Pumpkin Bars Brown Sugar Frosting

Moist, warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting — an irresistibly cozy fall treat perfect for any gathering.

This is a cherished recipe I love to bake every autumn because the aroma fills the house with warmth and comfort.

Ingredients

• For the Pumpkin Bars: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• For the Brown Sugar Frosting: 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter softened, 4 ounces cream cheese softened, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 4 tablespoons milk or cream

Instructions

Preheat oven:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Mix dry ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Mix wet ingredients:

In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.

Add pumpkin:

Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.

Combine batter:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Add nuts:

Fold in walnuts or pecans if using.

Pour batter:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Bake bars:

Bake for 30 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool bars:

Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.

Make frosting:

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Add sugars:

Gradually add the powdered sugar and brown sugar mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy.

Flavor frosting:

Mix in the vanilla extract.

Adjust consistency:

Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Frost bars:

Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.

Save

My family enjoys gathering around with these bars during chilly evenings, sharing stories and warmth.

Required Tools

9×13-inch baking pan, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Electric mixer or hand mixer, Spatula, Wire cooling rack, Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter cream cheese), tree nuts (if using walnuts or pecans). Always verify ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.

Nutritional Information

Calories 310, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 43 g, Protein 3 g per serving

Save

These pumpkin bars bring comfort and joy with every bite—perfect for sharing or enjoying solo!

Cooking Guide

→ What spices enhance the pumpkin bars?

Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves provide the warm, cozy spices that complement the pumpkin's natural sweetness.

→ Can I use nuts in these bars?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter for added crunch and flavor, or sprinkled on top after frosting.

→ How can I ensure the frosting doesn't melt?

Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before spreading the frosting to keep it from melting and ensure a smooth finish.

→ Is it possible to make the bars lighter?

Substituting half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce can reduce fat without compromising moisture.

→ What is the best way to store leftover bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness and flavor.