5 Moist and Spiced Pumpkin Bars Everyone Will Love
Fall is here, and that means it’s time for all things pumpkin! If you’re looking for a treat that’s packed with cozy spices, has a soft and moist texture, and will have everyone coming back for seconds, pumpkin bars are the answer. These 5 pumpkin bar recipes are perfect for fall gatherings, family treats, or just a sweet snack to enjoy with a warm beverage.
1. Classic Pumpkin Spice Bars
Nothing beats a classic! These pumpkin spice bars are soft, fluffy, and packed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Combine the dry ingredients and gradually add them to the wet mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of sweetness, add a vanilla glaze or cream cheese frosting once the bars have cooled!
2. Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Swirl
For a decadent twist, these pumpkin bars include a rich cream cheese swirl that adds flavor and an elegant design.
Ingredients:
- Pumpkin Layer: Same ingredients as the Classic Pumpkin Spice Bars.
- Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the pumpkin layer as outlined in the first recipe.
- For the cream cheese swirl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin batter into the pan and drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top. Use a knife to swirl the two together.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the oven! Swirled bars tend to bake quicker, so check around the 20-minute mark to avoid over-baking.
3. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bars with Almond Flour
These gluten-free pumpkin bars are just as moist and flavorful as traditional recipes, making them a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut flour
- 3/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl until smooth.
- Pour into a lined 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Pro Tip: Using almond and coconut flour adds a light nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spices. You can even add chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
4. Pumpkin Oat Bars with Crumble Topping
For a wholesome treat, these pumpkin oat bars have a buttery crumble topping that adds texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
- Pumpkin Layer:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Oat Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the pumpkin layer by mixing all ingredients until smooth.
- For the crumble topping, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Pour pumpkin layer into a greased 8×8-inch pan, sprinkle the crumble on top, and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Pro Tip: These bars taste even better after sitting in the fridge overnight. The crumble topping stays crisp while the pumpkin layer becomes more flavorful.
5. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars
For those who love a touch of chocolate, these pumpkin bars feature chocolate chips throughout, creating a rich and gooey bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, oil, and egg in a bowl.
- Combine the dry ingredients separately, then add them to the wet mixture.
- Fold in chocolate chips and pour into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes.
Pro Tip: Serve warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience as the chocolate is still gooey and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re sticking to the classics or going for something a bit more creative, these pumpkin bars are a delicious way to celebrate fall. Remember to store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them moist and fresh.