Sheet Pan Libbys Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Welcome to this delightful recipe blog post featuring Sheet Pan Libbys Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. If you’re a fan of all things pumpkin and crave a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion, you’re in for a real treat with these pumpkin bars. The combination of moist pumpkin cake and creamy cream cheese frosting is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love IT?

There are countless reasons why you’ll fall in love with these Sheet Pan Libbys Pumpkin Bars. Here are a few highlights:

– The perfect balance of pumpkin flavor and sweetness

– Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd

– A wonderful dessert for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations

– The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy element that complements the pumpkin perfectly

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make these scrumptious pumpkin bars:

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 1 cup Libby’s pumpkin puree

– 2 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 2 cups powdered sugar

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 15×10-inch sheet pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared sheet pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. While the bars are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

8. Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.

Serving Suggestions:

These Sheet Pan Libbys Pumpkin Bars are delicious on their own, but you can take them to the next level by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions:

If you want to switch things up, you can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice to customize the taste to your liking.

Pro Tips for Success:

– Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

– Be careful not to overmix the batter to avoid a tough texture.

– Allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

– Store any leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section:

Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

A: Yes, you can substitute homemade pumpkin puree in this recipe. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Q: Can I freeze these pumpkin bars?

A: Yes, you can freeze these bars without the frosting. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and frost before serving.

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! These bars actually taste better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.

Q: How can I make these bars more festive for the holidays?

A: You can sprinkle some crushed pecans or drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting for a festive touch.

Q: Can I use a different type of frosting?

A: Of course! A maple cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla glaze would also complement these bars beautifully.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sheet Pan Libbys Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a must-try dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With the warm spices of fall and the creamy richness of the frosting, these bars are a true delight for the taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a cozy treat, these pumpkin bars are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your baking repertoire!