If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly captures the cozy, comforting essence of fall, look no further than this Pumpkin Pie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These bars combine the warm spices and luscious texture of pumpkin pie with the ease and shareability of a bar dessert. The creamy frosting adds a dreamy touch that makes every bite feel like a celebration. With a tender, moist filling on a lightly cakey crust and a sweet, tangy cream cheese topping, these pumpkin pie bars are destined to become your go-to treat for holidays, bake sales, or any day that calls for a little extra sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together seamlessly in this recipe, each playing a key role in delivering that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. Nothing too fancy—just pantry staples that create magic when combined.
- 15 oz pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that brings vibrant color and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
- 2 eggs: Provide structure and help bind all ingredients together for a tender crumb.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the bars and balances the spices perfectly.
- 1/2 cup oil: Adds moisture and keeps the bars soft and luscious.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Introduces a subtle warmth that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Essential for that classic pumpkin spice vibe.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a hint of aromatic spice, making the bars extra special.
- 2 cups flour: The base for the cake-like structure of the bars.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the spices.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that ensures a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic pumpkin to help the bars rise properly.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): For that rich, tangy frosting that finishes the bars perfectly.
- 1/4 cup butter (softened, not melted): Adds creaminess and helps the frosting set just right.
- 1 Tablespoon heavy cream: Lightens the frosting, creating a smooth spreadable texture.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that silky consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Infuses the frosting with warm, inviting flavor.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by lining the bottom of a 9″x9″ baking dish with parchment paper. Give it a light spray of cooking spray to ensure the bars come out cleanly and keep the edges neat. Having a well-prepared pan sets the stage for perfectly shaped bars every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, oil, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Whisk everything together until it’s beautifully blended and smooth. This step is where all those warm spices start to infuse the pumpkin base with heavenly autumn flavors.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. This ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps your bars rise perfectly and maintain a tender crumb.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Into the Wet Mix
Add half of the dry ingredient mixture to the pumpkin mixture and stir it in thoroughly. Then add the remaining half and mix until smooth. Be sure to stop the mixer and scrape down the sides to incorporate everything evenly before giving it a final few pulses on high speed for that perfect batter consistency.
Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Bars
Pour the luscious pumpkin batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Pop it into the oven set at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This smells like fall in every inch of your kitchen as it bakes!
Step 6: Cool Completely
Once baked, carefully remove the bars from the oven and transfer the pan to a wire rack. Cooling completely is essential here because it sets the bars just right and prepares them for the dreamy frosting that’s about to top them.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars are in the oven, start the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This velvety base is the perfect foil to the spiced pumpkin bars.
Step 8: Flavor the Frosting
Add the vanilla extract and mix it in. The vanilla brings a lovely warmth and rounds out the tanginess of the cream cheese with a subtle sweetness.
Step 9: Add Sugar and Cream
Add half of the powdered sugar and the heavy cream, then blend until smooth. Finish by adding the remaining powdered sugar and mixing until the frosting is perfectly creamy. Scrape the bowl sides to make sure everything is incorporated evenly for that luscious texture.
Step 10: Chill the Frosting
Pop the frosting into the refrigerator and let it chill while your pumpkin bars cool completely. This step helps the frosting firm up slightly, making it easier to spread.
Step 11: Frost and Chill the Bars
Spread the chilled cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. For an elegant finishing touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top. Place the frosted bars back into the refrigerator for about an hour before cutting. This final chill sets the frosting beautifully so you get clean slices and an utterly irresistible treat.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of cinnamon or a light sprinkle of crushed pecans adds the perfect final touch, enhancing both the flavor and the texture. For a festive flair, try adding a swirl of whipped cream or a few toasted pumpkin seeds. These small touches make the bars feel extra special when sharing with guests.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk. The creamy frosting and spicy pumpkin filling are mellowed beautifully alongside warm beverages, creating a perfect afternoon snack or dessert combo. For a brunch spread, they also go great with creamy yogurt or fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these bars on a rustic wooden board or in a pretty glass dish to let the layers shine. Cut them into small squares for bite-sized treats at parties, or stack a few layers with parchment paper between for a delightful pumpkin bar sandwich. You can even drizzle a little caramel sauce over the frosting for an indulgent twist that will wow your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Pumpkin Pie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days, making them perfect for prepping ahead of gatherings or enjoying as an easy dessert during the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep these bars for longer, you can freeze them uncut in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. The frosting might soften a bit but will still taste delicious.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature because of the cream cheese frosting. If you prefer them softer, you can bring them to room temperature from the fridge before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the frosting and make the texture less pleasant.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is convenient. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that could affect the recipe.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese in the frosting?
If you need a substitute, try mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re done. Overbaking can dry them out, so keep an eye close around the 30-minute mark.
Can I make the Pumpkin Pie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe gluten-free?
You can! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just double-check that your blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to maintain the bars’ structure.
Is it possible to make these bars dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives for the frosting, and a suitable oil such as coconut or vegetable oil in the batter. The texture and flavor will still be delightful and suitable for dairy-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Pie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is an absolute treasure to have in your baking repertoire. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat but elegant enough for special occasions. I encourage you to try making them—they offer that magical blend of spice, sweetness, and creamy frosting that everyone adores. Once you do, these bars might just become your new fall obsession.
