Save It Moist warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting—an irresistibly cozy fall treat perfect for any gathering.
I have always enjoyed making these pumpkin bars during the fall season as they never fail to impress guests with their rich flavor and perfect balance of spices.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl whisk together the flour baking soda cinnamon nutmeg cloves and salt
- Step 3:
- In another large bowl whisk together the granulated sugar vegetable oil and eggs until smooth
- Step 4:
- Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated
- Step 5:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients mixing just until combined
- Step 6:
- Fold in walnuts or pecans if using
- Step 7:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly
- Step 8:
- Bake for 3035 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
- Step 9:
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting
- Step 10:
- For the frosting In a large bowl beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy
- Step 11:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and brown sugar mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy
- Step 12:
- Mix in the vanilla extract
- Step 13:
- Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting is smooth and spreadable
- Step 14:
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars Cut into squares and serve
Save It My family loves gathering around these pumpkin bars especially during chilly fall evenings they always bring warmth and smiles
Notes
For extra crunch and flavor sprinkle additional chopped nuts on top of the frosted bars
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 It This recipe is sure to become a fall favorite bringing comfort and sweetness to any occasion
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use a different type of nuts?
Yes, walnuts and pecans both work well, but you can substitute with other tree nuts or omit them entirely for a nut-free option.
- → How do I prevent the frosting from melting?
Make sure the bars are completely cooled before spreading the frosting to avoid melting or sliding.
- → Can the bars be stored after assembling?
Store the frosted bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.
- → Is there a way to lighten the bars?
Replace half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat while keeping moisture.
- → What spices create the warm flavor profile?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves combine to give the bars their signature warm and cozy spiced taste.
- → What size pan is recommended?
A 9×13-inch baking pan is ideal for even baking and proper thickness of the bars.