Autumn is here, and with it comes the scent of pumpkin spice, warm kitchens, and comforting baked goods. Today, I’m sharing a delightful recipe for Fall Pumpkin Bars—moist, spiced, and topped with creamy frosting. These bars are not only delicious but incredibly easy to make, perfect for those cozy fall days when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re versatile enough to enjoy as a breakfast treat, dessert, or snack. Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the details!
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Why You’ll Love These Fall Pumpkin Bars
- Packed with Flavor: These bars are rich with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, making each bite a burst of autumn goodness.
- Moist and Soft: The pumpkin puree gives these bars an incredible moist texture that stays soft for days.
- Easy to Make: No need for any fancy equipment; this recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a fall get-together or need a simple dessert for family dinners, these pumpkin bars are a crowd-pleaser!
What Do These Pumpkin Bars Taste Like?
Imagine the warmth of a pumpkin pie and the comfort of a soft cake, blended into a bar. These pumpkin bars have a tender crumb, enhanced by the cozy spices of fall. Each bite is subtly sweet and pumpkin-y, with the added delight of a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting on top.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Bars
Did you know pumpkin is loaded with nutrients? It’s packed with vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, making these bars not only tasty but also a sneaky way to get some extra vitamins. Of course, they’re still a treat, but every bit of added nutrition counts!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious pumpkin bars:
For the Pumpkin Bars:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Tools You’ll Need:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
- Sugar: Swap out granulated sugar for coconut sugar or use half brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Oil: Feel free to use melted butter instead of vegetable oil for a buttery taste.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for an extra depth of flavor.
- Nuts: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a nutty crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Fall Pumpkin Bars
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Combine and Mix:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Pour and Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool Completely:
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack.
7. Make the Frosting:
In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
8. Frost the Bars:
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares and enjoy!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Bars
These pumpkin bars are perfect on their own, but if you want to take them up a notch, serve them with:
- A dollop of whipped cream
- A sprinkle of chopped nuts
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- A warm cup of spiced chai tea or coffee
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bars
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the bars dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the eggs, cream cheese, and butter come to room temperature before using to ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
- Chill the Bars: For cleaner cuts and firmer texture, refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes before slicing.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze these bars (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Q: How do I make the bars sweeter?
A: Add an extra ¼ cup of sugar to the batter or a drizzle of maple syrup on top of the frosted bars.
Wrapping Up: Why You Need to Make These Pumpkin Bars
These Fall Pumpkin Bars are a simple yet satisfying way to bring the essence of autumn into your kitchen. They’re incredibly moist, packed with cozy spices, and topped with a creamy frosting that makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re easy enough to make for any occasion, from weekday snacks to holiday gatherings!
🍁 More Pumpkin Recipes to Try
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins
- Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping
- Creamy Pumpkin Soup
Share Your Creation!
If you try this recipe, I’d love to see it! Share your photos on Pinterest and tag me so I can admire your delicious work.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~220
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 3g
Happy baking, and may your autumn be filled with warmth, flavor, and lots of pumpkin treats! 🍂
