Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar

Published: November 3, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

This incredible Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:

Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to choose pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for that rich flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works great here; just make sure it’s fresh for the best texture.
Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar adds depth and moisture to the bars.
Eggs: Use large eggs to provide structure and richness in your batter.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and enhances that classic pumpkin flavor.
Nuts (optional): Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch if you’re feeling adventurous.

For the Frosting:

Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened for easy blending into that luscious frosting.
Butter: Unsalted butter complements the cream cheese perfectly without adding extra saltiness.
Powdered Sugar: This is what gives your frosting that sweet topping you can’t resist!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish—about 9×13 inches works perfectly—for those marvelous bars.

Step 2: Prepare Your Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together canned pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. The mixture should feel as velvety as it looks!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—stir it up like you’re creating some top-secret potion.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to your pumpkin mixture. Fold gently until just combined; overmixing will lead to tough bars!

Step 5: Bake Away

Pour your batter into the greased dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean—this is where patience really pays off.

Step 6: Frosting Time!

While those bars cool down (if you can resist), whip up your cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until it reaches that dreamy consistency.

Once cooled completely (or slightly if you’re impatient), spread that luscious frosting over your pumpkin bars. Slice them into squares or rectangles—whatever floats your boat—and watch them disappear faster than you can say “Pumpkin Spice Latte!”

Serve them at parties or cozy family gatherings where smiles are guaranteed as everyone takes their first bite. And don’t forget to save some for yourself; trust me, you’ll want seconds!

You Must Know About Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

This showstopping Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven and greasing your pan. Mix the dry ingredients first, then incorporate the wet ones. Pour the batter into the pan while your cream cheese frosting chills in the fridge, ensuring everything is ready for a delicious finish.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap pumpkin puree for butternut squash if you’re feeling adventurous. Add chocolate chips for extra sweetness or sprinkle in walnuts for a delightful crunch. Experiment with spices like nutmeg and ginger to create your unique twist on these pumpkin bars.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When reheating, simply pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge—no judgment here!

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

This professional-quality Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

My best friend once told me she thought she could eat these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting every day! That’s when I realized I had created something special that brought people together over laughter and deliciousness.

FAQs

What is Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are delightful treats that combine the rich flavors of pumpkin with a creamy, tangy frosting. These bars are soft and moist, making them a perfect dessert for fall gatherings or any occasion. The pumpkin provides a natural sweetness and a hint of spice, while the cream cheese frosting adds a smooth texture and balance to the flavors. They are simple to make and can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making them a versatile dessert choice.

How do I store Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

To properly store Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, allow them to cool completely before slicing. Place the bars in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for up to one week. If you plan to enjoy them later, consider freezing the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They will remain fresh for up to three months in the freezer.

Can I use canned pumpkin for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes, using canned pumpkin puree is an excellent option for making Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Canned pumpkin is convenient and saves time compared to preparing fresh pumpkin. It also has a consistent flavor and texture, ensuring your bars turn out delicious every time. Just be sure to select pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that may alter your recipe.

Are Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends on the market work well in baking without compromising taste or texture. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free if you’re preparing these bars for someone with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. By making these small adjustments, you can enjoy this delicious dessert worry-free.

Conclusion

In summary, Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are an irresistible dessert featuring a moist pumpkin base topped with creamy frosting. Perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, these bars are easy to store and can be made using canned pumpkin for convenience. Whether you’re enjoying them warm or chilled, they’re sure to please any crowd. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s a delightful way to celebrate fall flavors!

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