The New Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

There’s something magical about the flavors of fall. The scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin spice drifting through the kitchen instantly brings warmth and coziness to any day. Among the many beloved fall desserts, Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting stand out as a true classic. These soft, tender bars deliver the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and creaminess, making them a must-have for autumn gatherings, potlucks, or even a quiet afternoon treat at home. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to fall baking traditions, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and downright delicious.

My recipe story

This recipe has been a part of my family’s fall traditions for years. I remember my grandmother pulling out her worn recipe card around October and filling the house with the aroma of pumpkin and warm spices. She always insisted that pumpkin bars were more festive than pumpkin pie because they could be cut into squares and shared so easily at family gatherings. Over the years, I’ve made small adjustments to the recipe—perfecting the moisture of the bars and ensuring the cream cheese frosting has just the right balance of tangy and sweet. Each bite brings back those cherished memories of sitting around the table with family, celebrating the harvest season together.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, many of which are pantry staples. For the pumpkin bars, all-purpose flour provides structure, while baking powder and baking soda ensure a light and fluffy rise. The combination of sugar, eggs, and oil creates a tender crumb and locks in moisture, while canned pumpkin puree infuses the batter with unmistakable autumn flavor.

Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give the bars their signature warmth, perfectly complementing the pumpkin. The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious layer on top. Cream cheese brings a tangy balance, while powdered sugar sweetens without overpowering. A touch of vanilla extract ties the flavors together, resulting in a smooth, decadent frosting that pairs beautifully with the spiced bars.

Equipment you’ll need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper (optional, for easier removal)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Preparing the pan ensures that the bars bake evenly and release without sticking, giving you perfect, neat squares.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Combining the dry ingredients first prevents clumping and ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving every bite consistent flavor.

Step 3: Blend the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and oil together until smooth and slightly fluffy. Add in the pumpkin puree and mix until fully incorporated. This mixture forms the moist, flavorful base of the bars.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars dense instead of soft and tender. The batter should be smooth and thick.

Step 5: Bake the pumpkin bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 6: Make the cream cheese frosting
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Add vanilla extract, then gradually mix in powdered sugar until you reach a light, fluffy frosting. Chill slightly if needed for easier spreading.

Step 7: Frost and serve
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish or create swirls for a rustic look. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve. Each bar delivers the perfect bite of spiced pumpkin and creamy frosting!

Variations & substitutions

You can easily customize these pumpkin bars to suit your taste or dietary needs. Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a nutty crunch. Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if you’re baking for gluten-sensitive guests. For a lighter frosting, try using reduced-fat cream cheese. You could even skip the frosting entirely and dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar for a simpler presentation. Want extra spice? Increase the cinnamon or add a dash of ginger for a bolder kick.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

These pumpkin bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For make-ahead convenience, bake the bars and refrigerate them unfrosted for up to 2 days, then frost just before serving. To freeze, wrap the unfrosted bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add the cream cheese frosting fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Serving ideas & pairings

Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars are a delightful dessert on their own, but they also pair beautifully with other seasonal flavors. Serve them with a warm mug of spiced chai tea, hot apple cider, or even a pumpkin spice latte for a festive treat. For holiday gatherings, pair the bars with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent touch. They also complement savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham, making them a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dessert spread.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. Be sure to drain any excess liquid so the batter doesn’t become watery.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the bars a day or two ahead and store them unfrosted in the refrigerator. Add the frosting before serving for the freshest result.

How do I cut neat squares?
Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. For extra precision, chill the frosted bars before slicing—they’ll hold their shape better.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Bake in a large sheet pan if doubling. Keep in mind the baking time may need to be slightly adjusted, so check with a toothpick test.

What if I don’t like cream cheese frosting?
You can substitute buttercream, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. The bars are versatile and delicious no matter the topping.

Final thoughts

Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the essence of cozy fall baking. Their moist texture, spiced flavor, and luscious frosting make them a treat that everyone looks forward to. Easy to bake, versatile to customize, and perfect for sharing, these bars deserve a place on your seasonal dessert table. Whether enjoyed with friends at a fall festival or savored quietly with a cup of tea, this recipe guarantees comfort and joy in every bite.

The New Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Moist, spiced pumpkin bars topped with creamy, tangy frosting. A nostalgic fall dessert perfect for gatherings or cozy afternoons.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

• 4 large eggs
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup vegetable oil

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices until well combined.
3. In a large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, and oil until smooth, then mix in pumpkin puree.

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

5. Pour batter into prepared pan, spread evenly, and bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
6. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla, then gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.

7. Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars, cut into squares, and serve.

Notes

Store frosted bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For a lighter option, dust with powdered sugar instead of frosting. These bars freeze well unfrosted for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American