Can pumpkin bars be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Pumpkin bars are a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can bake them up to 2 days in advance and store them (unfrosted or frosted) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavor deepens after a day, making them even more delicious.

What frosting is best for pumpkin bars?

Cream cheese frosting is the classic—and for good reason. Its tangy richness balances the sweet, spiced flavor of the bars perfectly. If you want a creative spin, try adding maple syrup or use a peanut butter frosting for a fun flavor twist.

How do I store pumpkin bars?

Store frosted pumpkin bars in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days. If you haven’t added frosting yet, you can keep them at room temperature (covered) for a day or two. To prevent drying out, avoid slicing until you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting?

Yes, and they freeze beautifully. Simply slice the bars, separate layers with parchment paper, and store in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Pumpkin Bars Recipe – 1 Easy Step to Cozy, Moist Dessert

Name: Pumpkin Bars Recipe That’s Moist, Easy, and Irresistible
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin; 4 large eggs; 1 cup vegetable oil; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 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; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese; 1/2 cup butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Description

Soft, moist pumpkin bars packed with warm spices and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy treat with your coffee.

Ingredients

Scale

1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin

4 large eggs

1 cup vegetable oil

2 cups granulated sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 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

1 tsp vanilla extract

For frosting:

8 oz cream cheese

1/2 cup butter

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. In a bowl, beat eggs, sugar, oil, and pumpkin until smooth.

3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.

4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Mix just until combined.

5. Spread batter evenly in pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes.

6. Cool completely on a wire rack.

7. To make frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy.

8. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until smooth.

9. Frost bars once fully cooled. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

Make sure bars are fully cooled before frosting.

Store in fridge for up to 5 days.

Freeze for up to 2 months, layered with parchment.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 140mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg