Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting – Quick & Delicious
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 eggs, beaten; 16 oz pumpkin puree (not pie filling); 1½ cups sugar; 1 cup cooking oil (or applesauce substitute); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp cinnamon; Optional: ½ tsp each ginger, cloves, pumpkin pie spice; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 4 cups confectioners’ sugar

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Jump to Recipe

As soon as the air turns crisp, I start craving cozy desserts like these pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting. There’s just something comforting about baking with pumpkin this time of year. The kitchen fills with warm, spiced aromas while a soft cake cools on the counter, waiting for that luscious layer of tangy frosting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love sharing this recipe because it’s one of those comforting, no-fuss desserts that brings people together. Pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting remind me of fall gatherings and simple kitchen moments, where the smell of cinnamon and pumpkin fills the air and everyone is eager for a sweet bite. The recipe is easy and reliable, yet it always feels special. It’s perfect for sharing with friends, bringing to potlucks, or just treating yourself at home — and that’s exactly the kind of recipe I want in my collection.

Stack of moist pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting and cinnamon sticks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pumpkin Bars

4 eggs, beaten
16 oz pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1½ cups sugar
1 cup cooking oil (or substitute applesauce for a lighter option)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
Optional: ½ tsp each ginger, cloves, pumpkin pie spice for more spice depth

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

1 can cream cheese frosting (for convenience)
Or homemade:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, in a large bowl, combine beaten eggs, pumpkin puree, sugar, and oil. Mix until smooth.

Next, add the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and any extra spices you love. Stir gently until combined.

Pour the batter into an ungreased 15x10x1 inch baking pan. Smooth the top and bake for 25–30 minutes.

Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely. This step is key because the frosting needs a cool surface.

When cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into bars and enjoy!

Tray of sliced pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting, one lifted on vintage silver spatula.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bars

Don’t over-mix the batter. Doing so can make the bars tough.

If you prefer thicker bars, you can use a 9×13 pan but adjust the baking time slightly.

Cool completely before frosting. The frosting will melt if the cake is warm.

Chill the bars before serving for even better flavor and texture.

Decorate with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or festive toppings like candy corn for extra seasonal flair.

These bars stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 3 months.

FAQs about Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frostin

Can I make these pumpkin bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake them up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate until you’re ready to frost and serve.

How should I store pumpkin bars?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The frosting keeps them nice and moist.

Can I freeze pumpkin bars?

Absolutely. Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding frosting.