Pumpkin Bars are a soft, moist, and warmly spiced dessert topped with rich cream cheese frosting. These bars are perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday dessert tables, or a cozy sweet treat any time of year. With the comforting flavor of pumpkin and cinnamon in every bite, they’re a seasonal classic that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Pumpkin Bars are easy to make, feed a crowd, and deliver a perfect balance of sweet pumpkin flavor and creamy frosting. The cake-like texture is tender and moist, while the cream cheese frosting adds richness without being too sweet. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a festive event, these bars are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bars:

4 large eggs
1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Pumpkin Bars:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree until smooth and well blended.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking soda.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Bake:
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Make the Frosting:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth consistency.
Assemble:
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Serve:
Slice into 24 even bars and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per bar

Variations

Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for extra autumn flavor.
Maple Frosting: Substitute maple extract for vanilla to give the frosting a warm, seasonal twist.
Pumpkin Chocolate Bars: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey variation.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted or fully frosted bars in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Serving: Best served chilled or at room temperature. No reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works well as long as it’s thick and not too watery.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can bake the bars and frost them up to a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, you can use a 9×13-inch pan for thicker bars. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but it may affect the sweetness and texture. Try cutting no more than 1/4 cup from the total amount.

What’s the best way to spread the frosting?

Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bars are done.

Can I skip the frosting?

Yes, the bars are flavorful on their own, but the cream cheese frosting enhances the overall taste and texture.

Can I use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, melted coconut oil can be substituted, but it may slightly alter the flavor.

How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.

Are these bars freezer-friendly?

Yes, they freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Bars are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall. Moist, spiced, and topped with a creamy layer of frosting, they are simple to make and sure to please a crowd. Whether for a holiday dessert table or an afternoon coffee treat, these bars bring seasonal charm and rich flavor to every bite.

Pumpkin Bars

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: About 10 cups of popcorn
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This sweet and salty Grinch Popcorn is a whimsical holiday treat perfect for Christmas movie nights, party favors, or edible gifts! Made with gooey green marshmallow coating, a sprinkle of red M&M’s, and mini marshmallows, this vibrant popcorn snack is both fun and delicious—just like the Grinch’s growing heart.

Ingredients

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Pop and Prep:
Pop the popcorn and season lightly with salt. Place in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Marshmallow Mix:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add 3 cups mini marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
Color It Green:
Remove from heat and add a few drops of yellow food coloring, then a drop of blue. Mix well to create that perfect Grinch green hue.
Coat the Popcorn:
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Decorate:
Spread popcorn onto a baking sheet. While still warm, sprinkle with the remaining mini marshmallows and red M&M’s.

Set and Serve:
Allow to cool and set for a few minutes. Once firm, break into pieces and enj

Notes

Add a drop of vanilla extract to the marshmallow mix for extra flavor.
Let the kids help with decorating—it’s a fun holiday activity!
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10minutes
Category: Snack, Holiday Treat
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American