Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving the comforting flavors of fall. That’s when I whip up my Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. These bars are not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate! Perfect for busy days, they come together quickly and are sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a sweet pick-me-up, these bars are the answer. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be transported to a cozy autumn afternoon.
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
These Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful blend of ease and flavor. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for busy moms like us. The moist texture and rich frosting create a taste that feels like a warm embrace. Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. You’ll love how quickly they disappear!
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of your bars, giving them structure and a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars and helps create that lovely golden color.
- Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, making the bars even more delicious.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bars rise, giving them a light texture.
- Baking soda: Works with the pumpkin to create a fluffy, airy bar.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that brings the essence of fall to your bars.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth of flavor, enhancing the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
- Salt: Just a pinch 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.
- Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Canned pumpkin puree: The star of the show! It provides moisture and that classic pumpkin flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
- Cream cheese: The key ingredient for the frosting, giving it that rich, creamy texture.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the frosting; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Vanilla extract (for frosting): A touch of vanilla in the frosting makes it even more delightful.
For those who like to experiment, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an extra crunch or sweetness. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
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). This step is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use cooking spray or butter to ensure the bars don’t stick. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than losing half your delicious creation to the pan!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients. Start with the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is important because it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving your Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars the perfect rise and texture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined. The oil and eggs will add moisture, while the pumpkin puree brings that rich flavor we all love. This mixture is the heart of your bars, so give it a good whisk!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
It’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix them until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars light and fluffy. Remember, we want to keep that tender texture!
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. This ensures that every bite is just as delicious as the last. 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: Prepare the Frosting
While the bars are baking, let’s whip up that creamy frosting! In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This frosting is the cherry on top of your pumpkin bars. It should be creamy and spreadable, so take your time to mix it well. You’ll want to lick the bowl clean!
Step 7: Frost and Serve
Once the bars are completely cool, it’s time to frost them. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the bars. Cut them into squares, and voilà! Your Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are ready to be served. They’re perfect for sharing, but I won’t judge if you keep them all to yourself!
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 extra flavor, add a pinch of cloves or ginger to the batter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for even baking; you can use a glass or metal pan.
- Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy for combining ingredients.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry and wet ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
- Spatula: Great for spreading frosting and scraping the bowl clean.
- Toothpick: Essential for testing if the bars are done baking.
Variations
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor profile that enhances the pumpkin.
- Maple Frosting: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze for a different sweet touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your 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 pieces for easy sharing.
- Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful contrast.
FAQs about Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just cook and puree it until smooth. It will give your Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars a lovely homemade touch. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture to keep the bars from getting soggy.
How should I store leftover pumpkin bars?
Store your Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them without frosting for up to three months!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for making ahead. You can bake them a day or two in advance. Just frost them right before serving for the best flavor and texture. They’ll taste just as delicious!
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 instead of cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different, but still delicious!
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Definitely! Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can elevate your Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Just fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the pan for a delightful surprise in every bite!
Summarizing the Joy of Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
There’s something truly magical about baking Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. The aroma fills your home, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. Each bite is a delightful blend of moist pumpkin goodness and creamy frosting that brings smiles to faces young and old. These bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a way to create cherished memories with family and friends. Whether enjoyed at a cozy gathering or as a sweet treat after a long day, they remind us of the simple joys in life. So, let’s bake, share, and savor every moment together!
PrintOld-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Await You!
Deliciously moist pumpkin bars topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for fall gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the bars are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months without frosting.
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
