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Easy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.1 from 11 reviews

These Easy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a deliciously moist and spiced treat perfect for fall or any time you crave a sweet pumpkin dessert. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these bars feature a tender pumpkin cake base topped with a rich, creamy frosting that complements the warm spices beautifully.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • 16 oz pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling; Libby’s canned recommended)
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup cooking oil

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp cinnamon

Frosting

  • 1 can cream cheese frosting (or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, pumpkin puree, sugar, and cooking oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  2. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
  3. Prepare Baking Pan: Spread the batter evenly onto an ungreased 15x10x1 inch baking pan. Using an ungreased pan helps the bars get a slightly crispier edge.
  4. Bake the Bars: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Cool and Frost: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the bars.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Slice into bars and serve. These pumpkin bars are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy seasonal dessert.

Notes

  • Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best texture and flavor.
  • Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  • You can make homemade cream cheese frosting by blending cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract if preferred.
  • Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • These bars can also be frozen after frosting for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.