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

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Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate fall treat—moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a rich, tangy frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family night or prepping for a festive get-together, these bars are a guaranteed hit. They’re easy, delicious, and taste just like autumn feels!

Ready in 45 Minutes – Perfect for last-minute gatherings or weeknight cravings.
Classic Fall Flavors – Packed with pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg for that nostalgic taste.
Velvety Cream Cheese Frosting – A smooth, sweet topping that takes these bars to the next level.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your bars, providing structure and a soft texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars and helps create that lovely moistness.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bars rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
Baking soda: Works with the acids in the pumpkin to create a tender crumb.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that brings the essence of fall to your bars.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of warmth and depth, enhancing the pumpkin flavor.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the bars moist and tender; you can substitute with melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
Canned pumpkin puree: The star of the show! It provides moisture and that classic pumpkin taste.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile, making it even more delightful.
Cream cheese: The key ingredient for the frosting, giving it that creamy, tangy goodness.
Butter: Adds richness to the frosting; use unsalted for better control over the saltiness.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth, spreadable texture.
Vanilla extract (for frosting): Just a touch enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.

How to Make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. This will ensure your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting come out easily and don’t stick. A little oil or butter works wonders!

Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the flavors throughout your pumpkin bars.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, canned pumpkin puree, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is mixed well. This mixture is where the magic happens, bringing moisture and flavor to your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your bars light and fluffy, just the way we love them!

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars are baking, it’s time to whip up the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This frosting is the perfect complement to your pumpkin bars!

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut them into squares and serve. These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are ready to be enjoyed, and I guarantee they’ll disappear quickly!

Tips for Success

Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Let the bars cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother frosting.
For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking pan: Essential for baking your pumpkin bars. A glass or metal pan works well.
Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for dry ingredients and one for wet.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly; a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: Great for spreading the batter and frosting evenly.
Toothpick: Handy for checking if the bars are done baking.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
Spiced Up: Enhance the flavor by adding 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based cream cheese for a vegan-friendly dessert.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with a warm cup of spiced chai or apple cider for a cozy treat.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent touch.
For a festive presentation, sprinkle some cinnamon or chopped nuts on the frosting.
These bars are perfect for potlucks; cut them into bite-sized squares for easy sharing.

Pumpkin Bars with Chocolate Chips: A Delicious Fall Treat!

Pumpkin Bars with Chocolate Chips are a delightful fall treat that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with the sweetness of chocolate chips.

FAQs about Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Can I make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting them sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How should I store leftover pumpkin bars?

To keep your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I freeze these pumpkin bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars! Just make sure they are completely cooled and frosted. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. Both will give you a creamy texture, but the flavor will be slightly different. For a vegan alternative, try using a plant-based cream cheese.

Can I add more spices to the pumpkin bars?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like ground ginger or allspice. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile of your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, making them even more delightful!

Final Thoughts

Making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will transport you to cozy autumn days, surrounded by loved ones. Each bite is a celebration of fall, filled with warmth and sweetness. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these bars bring joy to any occasion. I hope you find as much happiness in making and sharing these delightful treats as I do. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!