Name: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 8 oz cream cheese softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

When autumn rolls around, there’s something irresistibly comforting about the warm, spiced aroma of pumpkin baking in the oven. These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the very essence of fall, delivering a moist, tender crumb bursting with pumpkin flavor, and topped with a luscious layer of tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend treat, a Halloween party, or a Thanksgiving dessert table, these bars are guaranteed to impress.

They slice beautifully and serve effortlessly, making them ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or gifting in seasonal treat boxes. The creamy frosting balances the gently spiced pumpkin base, and with each bite, you’ll taste why this dessert is a seasonal staple. No fussy layers, no decorating stress—just pure, delicious comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Incredibly Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and a touch of oil, these bars stay soft for days.
Crowd-Pleaser: Cut into squares and ready to serve—they vanish fast!
Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together in a no-fail recipe.
Perfectly Spiced: Just the right amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to warm every bite.
Make-Ahead Friendly: They actually taste better the next day, making your prep easier.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the mixing bowl, make sure your kitchen is stocked with a few essential tools. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:

9×13″ Baking Pan: Ensures even baking and the ideal bar height. Non-stick or lined with parchment for easy removal.
Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Vital for whipping the cream cheese frosting until it’s ultra-smooth.
Mixing Bowls (Large and Medium): Helps you keep the wet and dry ingredients separate until it’s time to combine.
Rubber Spatula: Perfect for scraping every last bit of pumpkin batter and frosting out of the bowl.
Wire Rack: Cooling your bars completely before frosting is key to preventing a melty mess.

Once you have your tools ready, the rest is a smooth, cinnamon-scented breeze!

Ingredients for the Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Each ingredient in this cozy fall treat plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor:

Pumpkin Puree: The heart of the recipe, it keeps the bars moist and full of rich pumpkin flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure while keeping the crumb soft.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bars and enhances the pumpkin’s natural earthiness.
Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a hint of molasses that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Vegetable Oil: Ensures the bars stay moist and tender.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor with warm undertones.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Give the bars the right lift and softness.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg & Ginger: These warm spices bring out the cozy, fall-inspired flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting, adding tang and richness.
Butter: Helps create a silky, spreadable texture.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps with stability.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the frosting’s flavor profile.

How To Make the Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until light and creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. If you’d like, top each square with a festive candy pumpkin or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

How to Serve and Store Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

These bars shine best when served slightly chilled or at room temperature. Their soft, tender crumb pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting, making each bite a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Serve them on a platter for dessert, brunch, or as part of a fall-themed sweet table.

To store, place the frosted bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid smudging the frosting. You can also freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 2 months—just thaw and frost before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sure the bars don’t turn out dry?

Make sure not to overbake them. Pull them out of the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out clean. Also, don’t skip the oil and pumpkin puree—they’re key for moisture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure it’s well pureed and not watery. Fresh pumpkin often has more moisture, so drain it slightly if needed.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store them in the fridge until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?

If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, try a vanilla buttercream or even a maple glaze for a fun twist.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger sheet pan or bake in two batches. Watch your baking time closely, as a bigger batch might take slightly longer.

Do I have to refrigerate them?

Yes, because of the cream cheese frosting. If serving at an event, they can sit out for a couple of hours, but refrigerate afterward.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Fall Twist?

If you’re loving these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, don’t stop here. Fall baking is full of rich flavors and comforting textures. Here are some of our other reader-favorite treats:

Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for nutty, sweet goodness with a Southern touch.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake if you want your cheesecake with a swirl of spice.
Amish Applesauce Cake packed with cozy flavors and perfect with a warm drink.
Quick and Easy Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies for those who love a chewy, chocolaty twist.
Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake for a sweet and fruity retro-style dessert.

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I’d love to hear how your pumpkin bars turned out! Did you top them with anything festive? Add a sprinkle of spice? Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments — we’re baking through this season together.