Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect autumn treat. These delightful bars combine the rich flavors of pumpkin with a luscious cream cheese topping, creating an explosion of taste that will wow your friends and family. When you take a bite, the moist, spiced pumpkin cake melts in your mouth, kissed by the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting. It’s an amazing dessert that captures the essence of the fall season.
If you enjoy treats that carry the nostalgic flavors of holidays gone by, then you’ll love these bars. The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves come together beautifully, while the cream cheese adds just the right touch of tanginess. Imagine serving these at your next gathering, where each bite leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply craving a cozy afternoon snack, these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting will undoubtedly steal the show.
In this article, we will explore why this recipe is a must-try, go through the preparation and cooking times, and give you a detailed list of ingredients and simple yet effective step-by-step instructions. Let’s dive in and discover how to create these incredible pumpkin bars that are sure to become a beloved tradition in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are just a few that will make you want to bake these delightful treats today:
1. Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese frosting creates a harmonious pairing that is both sweet and slightly tangy.
2. Easy to Make: This recipe has simple steps, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a fall gathering, Thanksgiving dinner, or simply a treat for the family, these bars fit seamlessly into any event.
4. Moist and Tender Texture: Unlike dry cake, these pumpkin bars remain moist due to the pumpkin and are easy to cut and serve.
5. Make Ahead: You can easily make these bars the day before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
6. Versatile Toppings: While cream cheese frosting is common, you can also sprinkle nuts, chocolate chips, or a dash of powdered sugar for added flair.
With these enticing qualities, it’s easy to see why Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a favorite among so many home bakers. Each bite is a celebration of fall flavors and comforting nostalgia.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is a straightforward process. Here’s an overview of the time commitment involved:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Cooling Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
These times may vary slightly depending on your kitchen setup and experience, but they provide a reliable framework to help you plan your baking adventure.

Ingredients

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4 large eggs
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
– 2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your very own Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well blended. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until fully incorporated. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Make sure not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes.
8. Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: While the bars cool, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add the vanilla extract and enough milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.
9. Frost the Bars: Once the pumpkin bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
10. Serve or Store: Cut into squares and serve immediately, or store them covered in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.
By following these steps, you will achieve moist, flavorful pumpkin bars crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting that everyone will adore.

How to Serve

To elevate your serving experience of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, consider the following tips:
1. Presentation: Use a decorative serving platter or cake stand to display your pumpkin bars. A simple garnish of crushed nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the frosting can add a nice visual touch.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with freshly brewed coffee, hot cocoa, or chai tea. A scoop of vanilla ice cream can also be a delightful addition, especially for those who love a creamy dessert experience.
3. Portion Size: Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces to encourage guests to enjoy more than one. Smaller portions also allow for a variety of desserts without overwhelming plates.
4. Toppings: Offer optional toppings on the side, such as caramel sauce, whipped cream, or even chocolate drizzle, to enhance each cover and customize the experience.
5. Seasonal Touches: For a festive touch, consider serving these bars during fall holidays with themed decorations on the dessert table. A few seasonal decorations can create an inviting atmosphere.
By thoughtfully considering how to serve these amazing pumpkin bars, you can create a memorable dessert experience for you and your guests. Enjoy every bite!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If possible, consider using homemade pumpkin puree for a fresher flavor, but canned pumpkin works just fine too. Choose a high-quality brand for the best results.
– Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences. You can increase the ginger for a spicier kick or use pumpkin pie spice.
– Let It Chill: Allow the pumpkin bars to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours after frosting. Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes the frosting firm.

Recipe Variation

Mix things up by trying one of these variations:
1. Chocolate Swirl: Add cocoa powder to part of the batter and swirl it into the pumpkin batter for a delightful chocolate and pumpkin combination.
2. Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
3. Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute maple syrup for some of the powdered sugar in the frosting for a unique flavor twist.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep the pumpkin bars covered in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last about 4-5 days while maintaining their delicious texture.
– Freezing: You can freeze the uncut bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment

To make your baking experience smooth, gather these essential tools:
– Large mixing bowl
– Electric mixer for the frosting
– 9×13 inch baking pan
– Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)
– Rubber spatula for spreading the batter and frosting

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh roasted pumpkin. Just ensure it’s well pureed so the texture remains consistent.

How do I know when the pumpkin bars are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar, but remember that this might affect the texture and sweetness of the bars.

How should I serve my pumpkin bars?

Serve them chilled with a dollop of additional cream cheese frosting, or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

What if my cream cheese frosting is too runny?

If your frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful, nostalgic treat that perfectly captures the essence of the fall season. Their moist texture and spiced flavor, combined with rich cream cheese frosting, make them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you prepare them for a festive gathering or as a simple family treat, they are sure to impress and satisfy. With easy variations and storage options, these bars can become a staple in your autumn baking repertoire. Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of this timeless dessert!

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