Hey there, friends! I’ve gotta tell ya, there’s nothing quite like the cozy vibe of fall baking, and my go-to treat when the leaves start turning is a batch of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.
I stumbled upon this recipe years ago while flipping through my grandma’s tattered recipe binder, and let me just say, it’s been a game-changer ever since. My family goes absolutely nuts for these bars, and I can’t help but whip up a tray of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting every chance I get.
I’ll never forget the first time I made these beauties. I was a nervous wreck trying to impress my in-laws, and somehow, I managed to turn out a batch of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting that had everyone begging for seconds. It’s become my little secret weapon for family gatherings, and I’m so excited to share it with y’all today!
Honestly, there’s something magical about the smell of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into the world of homemade desserts, I promise these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting will steal your heart. So, let’s dive in and get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’ve gotta be honest, I’ve made a lot of pumpkin desserts in my day, but these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are hands-down my favorite. There’s just something about the perfect balance of moist, spiced pumpkin cake paired with that tangy, sweet cream cheese frosting that gets me every time.
In my kitchen, these bars are a fall staple because they’re easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.
Plus, they’re versatile as heck! Whether I’m cutting them into neat squares for a potluck or sneaking a piece straight from the pan (don’t judge!), Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting never disappoint. I’ve found they’re just as good for a casual family dessert as they are for a fancy holiday spread. Trust me, you’ll be hooked after one bite!
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s chat about what you’ll need to make these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. I’m a bit of a stickler for quality ingredients, so I’ll share my go-to brands and preferences where I can. These bars are pretty forgiving, though, so don’t stress if you need to swap something out.
For the Pumpkin Bars
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled for accuracy
- 1 teaspoon baking powder, to give ‘em a little lift
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, for that perfect texture
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, just a pinch to balance the sweet
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice, or mix your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, I usually go for pure cane sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed tight for extra moisture
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil, canola works great too
- 4 large eggs, at room temp for a smoother batter
- 1 1/2 cups (340g) canned pumpkin puree, not pie filling—Libby’s is my pick
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened to room temp—Philadelphia is my ride-or-die
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, also softened for easy mixing
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted to avoid lumps
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure for the best flavor
- Pinch of salt, to cut through the sweetness
I’ve been making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting for so long, I’ve got my ingredient game down pat. But if you’re out of something, don’t sweat it—I’ve got variations coming up! Honestly, just grabbing these basics will get you well on your way to a pan of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting that’ll knock your socks off.
Oh, and pro tip: double-check your pumpkin puree isn’t pie filling, or you’ll end up with a mess!
Variations
Now, I’m all about keeping things classic, but sometimes you’ve gotta mix it up with these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Over the years, I’ve played around with this recipe more times than I can count, and I’ve landed on some variations that are just too good not to share. Whether you’ve got dietary needs or just wanna switch up the vibe, I’ve got you covered.
Here are some tweaks I’ve tried (and loved):
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a little extra texture. I tried this once for a Thanksgiving dessert, and my uncle wouldn’t stop raving!
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Mix in 3/4 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. My kids always ask for this version of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.
- Spiced Up: Bump up the spice with an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of ginger for warmth.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose. I’ve done this for a friend, and it worked like a charm.
- Maple Frosting: Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to the cream cheese frosting for a cozy twist.
- Less Sugar: Cut the granulated sugar to 3/4 cup if you’re watching sweets. It’s still delish, in my experience.
- Coconut Flair: Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded coconut on top of the frosting for a tropical vibe.
Honestly, experimenting with Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is half the fun! I’ve botched a few batches in my day (like the time I overdid the ginger—yikes!), but these variations are tried and true. So go ahead, make it your own, and let me know what you come up with for your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting!
Servings and Timing
Let’s talk logistics for whipping up a batch of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. In my experience, this recipe comes together pretty quick, especially if you’ve got all your ingredients lined up. Here’s how the timing usually shakes out for me when I’m baking these beauties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: About 50 minutes, plus cooling
- Servings: 24 bars, depending on how big you cut ‘em
I’ve made Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting for everything from small family snacks to big holiday bashes, and this yield is just right. If you’re feeding a crowd, you can easily double it—just use a larger pan. You’ll be amazed how fast these disappear!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty of making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. I’ve been baking these for years, so I’ve got some little tricks up my sleeve to make the process smooth as butter. Follow along, and I’ll walk you through every step like we’re in the kitchen together.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First things first, crank your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. I like to line mine with parchment paper too, leaving a bit of overhang to lift the bars out later—total game-changer. Trust me, it saves a ton of hassle when you’re slicing up these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Stuff
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. I’ve learned to sift this mix if my flour looks clumpy—nothing ruins a batch like uneven spice! Set it aside for now; we’ll come back to it.
Step 3: Whip Up the Wet Ingredients
In a big ol’ bowl, beat the sugars and oil with a hand mixer until they’re nice and combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in the pumpkin puree. I’ve found that room-temp eggs blend way better, so pull ‘em out early if you can.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Slowly add the dry mix to the wet, stirring just until it’s blended—don’t overmix, or you’ll get tough bars. Pour the batter into your pan and smooth it out. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely before frosting your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Step 5: Frost Like a Pro
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Spread it over the cooled bars with a spatula. I like to get a little fancy with some swirls (hey, presentation matters!), but do whatever floats your boat for these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once frosted, cut into 24 squares—or bigger if you’re feeling generous. I usually pop the pan in the fridge for 30 minutes first to make cutting cleaner. And there ya have it, a tray of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting ready to wow everyone!
Nutritional Information
I’m not gonna lie, Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting aren’t exactly health food, but they’re worth every indulgent bite in my book. I’ve crunched the numbers for you based on a batch of 24 bars, so you can keep track if you’re counting calories. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sodium: 180mg
I think it’s all about balance—enjoy a piece of these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting and maybe skip the second helping (if you can resist!). If you’re looking to lighten ‘em up, I’ve got some ideas coming up next.
Healthier Alternatives
Okay, let’s be real—I love these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting just as they are, full of buttery, sugary goodness. But sometimes, I’m watching my waistline or baking for someone with dietary needs, so I’ve swapped things out over the years. Here are a few healthier twists I’ve tried that still deliver on flavor.
- Oil Swap: Replace half the oil with unsweetened applesauce for less fat. It keeps the bars moist too!
- Sugar Cut: Use 3/4 cup total sugar instead of the full amount—half granulated, half brown.
- Light Frosting: Swap half the cream cheese for Greek yogurt in the frosting to cut calories.
- Whole Wheat: Sub half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
I’ve gotta say, these tweaks still make for some darn good Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. They’re not quite as decadent, but when I’m trying to behave, they do the trick. Give ‘em a shot if you’re after a lighter take on Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting!
Serving Suggestions
I’ve served Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting in all sorts of ways, and honestly, there’s no wrong answer. These bars are so versatile, they fit right into any occasion. Here are a few of my fave ways to dish ‘em up that always get smiles at my table.
- Coffee Break: Pair with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate fall afternoon pick-me-up.
- Dessert Table: Cut into small squares and set out at a holiday buffet—they disappear fast!
- Kid-Friendly Snack: Serve with a glass of milk for an after-school treat.
- Fancy Touch: Dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a pretty finish.
I just adore how Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any moment, whether it’s a casual hangout or a big celebration. At my last family reunion, they were the star of the show. How do you plan to serve your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Look, I’ve made my fair share of baking blunders while perfecting Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, so I’m spilling the tea on what to watch out for. Trust me on this one—I’ve learned the hard way! Avoid these pitfalls, and your bars will turn out amazing.
- Overbaking: Check early at 30 minutes; overbaking makes them dry. I’ve ruined a batch by leaving ‘em in too long.
- Wrong Pumpkin: Don’t grab pumpkin pie filling by mistake—it’s got extra sugar and spices.
- Skipping Cooling: Frost too soon, and it’ll melt into a mess. Been there, done that!
- Overmixing Batter: Mix just until combined, or you’ll get dense Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.
I’ve flubbed these steps before, but once you nail ‘em, your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting will be perfection. Don’t worry if you mess up—baking’s all about trial and error sometimes!
Storing Tips
I’ve found that Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting keep pretty well if you store ‘em right, which is great ‘cause I always make extra. Here’s how I keep mine fresh so they taste just as good on day three as day one. Give these a try!
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days—frosting stays best this way.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before frosting.
- Room Temp: Only leave out for a few hours if frosted, due to the cream cheese.
In my experience, these storing hacks make enjoying Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting a breeze all week long!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gotten tons of questions over the years about baking Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, so I’m tackling the most common ones here. Let’s clear up any confusion so you can bake with confidence!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can! I often bake the bars a day or two ahead and store ‘em in the fridge. Just frost closer to serving for the freshest Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Sure thing, though it’s more work. Roast and puree your pumpkin, but make sure to drain excess liquid so your bars aren’t soggy.
Do I have to refrigerate them?
Yup, because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep ‘em chilled. They’ll last longer too!
Can I double the recipe?
Totally! Use a larger pan, like a 10×15, and add a few minutes to the baking time. I’ve done this for parties with no issues.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
No worries—mix 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ginger, and a pinch of cloves. Works like a charm!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour. I’ve tried it, and it’s still delish.
How do I know when they’re done?
Stick a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, you’re good to go. Don’t overthink it!
Can I freeze the frosting?
You bet! Freeze it separately, then thaw and whip it up before spreading on your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it, folks—everything you need to whip up a batch of Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting that’ll make your kitchen the coziest spot in town. I’ve poured my heart into this recipe, and I can’t wait for you to try it and make some sweet memories of your own. So grab that can of pumpkin, preheat your oven, and dive into baking these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting—you won’t regret it! Drop a comment if you’ve got questions or just wanna share how they turned out.
Happy baking!
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s truly one of my favorites, and I’m confident you’ll love it too. Remember to follow the steps carefully for the best results. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations and make this recipe your own.
Happy cooking!