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April 29, 2025

A fall classic, perfected. Cakey spiced pumpkin bars are topped with a generous layer of tangy cream cheese frosting. The recipe is a Yummly original created by Sara Mellas.

Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting cover
From the Cook
From Rachael Langerud
From Rachael Langerud
1/2

Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients

Servings
Milk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

1
|
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2
|
Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
3
|
Place the softened butter, canola oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract into a large bowl. Use a mixer to cream together the ingredients on medium speed for 1 minute, or until well combined. Add the eggs and pumpkin puree, and continue to beat on medium speed for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until smooth.
4
|
Add the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Beat the mixture on medium speed until all ingredients are combined into a smooth, medium-thick batter, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
5
|
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
6
|
Bake the bars on middle rack of oven until edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 34-38 minutes.
7
|
Check to see that bars are done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.
8
|
Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for about 2 hours to cool completely before frosting. In the meantime, prepare the frosting.
9
|
Using a mixer, cream together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds to distribute the powdered sugar, then turn the mixer to medium-high speed and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, another 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
10
|
Remove the cooled bars from the refrigerator. Spread or pipe the frosting in an even layer over the surface.
11
|
Slice the bars as desired, and serve.

Smart Nutrition

My Calorie Intake

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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All Reviews
5.0

R
Rachael Langerud
5

I had so much fun making this recipe! I made a few modifications - swapping vegetable oil for the canola oil and cinnamon for the pumpkin pie spice. I also didn't use brown sugar or butter for the bars. This recipe was such a hit at my Friendsgiving!

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Nov 17, 2025

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Pumpkin Moisture Magic 💧
    Pat your canned pumpkin puree dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and prevent soggy bars, ensuring a perfectly tender texture.
  • Spice Bloom Technique 🌶️
    Toast your pumpkin pie spice in a dry pan for 30-60 seconds before adding to the batter to intensify and deepen the warm, aromatic flavors.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting Perfection 🧈
    Ensure cream cheese and butter are exactly room temperature (about 70°F) to create a smooth, lump-free frosting that spreads like silk.
  • Pan Preparation Pro Tip 🥣
    Line your baking pan with parchment paper that overhangs on two sides for easy lifting and clean, precise bar cutting.
  • Cooling Technique Mastery 🧊
    Allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely to room temperature before frosting to prevent the cream cheese topping from melting or sliding off.

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