These pumpkin bars are the perfect fall treat with a creamy, indulgent topping! Enjoy a slice of autumn in every bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you adore the flavors of fall, these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese are sure to become your new favorite dessert. The combination of warm spices, rich pumpkin puree, and a luscious cream cheese swirl creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving something sweet, these bars are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. They are not only visually appealing with their beautiful cream cheese design but also incredibly delicious, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, fall brings with it a bounty of flavors that warm the soul. One of the quintessential autumn ingredients is pumpkin, and what better way to celebrate this seasonal star than with a batch of Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese? These bars are a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie, offering a moist, spiced cake topped with a creamy, tangy swirl of cream cheese. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, these bars are sure to impress with their rich flavors and inviting aroma. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that captures the essence of fall in every bite!
Ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Bars:
- 4 eggs
- 1 2/3 cups sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 ¾ cups pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 16 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs, slightly beaten
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan by spraying it with non-stick spray. For added protection against sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper and spray the paper as well. Set the pan aside.
Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. This blend of dry ingredients will create a warm, aromatic base for your pumpkin bars. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until well combined and slightly frothy. Add the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, mixing until everything is smoothly incorporated.
Step 4: Gradually stir in the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: For the cream cheese mixture, in a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Finally, gently fold in the slightly beaten eggs until just incorporated. Transfer this creamy mixture into a piping bag or a zip-lock bag, snip off the corner, and create diagonal lines over the pumpkin batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions:
These pumpkin bars are delightful on their own, but they can be elevated with a few simple serving suggestions. Consider dusting the bars with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert experience. For a festive touch, serve them with a side of spiced chai or hot apple cider.
Tips:
- Use Fresh Pumpkin: If you have access to fresh pumpkin, roasting and pureeing it can enhance the flavor of your bars. However, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly as well for convenience.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother mixture and better incorporation.
- Storage: These pumpkin bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well, making them perfect for make-ahead desserts.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cloves or allspice can add depth to the flavor.
- Cutting the Bars: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to avoid dragging the cream cheese swirl.
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 210mg
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of the fall season. With their moist, spiced pumpkin base and rich, creamy topping, they encapsulate the warmth and comfort of autumn. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy family dinner, or simply indulging in a personal treat, these bars are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a slice of fall bliss!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
- While you can use pumpkin pie filling, it contains added sugar and spices. For the best results, stick to plain pumpkin puree to control the flavor and sweetness.
- How do I know when the bars are done baking?
- The bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the bars.
- Can I make these bars ahead of time?
- Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, and they will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, canola oil, or even unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option.
- How should I store leftover pumpkin bars?
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.