Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

If you’re looking for a delicious fall treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are one of my absolute favorites. The warm spices and creamy frosting create a cozy flavor that just screams autumn. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bars are sure to bring smiles.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love. Plus, they travel well, making them great for potlucks or bake sales.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, making this recipe perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the soft texture and sweet taste of these pumpkin bars.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: They store beautifully in the fridge, so you can prepare them ahead of time for busy days.
• Perfect for Fall Gatherings: With spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these bars capture the essence of fall in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to get started! You likely already have many of these items in your pantry, making this recipe both accessible and budget-friendly.

For the 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 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 these pumpkin bars is how flexible they can be. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients!

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Spice It Up: Increase the spice levels by adding more cinnamon or even a pinch of cloves for an extra kick.
• Frosting Swaps: If you’re feeling adventurous, try a cream cheese frosting instead of brown sugar frosting for a tangy twist.

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 step ensures that your bars bake evenly. A properly heated oven helps create that lovely golden crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and light brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract next, followed by the pumpkin puree. Mixing these ingredients well adds moisture and richness, which is so important in achieving that soft bar texture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your flour, spices, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can make your bars tough!

Step 4: Bake!

Pour your batter into a greased baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Watch closely towards the end; no one likes dry bars!

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While your bars cool, prepare the brown sugar frosting. Cream together the butter and light brown sugar until smooth. Add in cinnamon, salt, sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until you have a thick but spreadable consistency.

Step 6: Frost & Enjoy!

Once your pumpkin bars are completely cooled (this is crucial!), spread an even layer of frosting on top. Cut into squares and serve! These bars are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting as much as I do! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

Making the perfect pumpkin bars is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you nail them!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, egg, and other ingredients to room temperature ensures better mixing and a smoother batter, resulting in a more tender bar.

• Sift your powdered sugar: Sifting can prevent lumps in your frosting, making it easier to spread evenly on top of the pumpkin bars. A smooth frosting is key to that delightful texture contrast!

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep the bars light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to denser bars, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Let them cool completely before frosting: If you frost warm bars, the frosting will melt into a gooey mess rather than sitting nicely on top. Patience pays off with this treat!

• Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their moist texture while keeping them fresh.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

Presentation can elevate your pumpkin bars from tasty treats to show-stopping desserts! Here are some fun ways to present these seasonal delights.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and enhances the fall flavor profile.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of coconut cream provides a light and creamy contrast, making each bite even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: This comforting drink pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors, creating a cozy autumn atmosphere.
• Spiced chai tea: The warming spices in chai complement the pumpkin spice perfectly, making it a lovely pairing for an afternoon treat.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness mirrors the pumpkin’s flavor and adds heartiness to your dessert table.
• Green salad with vinaigrette: A refreshing salad balances the richness of the pumpkin bars while adding some crunch and freshness to your meal.

Enjoy showcasing these Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting at your next gathering! They’re sure to be a hit among family and friends as they savor each delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are perfect for meal prep! They can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while also making your baking efforts more efficient.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual portions before freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, let the bars thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• To warm them up, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds or until just warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful pumpkin bars!

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

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

What’s the best way to store Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting?

Store these delicious bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting?

Yes! You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or use coconut oil instead of butter. Just ensure that any substitutions maintain similar textures.

How can I make Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting healthier?

Consider using less sugar or substituting some of the flour with whole wheat flour. You can also add nuts or seeds for added nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake these wonderful Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting! They truly capture the essence of fall and are sure to bring joy whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!