If you’re looking for a deliciously moist and warmly spiced treat that’s perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings, I cannot recommend enough trying Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This dish combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with a luxuriously creamy frosting that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re a longtime fan of pumpkin desserts or just venturing into their wonderful world, these bars are guaranteed to become a new favorite, boasting just the right texture, spice, and sweetness to satisfy your fall cravings or brighten up any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, the ingredients are delightfully straightforward but absolutely crucial to get that perfect tender crumb and creamy topping. Each component plays a unique role, from the rich oils to the warming spices, making these pumpkin bars truly unforgettable.
- 4 large eggs: These bind everything together and add a lovely lift to the batter.
- 1 & 2/3 cup white sugar: The right amount of sweetness to balance the pumpkin earthiness.
- 1/2 cup oil (light olive oil suggested): Keeps the bars moist and tender without weighing them down.
- 1/2 cup salted butter (melted): Adds richness and depth of flavor, plus a little salt to enhance the other ingredients.
- 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling): The star ingredient provides moisture, color, and that distinct pumpkin flavor.
- 2 cups flour (spooned and leveled): For just the right structure and softness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise and ensures a nice, light texture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Works alongside the baking soda for an even rise and fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and heightens the overall flavor.
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A signature warm spice blend that gives the bars their seasonal charm.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A gentle boost of spice for extra warmth and fragrance.
- 1 batch cream cheese frosting: Rich, tangy, and creamy—the perfect topping that elevates the pumpkin bars to pure indulgence.
How to Make Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Grab an 11×17 inch pan, generously spray it with nonstick spray, then sprinkle a couple teaspoons of flour around. Shake it to coat the edges evenly and tap out the excess. This simple trick is key to preventing your bars from sticking, so your final product slides right out with ease!
Step 2: Beat the Eggs
In a large bowl or your stand mixer, beat the eggs until combined and slightly frothy. This step is essential for incorporating air that will give the bars a wonderful lightness.
Step 3: Mix in Sugar, Oil, Butter, and Pumpkin
Add in the sugar, oil, melted butter, and pumpkin. Beat everything together for about two minutes until the mixture is fluffy. Remember to scrape down the sides and bottom of your bowl to get an even consistency. This blend of fats and moisture sets the stage for that perfect texture we love in Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
Step 4: Add the Flour
Once your wet mixture is fluffy, add the flour but don’t stir it in just yet. This step prepares us for the next, where we gently mix in our spices and leavening agents for an even flavor distribution.
Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Spices and Leaveners
Create a small well in the flour and add baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon right into it. Use a small spoon to gently mix these dry ingredients together with the flour. This ensures the warm spices and rising agents are perfectly blended in before everything is combined.
Step 6: Mix Everything Together
Now, use your mixer to incorporate all that flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Beat well, and don’t forget to scrape down the sides and bottom to make sure everything is homogeneous—this step is incredibly important for the perfect crumb in Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
Step 7: Bake Your Bars
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures your bars are baked through without any soggy spots.
Step 8: Cool Completely Before Frosting
Let the bars cool completely in the pan. This part requires patience, but it’s essential. Topping warm bars with cream cheese frosting can cause it to melt and slide off, which we definitely want to avoid.
Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While your bars are cooling, whip up your cream cheese frosting. This recipe calls for 4 cups of powdered sugar for a sweet finish, but feel free to use less if you prefer a tangier frosting. The frosting is rich, velvety, and the perfect contrast to our spiced pumpkin bars.
Step 10: Frost and Finish
Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top, smoothing it out to the edges. For a fun and festive finish, sprinkle some Red Hots candies on top. They add a surprising pop of color and a mild spicy kick that complements the cream cheese beautifully. Now, you have the perfect slice of autumn happiness from Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
How to Serve Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic Red Hots, you can elevate these pumpkin bars with a dusting of finely chopped toasted pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Freshly grated nutmeg or a few chocolate shavings also look and taste exquisite on top, adding layers of texture and aroma that make each bite feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Serve these pumpkin bars alongside a steaming cup of chai tea or spiced coffee to complement their warm flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also pairs wonderfully for dessert, turning every mouthful into a cozy celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For a delightful twist, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and serve on a rustic wooden platter with small dessert forks, perfect for parties or potlucks. You can also layer the bars with extra frosting between slices to create mini pumpkin bar sandwiches. Wrapping individual squares in parchment paper tied with twine makes a lovely gift or festive treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover pumpkin bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting stays perfectly creamy, and the bars hold onto their moist texture for up to five days. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe another day without rushing to eat them all, freeze the unfrosted bars tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. When ready, thaw completely, then frost and garnish just before serving to maintain freshness and frosting texture.
Reheating
Though these bars are delightful chilled, if you prefer a warm treat, gently warm unfrosted bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid heating once frosted, as the frosting can melt away. For a cozy snack, warming pairs beautifully with a cold dollop of cream cheese frosting or a scoop of ice cream.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s fully cooked and pureed smoothly before measuring. The texture and moisture level may vary slightly, so adjust flour or pumpkin amount as needed to keep the batter consistency just right.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture might be a touch different but still delicious and perfect for those avoiding gluten.
How long does it take to make Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?
From start to finish, including prep, baking, cooling, and frosting, plan on about one hour. The active prep time is around 10 minutes, with 20 minutes of baking and additional cooling time before frosting.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, cream cheese frosting can be made a day ahead and stored tightly covered in the refrigerator. Before spreading, bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir to restore the creamy, spreadable texture.
What is the secret to keeping the bars moist?
The combination of oil and melted butter in the batter keeps the bars incredibly moist and tender. Also, be careful not to overbake. Pull them out as soon as a toothpick comes out clean to prevent dryness.
Final Thoughts
Sharing Paul’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe feels like passing along a cherished family secret that warms every heart and palate. This recipe is a brilliant blend of cozy fall flavors, simple ingredients, and that dreamy frosting everyone craves. I genuinely hope you give it a try and make it your own, delighting friends and family with every bite. Trust me, these bars will have you coming back for seconds and sharing the love all season long.
