding too much flour — spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense results.

---

What to Serve With Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

1. Hot Apple Cider

The warm spice and apple flavors make a cozy pairing with pumpkin.

2. Chai Tea Latte

Its bold spices enhance the autumn vibe of these bars.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve a scoop alongside for a warm-cold dessert experience.

4. Spiced Nuts

A crunchy contrast to the soft, sweet bars.

5. Fresh Berries

Bright, slightly tart berries balance the richness of the frosting.

---

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a day, the bars can sit at room temp covered tightly. But because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is safer.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The frosting firms up nicely, and the bars stay moist.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Add fresh frosting after thawing.

---

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 20 bars)

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 190mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 28g
• Protein: 3g

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center — if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they’re great for making a day in advance. Just refrigerate them after frosting.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely — double the ingredients and bake in a larger sheet pan. Watch the bake time, as it may need a few extra minutes.

Can I use fresh pumpkin?

Yes, but make sure it’s well-drained and mashed smoothly. Too much moisture can make the bars soggy.

Is it okay to skip the frosting?

You can, but the cream cheese frosting adds a rich contrast that truly completes the bars. You could also dust with powdered sugar instead.

---

Conclusion

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are one of those cozy, crowd-pleasing desserts that feel like a hug in every bite. They’re moist, warmly spiced, and topped with creamy goodness — everything you want in a fall treat. Whether you’re sharing them at a potluck, baking them for your family, or enjoying them with a warm drink on a chilly day, these bars are guaranteed to bring a little joy. Simple to make, beautiful to serve, and irresistible to eat — this is a recipe you’ll come back to every autumn and beyond.

---

Print