Fall is one of my absolute favorite seasons, and these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars capture everything I love about autumn baking. There’s something magical about taking a humble can of pumpkin puree and transforming it into a soft, spiced bar that’s moist, tender, and wildly comforting. The crumb is eminently tender thanks to a balance of all-purpose flour and vegetable oil, while warming layers of cinnamon team up with a hint of baking powder and baking soda for the perfect springy lift. Every bite is a gentle hug, and that deep, burnt-orange hue speaks volumes about the rich pumpkin flavor at its core. As the bars bake, gentle spice notes swirl through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around and anticipate the moment you pull the pan from the oven.
Once the bars have cooled, the real magic happens: a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting. I love the creamy tang of softened cream cheese blending seamlessly with velvety butter and just the right amount of powdered sugar. A final whisper of vanilla brings everything full circle. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or craving a simple sweet pick-me-up after dinner, these bars deliver on every front. They’re beginner-friendly, requiring just 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes in the oven, then a brief rest while you whip together a dreamy frosting. With 200 calories per bar (based on 24 squares), they strike the ideal balance of indulgent and approachable. Trust me, once you taste these beauties topped with that fluffy frosting, you’ll reach for the recipe time and time again.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN OLD FASHIONED PUMPKIN BARS
Before we dive into step-by-step instructions, let’s meet the stars of this recipe. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating those perfectly tender bars and that dreamy cream cheese frosting.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and ensures the bars are tender without being dense.
- Baking powder: Adds gentle lift for a light, airy crumb in every bite.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the batter with classic warm spice and that unmistakable fall flavor.
- Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give the bars just the right rise and texture.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and heightens all the pumpkin spice notes.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to a moist, cohesive crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars and helps create that pale, frothy batter once beaten with eggs.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bars delightfully moist, ensuring they stay soft even days after baking.
- Pumpkin puree: The hero ingredient, lending vibrant color, rich pumpkin flavor, and natural moisture.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor profile with subtle floral and sweet notes.
- Cream cheese: The base of the frosting, offering creamy tanginess and silky texture.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting, while softening the tang of cream cheese.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting, creating that light, fluffy topping.
HOW TO MAKE OLD FASHIONED PUMPKIN BARS
Now that our ingredients are sourced and ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to create these moist, spiced bars crowned with creamy frosting. Follow each step carefully to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal once the bars are baked.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together thoroughly so every spice and leavening agent is evenly distributed. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer. Continue until the mixture is pale, frothy, and slightly increased in volume—about 2 minutes of steady mixing.
4. Add the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the beaten egg mixture. Mix on low speed until the batter is smooth and there are no streaks of pumpkin or oil.
5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir gently and fold until just combined—be careful not to overmix, which can make the bars tough.
6. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, then use a spatula to spread it in an even layer, making sure the corners are filled.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
8. For the cream cheese frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping the bowl as needed.
9. Add the vanilla extract, then slowly sift in the powdered sugar. Beat on medium speed until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
10. Once the bars have cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or knife, making sure to seal the edges.
11. Cut the frosted bars into 24 equal squares and serve with a smile.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR OLD FASHIONED PUMPKIN BARS
When it comes to presenting these bars, a little thought goes a long way toward creating a memorable dessert moment. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving ideas will elevate every square.
- Whipped cream dollop: Top each bar with a generous spoonful of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon for a classic autumn finish.
- Spiced latte pairing: Serve alongside a warm chai latte or pumpkin spice coffee—the combination of creamy bar and aromatic drink is pure bliss.
- Chopped nuts garnish: Sprinkle roughly chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting for delightful crunch and an earthy contrast to the sweet cream cheese layer.
- Ice cream accompaniment: Plate a bar with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or maple walnut gelato for an indulgent dessert that feels decadent yet harmonious.
HOW TO STORE OLD FASHIONED PUMPKIN BARS
Proper storage ensures these bars stay fresh, flavorful, and ready for snacking whenever the craving hits. Follow these storage methods to maintain moisture and protect the delicate frosting.
Storing leftover pumpkin bars is a breeze, but a few simple tips will keep that frosting perfectly creamy and the cake layer tender. Always use an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and to guard against absorbing other refrigerator aromas. If you need to stack bars, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking or smudged frosting. These bars can last up to five days in the fridge without losing their signature texture.
- Refrigeration: Store frosted bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep them on a middle shelf away from strong-smelling foods.
- Freezing (unfrosted): Freeze the unfrosted bars, wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
- Room temperature: For short-term storage (1–2 days), keep unfrosted bars in an airtight box at cool room temperature; add frosting just before serving.
- Layered protection: If stacking frosted bars in a container, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to keep the frosting pristine.
CONCLUSION
Bringing these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars to life is a joyous journey from whisking the dry spices to spreading that dreamy cream cheese frosting over the gently spiced cake. We’ve covered everything from the pivotal role of all-purpose flour and cinnamon to the step-by-step technique for achieving a tender crumb and a fluffy topping. With just 20 minutes of hands-on preparation, 30 minutes of baking, and a brief resting period, you’ll have 24 bars that boast 200 calories each—perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or savoring one cozy square at a time on a crisp evening. Whether you’re a beginner baker or someone who loves seasonal treats, this recipe keeps it wonderfully simple while delivering maximum fall flavor.
Feel free to print this article and save it in your favorite recipe binder for easy reference. You’ll find a handy FAQ below to address any lingering questions about ingredient substitutions, serving tips, or storage quirks. If you give these bars a try—or if you have any feedback, questions, or recipe twists of your own—drop a comment. I’m always excited to hear how these rustic, creamy delights come together in your kitchen and to chat about all things pumpkin!
Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars
Description
Soft, spiced, and irresistibly moist, these pumpkin bars are the perfect treat for autumn. Each bite is enhanced by a luscious cream cheese frosting, making them a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together and set aside.
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In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and frothy. This should take about 2 minutes using a hand mixer.
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Add the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
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For the cream cheese frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
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Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar slowly, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
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Once the bars have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
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Cut into squares and serve.
Note
- Pumpkin bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of ground nutmeg on top of the frosting.
- These bars can be frozen (without frosting) for up to 3 months; thaw and frost before serving.
- Consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture.
