Why You’ll Love this Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
You’re going to fall in love with these pumpkin bars the moment you take a bite. The rich pumpkin flavor paired with the creamy frosting creates a heavenly treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
I can’t resist the moist texture and delightful spices that remind me of autumn. These bars are super easy to make, too; you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together.
Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them solo, each bite is pure bliss. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close for all your fall gatherings.
Ingredients of Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting
When it comes to baking something that screams fall, pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are the perfect choice. These bars are incredibly easy to whip up and require ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. The combination of pumpkin, sugar, and warm spices creates a cozy flavor that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
And can we talk about that cream cheese frosting? It adds the perfect creamy touch that takes these bars to the next level. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to bake something delicious!
Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful pumpkin bars:
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin
- 1 cup oil
- 2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 cup soft butter
- 1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1-2 teaspoons milk
- 1 1/2 – 3 cups powdered sugar
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a moment. You might be wondering if you can substitute anything, and the answer is yes, but with caution.
For instance, if you don’t have pumpkin puree, you could use homemade pumpkin puree from roasted pumpkins, but make sure it’s not too watery. And while you can swap out the oil for applesauce to make it a bit healthier, it might alter the texture slightly.
Also, using fresh spices instead of ground ones can give you a more vibrant flavor, but hey, we’re not all spice wizards in the kitchen, right? Just remember, the goal is to enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
How to Make Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting
Making pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting is like inviting a cozy autumn festival right into your kitchen. First, you’ll want to grab a large mixing bowl and combine 2 cups of sugar, 4 beaten eggs, 1 (15-ounce) can of pumpkin, and 1 cup of oil. Mix them together until everything is well blended—think of it as a little pumpkin party where everyone gets to mingle nicely.
Once that’s done, sift together the dry ingredients: 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. The sifting part might feel like an extra step, but it’s essential for a light and fluffy texture, so don’t skip it—trust me, you want these bars to be as delightful as possible.
Now, it’s time to fold those dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Gently stir until no floury streaks remain, but don’t get too aggressive; we want to keep our bars tender, not tough.
Next, pour this glorious batter into a greased jellyroll pan. It can be a bit of a workout, but spreading it evenly will guarantee all parts enjoy the same warmth and love in the oven. Bake at 325°F for about 25 minutes. This is the part where the aroma starts to fill your home, and you might find yourself doing a little jig in anticipation.
Once it’s golden and a toothpick comes out clean, let those beauties cool completely.
While your pumpkin bars are cooling, let’s whip up that cream cheese frosting, shall we? In a separate mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of soft butter, 1 (8-ounce) package of softened cream cheese, 2 teaspoons of vanilla, and 1-2 teaspoons of milk. Beat it all together until it’s light and fluffy—this is where you can really let your mixer do its thing.
Once it’s dreamy and smooth, gradually add in 1 1/2 to 3 cups of powdered sugar. Seriously, start with the lower amount and add more if you want it sweeter; it’s all about personal preference here. And if you find the frosting too thick, a splash more milk can save the day.
Once your pumpkin bars have cooled, generously frost them with your luscious cream cheese frosting, and just like that, you’ve created a delightful fall treat that your friends and family won’t stop raving about. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!
Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting Substitutions & Variations
While pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are already a delightful treat, there’s always room to make them your own through substitutions and variations.
For a healthier twist, I often swap out half the oil for unsweetened applesauce. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, using almond flour works great!
I’ve even added chocolate chips for a fun surprise. To spice things up, try adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the batter.
As for the frosting, mixing in some maple syrup instead of powdered sugar gives it a unique flavor.
Get creative and enjoy your personalized pumpkin bars!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting
After customizing your pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting to suit your taste, you might wonder what to serve alongside this delicious treat.
I love pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich coffee; the flavors complement each other perfectly. For a lighter option, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast.
If you’re hosting, consider serving them with a platter of fresh fruit, like apples or pears, to balance the sweetness.
These accompaniments enhance the experience and make the pumpkin bars truly shine at any gathering!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your pumpkin bars turn out perfectly, I recommend measuring your ingredients accurately and using room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smoother batter.
Don’t skip the step of greasing your jellyroll pan; this will make it easier to cut and serve the bars.
If you want to add a little extra flavor, try mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
When it comes to frosting, adjust the powdered sugar and milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Finally, let the bars cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting.
Enjoy every bite!