Description

These Pumpkin Bars are a cozy, crowd-pleasing fall dessert. Moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a sweet-tangy cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for potlucks, parties, or a comforting treat at home. Simple to make and hard to resist, this recipe brings the essence of autumn to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pumpkin Bars:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
4 eggs
1 (15 oz) can pumpkin purée (or scant 2 cups)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 18×13-inch baking sheet.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, and pumpkin until smooth.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
Pour batter into the pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Prepare frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, and salt until creamy.
Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until fluffy.
Frost the cooled bars, optionally sprinkle cinnamon on top, then slice into 24 squares.

Notes

Allow bars to cool fully before frosting to avoid melting.

Add a teaspoon of milk to the frosting if it’s too thick.

Top with chopped pecans for extra texture.

Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American