Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that many people love, especially during the fall season. These bars are moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack, these pumpkin bars can brighten up any day. The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake.
The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates the bars, making them rich and indulgent. They are easy to make, so even novice bakers can whip up a batch without any hassle. Whether you are preparing for a holiday celebration or simply indulging on a weekend, these pumpkin bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Everyone can enjoy this classic dessert, making it a great recipe to share with friends and family. Give it a try, and you may find yourself reaching for that second piece!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is worthwhile because they bring the cozy flavors of fall to your kitchen. They are easy to prepare and great for sharing. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home. The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese creates a deliciously rich dessert that everyone will love. Plus, you can enjoy them at any time of year!
How to Make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, and eggs until well combined.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool completely before frosting.
- To make the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled pumpkin bars and cut into squares to serve.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting taste amazing when served fresh. Cut them into squares and place them on a nice serving platter. They are great on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of whipped cream or a sprinkling of nuts for added flavor and crunch.
How to Store Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To store your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days. If you have leftover bars, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor.
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
- Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
- Let the bars cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding chocolate chips, pecans, or using a spiced cake mix instead of all-purpose flour to give it a different flavor twist. You can also try different frostings like a caramel drizzle for a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works great and saves time.
How long can I freeze the pumpkin bars?
Pumpkin bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well before freezing.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars after frosting?
Yes, due to the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to refrigerate the bars to keep them fresh.
Can I make a smaller batch?
Absolutely! You can cut the ingredients in half and use a smaller baking dish.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Linda shares simple, family-friendly desserts with a playful twist — mostly cakes and cookies you can bake on busy days.
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