When the fall season arrives, nothing quite captures the essence of the holidays like the sweet and spiced flavors of pumpkin. These Pumpkin Gooey Butter Bars take the classic gooey butter cake and elevate it with the addition of creamy pumpkin, aromatic spices, and a buttery crust. If you’re looking for an indulgent dessert to serve during the holidays or to simply enjoy on a chilly autumn evening, these bars are the perfect combination of sweetness and spice. Their soft, gooey center paired with the slightly crisp crust will leave you wanting more with every bite.

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The Inspiration Behind the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Bars 

Gooey butter cake originated in St. Louis, Missouri, where it became a beloved local favorite. Over time, variations of the original recipe have emerged, and the addition of pumpkin has quickly become a fall favorite. The combination of cream cheese and pumpkin creates a luscious, velvety texture, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg give these bars their warm, inviting flavor. This dessert is perfect for pumpkin lovers who enjoy rich, creamy treats that are easy to make yet impressive to serve.

Why Pumpkin Gooey Butter Bars are Irresistible  

The allure of these bars comes from their soft, gooey filling, which contrasts beautifully with the buttery cake crust. The flavors of spiced pumpkin and the creamy richness from the cream cheese balance out the sweetness, creating a dessert that’s indulgent without being overly sweet. Best of all, they’re simple to prepare, making them a go-to treat for both novice and experienced bakers.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving: 12 servings) 

• Calories: 350 kcal  
• Fat: 22g  
• Carbohydrates: 37g  
• Protein: 4g  
• Sugar: 26g

Serving Suggestions

These Pumpkin Gooey Butter Bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, making them an ideal dessert to prepare ahead of time. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. They’re perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply as a fall dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee.

Storage Information

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well—just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Fun Fact 

Did you know that the gooey butter cake was created by accident? Legend has it that a baker in St. Louis mistakenly added the wrong proportions of ingredients to a cake recipe, resulting in a “gooey” center. Instead of discarding the cake, the baker decided to serve it, and the gooey butter cake quickly became a regional hit.

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Pumpkin Gooey Butter Bars Recipe

Ingredients for the Crust:  

• - 1 box yellow cake mix  
• - 1 large egg  
• - ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted  

Ingredients for the Filling:  

• - One 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened  
• - One 15-ounce can unsweetened pumpkin puree  
• - 3 large eggs  
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract  
• - ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted  
• - One 16-ounce box powdered sugar  
• - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon  
• - 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg  

Instructions:  

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and set aside.  

2. In a medium bowl, combine the cake mix, egg, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.  

3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and pumpkin puree until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter, and continue mixing until fully incorporated.  

4. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg, mixing well after each addition.  

5. Pour the filling mixture over the cake crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.  

6. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, ensuring the center is still slightly gooey. Avoid overbaking.  

7. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator before serving.  

8. Serve the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Bars as they are or with a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Optional Variations:

- Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans to the top of the filling before baking for a crunchy texture.  

- Drizzle the bars with caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.  

These Pumpkin Gooey Butter Bars are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to become a fall favorite. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, their irresistible combination of pumpkin, cream cheese, and buttery goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds.