These super-moist pumpkin bars topped with a thick layer of frosting are the perfect fall dessert.
Growing up, my mom had a friend who would make frosted pumpkin bars every fall. Over the years, I’ve tried a variety of recipes to attempt to replicate this delicious childhood treat.
This autumn, we’ve got a pumpkin recipe mash-up going on. We experimented and blended two recipes together. The results were fan-freaking-tastic. My husband swore that the bars actually tasted better with each day in the fridge. I quietly enjoy a bar each morning after the kids headed off to school.
These frosted pumpkin bars are perfect with a cup of hot coffee on a cold fall day.
Here’s the printable recipe…
- Getting Started:
- 1 c vegetable oil
- 4 eggs
- 1 2/3 c sugar
- 2 c flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder
- (2) 15 oz. cans of pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie mix)
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- Frosting – 8 oz softened cream cheese
- 1/2 c butter
- 2 Tbsp cream or milk
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla
- 4 c powdered sugar
- Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Mix together the oil, eggs, and sugar. Then add the baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin and cinnamon.
- Pour mixture into greased 9×13 pan.
- Bake at 350 for about 40-45 minutes. Enjoy the lovely aroma!
- Wait until completely cool, then frost.
- Frosting Instructions: Mix until smooth and spread over bars.
- Decorating: Add a touch of cinnamon, pecans, or even candy corn to give the recipe more pizazz.
My recipe mash-up inspiration:
I started my search for a new frosted pumpkin bar recipe on AllRecipes.com. It is an amazing resource; ratings help you find family-approved recipes quickly.
Paul’s Pumpkin Bar Recipe
Source: AllRecipe.com
What I loved about it?
This was one of the top-rated frosted pumpkin bars recipes on the site. Plus, it had less sugar than most of the other recipes I found!
Jenn’s Pumpkin Bar Recipe
Source: Mandeegrant.com *I found this recipe via Pinterest and the blog 30 Days of Handmade.
What I love about it?
It used TWICE as much canned pumpkin as most recipes. I was looking for something moist. Bingo!
Additional notes:
- One of my daughters didn’t like the thickness of the bars. If you are looking for a thinner bar, check out the two recipes above for a thinner cookie sheet baking option.
- We ate a few “sample bars” right after the pumpkin bars were frosted and they were yummy. However, they were even more delicious after being refrigerated. This is perfect dessert recipe for a family gathering, a potluck, or even Thanksgiving. I highly recommend you chill the bars before serving!
Looking for additional inspiration?
Follow my Creative Family Kitchen Pinterest board for ongoing recipe ideas!
SEE MORE FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECIPES
If you’re looking for unique ways to celebrate autumn with your family, be sure to check out our Fall Fun Pinterest board for recipes and activities.
Happy baking!
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