These pumpkin bars are traditional pumpkin bars that are honestly more cake-like than dense bars. Still, they are moist and delicious—we love them!

Pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting have become a classic fall treat. In my family, we always look forward to the first batch of these pumpkin desserts each fall. They celebrate everything awesome about autumn and also are a big sign that the holiday season is just around the corner.

These soft bars topped with luscious cream cheese are hard to resist with their warm autumn spices complementing the smooth, slightly tangy frosting. One bite is like wrapping up in a cozy cardigan on a chilly autumn day.

It may go without saying they’re a perfect treat to enjoy for a sweet breakfast treat before heading out to your local pumpkin patch. Or pack them as a snack for the road!

What to serve with pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting?

Pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting can be served as a dessert or all by themselves. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon snack.

For after-dinner dessert, they go especially well with savory meats like pork loin, a steak or baked chicken. When it’s chilly outside, these may be the ultimate sweet treat for following a steamy bowl of rich, classic beef chili or roasted butternut squash soup.

Want to go big on pumpkin flavors? Check out this sweet and savory pumpkin chili recipe. It’s another of my fall favorites to make for family and friends.

When it comes to simple accompaniments, you can serve these bars alongside fresh fruit like apples or pears, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A perfect seasonal pairing for a decadent dessert dish? Pair one of these cream cheese pumpkin bars with these baked apples and a swirl of cool whipped cream.

Ingredients needed to make this recipe for pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting

Here are the ingredients you must gather to make and bake these delicious pumpkin treats.

All-Purpose Flour: Gives the bars structure.
Baking Powder: Helps the bars rise just enough for a cake-like texture.
Baking Soda: Works with the baking powder to create a light texture.
Salt: Balances the sweetness of the bars and enhances the flavors.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Pumpkin Pie Spice: This pumpkin spice blend is just about all of the fall flavors including ground gloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture to the bars.
Granulated Sugar: This basic white sugar weetens the bars.
Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil: Makes the bars moist and tender.
Pumpkin Puree: Adds natural pumpkin flavor, moisture, and a beautiful orange color to the bars.
Maple Syrup: Brings natural sweetness and enhances the pumpkin flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Adds complexity to the flavor.
Ground Cinnamon: Optional for dusting to the finished bars, which adds a touch more spice for flavor and most of all, presentation.
Butter: Gives the frosting a creamy, rich base.
Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy taste and smooth, creamy texture to the frosting base.
Powdered Sugar: Confectioners’ sugar sweetens the frosting.
Vanilla: Enhances the flavor of the frosting with a touch of warmth and aroma.

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting ingredients

Pumpkin Bars Cream Cheese Frosting ingredients

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls
Stand mixer or hand mixer
Rimmed 12 x 17 baking pan

Frequently asked questions about pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting

Whenever I make and share these treats, people ask similar questions, which I have answered here. If you have a question you do not see covered, ask in the comments. I will be happy to respond as soon as I can!

How do I thicken my cream cheese frosting?

To thicken cream cheese frosting, you can add more powdered sugar a little at a time, or chill the frosting in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before using it.

Can you eat cream cheese left out overnight?

No, it is not safe to eat cream cheese left out overnight. It should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent bacteria growth, and so it’s best you do the same with these bars.

Can pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container. They will keep well that way for up to two months. Let them thaw completely to room temperature before serving.

How to store pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting?

Store pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For the best taste and texture, let them come to room temperature before serving.

More Grandma-Approved Recipes To Try

If you love these pumpkin bars, I bet you’ll enjoy these other fall-favorite recipes, too. They’re all delicious and have grandma’s stamp of approval!