Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Icing
Moist and flavorful pumpkin bars with creamy cream cheese icing, perfect for fall gatherings or dessert lovers seeking a spiced, sweet treat with a tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs, sugar, oil, and pumpkin together until light and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix well.
- Spread the batter evenly in an ungreased 9 x 15-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely, then spread with cream cheese icing.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. If you don't have cooked pumpkin, canned pumpkin puree can be a great substitute. Always ensure your dry ingredients are well combined before adding to the wet mixture, as this promotes even baking. For an alternative icing, try using Cookie Vanilla Frosting for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
These pumpkin bars are perfect for fall gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve them as a dessert or snack, and consider topping them with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. They also go well with a drizzle of Mrs. Capp'S Heavenly Hot Fudge Sauce for an indulgent treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Icing contains roughly 527 calories, with 5g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 787mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth before using it in the recipe. Fresh pumpkin may have a slightly different moisture content, so adjust the baking time accordingly if necessary.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use one that includes xanthan gum to help with the structure of the bars. The texture may vary slightly, but they should turn out delicious.
What can I add to the cream cheese icing for extra flavor?
Adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese icing can enhance its flavor. For a citrusy twist, consider incorporating some lemon zest. This will complement the pumpkin nicely and add an interesting layer of flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).