Pin It Moist, warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting—an irresistibly cozy fall treat perfect for any gathering.
This is a favorite treat in our house every autumn, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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Ingredients
- For the Pumpkin Bars: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- For the Brown Sugar Frosting: 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened, 4 ounces cream cheese, softened, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2–4 tablespoons milk or cream
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- Step 5:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Step 6:
- Fold in walnuts or pecans, if using.
- Step 7:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 9:
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Step 10:
- For the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 11:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Step 12:
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Step 13:
- Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Step 14:
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Pin It These bars always bring everyone together during the holidays, creating warm and happy memories.
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Required Tools
9×13-inch baking pan, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Electric mixer or hand mixer, Spatula, Wire cooling rack, Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter, cream cheese), tree nuts (if using walnuts or pecans). Always verify ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 310, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 43 g, Protein: 3 g per serving
Pin It 
Enjoy these pumpkin bars as a perfect autumn dessert that’s sure to delight everyone.
Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I substitute the nuts in the bars?
Yes, walnuts or pecans can be swapped or omitted based on preference or allergies without affecting the moist texture.
- → How do I prevent the frosting from melting?
Ensure the bars are fully cooled before spreading the frosting to keep it smooth and intact.
- → What makes these bars moist?
The combination of pumpkin puree, oil, and eggs helps maintain a moist and tender crumb in the bars.
- → Can I lighten the bars for a healthier option?
Yes, substituting half the oil with unsweetened applesauce reduces fat while keeping moisture.
- → How long can the bars be stored?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
