why make this recipe
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that brings the warmth of fall into your kitchen. They perfectly balance the sweetness of the pumpkin with the creamy richness of the frosting.
These bars are not just delicious; they are also easy to make, making them perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they can be enjoyed year-round for anyone who loves the comforting taste of pumpkin.
equipment needed for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To make these pumpkin bars successfully, gather the following equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheet (13 by 18 inches)
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cooling rack
What You Need to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To create these delicious pumpkin bars, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 eggs
- 2/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup neutral vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
How to Cook Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 13 by 18-inch rimmed half sheet pan to ensure the bars don’t stick. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This mix forms the dry ingredients that will give your bars structure.
In a separate large bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is the wet mixture and gives the bars their moist texture.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until all is combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to remain light and airy.
Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 to 23 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bars; it should come out clean when they are ready.
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is essential for the frosting not to melt when you spread it.
Now, let’s make the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until they are smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting reaches a thick but spreadable consistency.
Once the pumpkin bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Chill the bars before slicing them into squares—this helps the frosting set and makes for neater slices.
how to make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, start with the essential ingredients listed above. Ensure you measure everything carefully for the best results.
Prepare your baking pan and preheat your oven beforehand to streamline the process. Following each step methodically—mixing your dry ingredients, blending in the wet ingredients, and baking—will lead to delightful bars.
When making the frosting, keep your butter and cream cheese at room temperature, which helps them whip together more smoothly. Finally, allowing the bars to cool completely will enable you to frost them without the frosting melting away.
how to serve Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
These delicious pumpkin bars pair well with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal afternoon snack. Serve them at parties, bake sales, or during holiday gatherings.
When serving, consider cutting them into small squares or rectangles for easy handling. A dusting of additional powdered sugar on top can add a lovely finishing touch and compliments their festive flavor perfectly.
For special occasions, you can even add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on the frosting for added texture and taste.
what to serve with Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
When enjoying Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, you might want to serve them with a few tasty accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream can complement the creaminess of the frosting.
Also, consider serving a side of spiced whipped cream or crème fraîche for a slightly tangy balance. You could also pair these bars with some fresh fruit like apple slices or berries for a refreshing contrast.
For a cozy touch, pair with spiced tea or hot apple cider, enhancing the fall flavor experience.
how to store Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your pumpkin bars. Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within a week.
Before storing, you can place parchment paper between layers of bars to prevent sticking. If you plan to make them ahead of time, freezing the bars without frosting is an excellent option.
To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can store frozen for up to three months, and when you’re ready, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
tips to make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your Pumpkin Bars turn out perfectly, measure all ingredients accurately. Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to keep your bars light. When frosting, consider letting your cream cheese and butter soften at room temperature, making for a creamier frost.
If you prefer a sweeter frosting, begin with less powdered sugar and gradually add more to reach your desired sweetness. Finally, be patient with cooling—this is crucial for a perfect frosting spread.
variation
There are several ways to personalize your Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. For a twist, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for additional texture.
You might also experiment with a spice profile by adding more cinnamon or nutmeg. If you want to make them even healthier, consider replacing some of the sugar with maple syrup or honey.
For those looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and the butter with vegan butter.
best time to make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
While these Pumpkin Bars are great any time of year, they shine in the fall. The earthy flavors of pumpkin and spice make them perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or general autumn celebrations.
They can also be a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings or seasonal potlucks. Friends and family will appreciate the homemade touch and flavor.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is using canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree. Make sure to use pure pumpkin for the best flavor and consistency.
Next, avoid overmixing your batter, as this can lead to dense bars. Remember to grease your pan well or use parchment paper, as sticking is a frequent issue.
Lastly, don’t skip the cooling step! Frosting warm bars can lead to a melted and messy frosting situation.
nutritional notes
These bars provide a delightful combination of flavors and textures. They are rich in flavor, thanks to the pumpkin and spices, and the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy richness.
However, remember to enjoy these treats in moderation, as they do contain sugar and fat, particularly from the frosting. They make a lovely occasional treat that can be enjoyed at any festive gathering.
FAQs
1. Can I add nuts to the pumpkin bars?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch and flavor.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
3. How long do these bars last?
When stored properly in the fridge, they can last up to a week. If frozen, they can be good for up to three months.
conclusion
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that captures the essence of fall. They make for a perfect dessert to share with loved ones or enjoy on your own.
With their soft, moist texture and rich frosting, these bars are sure to please anyone who tries them. With the tips and variations provided, you’ll have everything needed to make your pumpkin bars a unique treat every time. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring these delightful bars!
