Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall, you’ve just found it! These Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. The moment you take a bite, you’ll feel wrapped in a warm blanket of spiced goodness. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a sweet treat for a busy weeknight, these bars fit any occasion perfectly.

What makes this recipe extra special is how wonderfully they transport. You can easily pack them up to share with friends or enjoy them at home with loved ones. Plus, the combination of pumpkin and brown sugar frosting is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these bars in no time.
• Crowd-pleaser: The delightful blend of pumpkin spice and sweet frosting will win over both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for sharing: They’re easy to cut into squares, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake them a day or two in advance so they’re ready when you need them!
• Deliciously comforting: The warm spices will fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma that screams autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment and make it your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For a sweeter twist, fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips before baking.
• Try different spices: Swap out the spices for your favorites—pumpkin pie spice would work beautifully too!
• Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out soft and fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and light brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Adding the egg and vanilla extract next will help bind everything together while adding flavor. After that, mix in the pumpkin puree until well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, spices, baking soda, and salt—then gently fold them into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Bake Your Bars

Pour your batter into a greased baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 4: Make the Frosting

While your bars are cooling down, prepare the brown sugar frosting. Cream together more unsalted butter with brown sugar, then mix in cinnamon and salt. Gradually add powdered sugar along with milk until smooth and spreadable. Adjust with more milk if needed!

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Once your pumpkin bars have cooled completely, generously spread the frosting on top. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired. Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats!

These Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are sure to become a favorite in your household!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

Making these delicious Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting is a breeze if you follow a few simple tips!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps them blend together more smoothly, resulting in a lighter texture for the bars.
• Sift your flour and powdered sugar – Sifting removes lumps and ensures an even distribution of dry ingredients, leading to a fluffier bar and a smoother frosting.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to avoid tough bars. Overmixing can lead to gluten development, making the bars denser than desired.
• Let them cool completely before frosting – Frosting warm bars can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Allow the bars to cool completely for the best results.
• Store them properly – Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for extended freshness. This keeps them soft and delicious for days!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

Serving these pumpkin bars can be as creative as you like! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream can add a light, airy touch that complements the rich frosting.
• Cinnamon sprinkle – Dust a little ground cinnamon over the top just before serving for an extra hint of spice and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Apple cider – The crispness of apple cider pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Vanilla ice cream (dairy-free if needed) – A scoop of ice cream adds creaminess that balances out the pumpkin spice perfectly.
• Roasted fall vegetables – Serve alongside roasted veggies like butternut squash or sweet potatoes to create a heartier meal experience.
• Salad with maple dressing – A light salad with maple vinaigrette adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness of the dessert, making it a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy your Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting, whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them alone with a warm cup of coffee!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are not only delightful but also perfect for meal prep! They’re great for making in advance to enjoy throughout the week or to share at gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place a bar on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until warm.
• Enjoy them warm for that fresh-baked taste!

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

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

Your Pumpkin Bars are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The edges should also be slightly pulling away from the pan.

Can I substitute the butter in Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine as a substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of milk in the frosting?

For a dairy-free alternative, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk of your choice.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting as much as I do! They truly capture the essence of fall and are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these bars will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Happy baking!