Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting – A Classic Fall Favorite

There’s something magical about the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the kitchen on a crisp autumn day. These Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the kind of nostalgic treat that brings back memories of cozy gatherings, holiday baking, and second helpings. They’re soft, moist, and warmly spiced—topped with a thick layer of tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting that makes every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re baking for a fall potluck, Thanksgiving dessert table, or just a weekend treat, these bars are a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Bars

  • Soft and moist – Thanks to pumpkin puree and the perfect blend of spices.
  • Classic flavor – Warm cinnamon and nutmeg give these bars that nostalgic autumn taste.
  • Easy to make – Simple ingredients and no mixer required for the batter.
  • Cream cheese frosting – Rich, tangy, and perfectly sweet.
  • Feeds a crowd – Bakes in a sheet pan and slices beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Bars

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1⅔ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
    Not pumpkin pie filling—just pure pumpkin.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the frosting for a spiced twist.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Spatula
  • Cooling rack
  • Offset spatula (for frosting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt

Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • 4 eggs
  • 1⅔ cups sugar
  • 1 cup oil
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, beat together:

  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • ½ cup butter
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

Cut into squares and serve.

Optional: Garnish with chopped pecans, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel.

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Cool Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bars
  • Calories: ~280 kcal per bar (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and frosting.
  • Don’t overmix the batter—just stir until combined.
  • Cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Use a serrated knife for clean cuts.

Variations to Try

  • Spiced Frosting: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or maple extract to the frosting.
  • Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars: Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips.
  • Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • Mini Bars: Bake in a jellyroll pan for thinner bars and reduce bake time to 20–22 minutes.

Perfect For…

  • Fall baking
  • Thanksgiving dessert
  • Potlucks and bake sales
  • Afternoon coffee breaks
  • Cozy weekend treats

Final Thoughts

These Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are everything you want in a fall dessert—warm spices, rich pumpkin flavor, and a dreamy layer of cream cheese frosting. They’re easy to make, easy to love, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is a seasonal staple you’ll come back to year after year.

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