Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert to bring warmth to your home this fall, let me introduce you to my beloved Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting. These bars are soft, slightly cakey, and bursting with the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices. Topped with a rich brown sugar frosting, they are sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family celebration, these bars are easy to whip up and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

What makes these Pumpkin Bars so special is the combination of flavors and textures. The moist pumpkin base complements the sweet and slightly crunchy frosting beautifully. Plus, they are simple enough that even beginner bakers can master them without any fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These bars come together in just 50 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute cravings or surprises.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet taste of pumpkin and the delightful frosting on top.
• Versatile: Great for fall potlucks, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or cozy nights at home!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake these bars in advance and store them for up to a week. They taste even better after a day in the fridge!
• Comforting Flavors: The warm spices evoke all the best feelings of autumn—just one bite will have you feeling right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Gather these goodies, and let’s get baking!

For the Pumpkin Bars

• 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup (133 grams) packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg (at cool room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (212 grams) pumpkin puree
• 1 1/2 cups (190 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Brown Sugar Frosting

• 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter (at cool room temperature)
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 1/2 cups (188 grams) powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk (plus more if needed)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your taste! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch to the bars.
• Spice It Up: Boost the flavor by adding more spices like cloves or allspice for an extra kick.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate on top can take these bars to another level of sweetness.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap out the brown sugar frosting for a tangy cream cheese frosting for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step ensures that your delicious bars won’t stick when it’s time to serve!

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Bar Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and light brown sugar until smooth. This process helps incorporate air into your batter, giving it that lovely soft texture. Add in the egg and vanilla extract next; mix well until combined. Fold in the pumpkin puree gently until everything is incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately prevents clumping and ensures even distribution throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet mixture while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want those pumpkin bars soft and tender! Once combined, pour this luscious batter into your prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Bake Time!

Bake your pumpkin bars in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell wafting from your kitchen will be divine—resist the urge to dive in right away!

Step 6: Make That Frosting

While your bars are cooling down, prepare the brown sugar frosting. In a mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and light brown sugar until fluffy. Add ground cinnamon and salt before gradually incorporating powdered sugar. Finally, mix in vanilla extract and milk until you achieve that perfect spreadable consistency.

Step 7: Frost & Enjoy!

Once your pumpkin bars have cooled completely in their pan, generously spread on that delightful frosting. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired—and there you have it! Delicious Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

Making these Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting can be a breeze if you keep a few helpful tips in mind!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the butter and egg mix together smoothly, creating a light and fluffy batter that bakes evenly.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the soft, tender treat we want.
• Sift your powdered sugar: Sifting removes lumps and ensures a smooth frosting that spreads beautifully over your pumpkin bars.
• Adjust the milk in frosting as needed: Start with 1 tablespoon of milk; add more gradually to achieve your desired consistency. A thicker frosting holds its shape, while a thinner one is easier to spread.
• Cool completely before frosting: Letting your bars cool completely prevents the frosting from melting into the warm cake, keeping it beautifully thick and delicious.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

These delightful pumpkin bars are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just treating yourself, here are some presentation ideas to really make them shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon creates an inviting aroma and enhances the overall fall vibe.
• Whipped coconut cream: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve alongside a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free delight.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: This seasonal beverage pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors and adds warmth to your serving table.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your bars offers a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Roasted butternut squash soup: The creamy warmth of this soup complements the spices in your dessert beautifully, making for a comforting meal experience.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with apples, cranberries, and toasted nuts provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of pumpkin bars.

Now that you have all the tips on how to make and serve these luscious Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Enjoy every bite of this seasonal delight!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making them a great option for busy schedules or last-minute gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They will stay good at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual servings before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container!

Reheating

• To enjoy the bars warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired number of bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a single bar for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making these delicious bars, you’re not alone!

Can I make Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 swap.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Bars are done baking?

Your Pumpkin Bars are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time!

Can I use canned pumpkin puree in my Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly! Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.

What should I serve with my Pumpkin Bars?

These bars are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting as much as I do! They’re not just a dessert; they’re a warm embrace during those cozy fall days. Whether you’re sharing them at gatherings or savoring them at home, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!