When autumn rolls around, there’s nothing better than a comforting, spiced dessert to satisfy those seasonal cravings. Easy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a perfect way to embrace fall flavors. These bars are incredibly moist, infused with warm spices like cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, and topped with a creamy, rich frosting that takes them to the next level. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday party, or just because, these bars are sure to be a hit with everyone who takes a bite.

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The Inspiration Behind Easy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin is one of the quintessential flavors of fall, and these bars celebrate that beautifully. The combination of earthy pumpkin puree with sweet spices and a light, airy texture makes these bars irresistible. Topped with a tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting, they’re a perfect balance of flavors. This recipe takes the best parts of pumpkin pie and transforms them into a snackable dessert that’s easier to make and even easier to share.

Why Easy Pumpkin Bars Will Be Your Favorite Fall Dessert

• Quick to make: These bars are easy to whip up and require only basic pantry ingredients.
• Full of flavor: Pumpkin, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice come together to create a perfectly spiced, flavorful dessert.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for your family, these bars are perfect for slicing up and serving.
• Creamy frosting: The rich and smooth cream cheese frosting adds a delightful contrast to the soft, spiced bars, making every bite a treat.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 260mg
• Sugar: 30g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These pumpkin bars are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

• As a fall dessert: Serve these bars as the perfect sweet finish to any fall meal.
• Holiday gatherings: Bring them to a Thanksgiving potluck or any holiday party, and watch them disappear.
• Afternoon snack: Enjoy a slice with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate afternoon treat.
• Dessert buffet: These bars pair perfectly with other fall favorites like apple pie, spiced cookies, or warm cider.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Pumpkin bars store well and make great leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The cream cheese frosting will remain fresh and delicious.
• Freeze: You can freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Once thawed, add the cream cheese frosting before serving.
• Reheat: Serve the bars chilled or allow them to come to room temperature. The frosting may firm up in the fridge, but softens again at room temperature.

Fun Fact: The History of Pumpkin in Baking

Pumpkin has been a staple in American baking since colonial times, when early settlers adapted native pumpkins into their European-style baked goods. Pumpkin pies became a Thanksgiving tradition, but over time, bakers began exploring other ways to use pumpkin, including in moist, spiced cakes and bars like this recipe!

Cooking Tips

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth, creamy frosting.
• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid dense bars.
• Sift the powdered sugar: This step ensures a smooth, lump-free frosting that’s easy to spread.

Optional Variations

• Add nuts: For extra texture, fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter.
• Chocolate lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a hint of chocolate that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Spiced cream cheese frosting: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frosting for an extra layer of fall flavor.

Drink Pairings

• Alcoholic: A glass of spiced rum or a creamy pumpkin beer would complement the warm spices in the bars.
• Non-Alcoholic: Pair with a cozy cup of chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or hot cider for the perfect fall treat.

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Easy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Ingredients:

For the pumpkin bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tsp salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 4 oz (½ package) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Bake the bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely.
6. Make the cream cheese frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
7. Frost the bars: Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

These Easy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate fall dessert. Soft, moist, and perfectly spiced, they’re topped with a smooth, tangy frosting that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a taste of autumn, these bars are guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.