Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd

Soft, spiced, and slathered in rich cream cheese frosting, Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd are the ultimate fall dessert. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or any time you need a tray full of cozy. This doubled recipe means more to love and fewer leftovers, we promise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, inviting flavor that everyone loves.
• Versatile Presentation: Dress them up with sprinkles or candies for festive occasions or keep it simple for everyday treats.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy get-together, these bars are sure to delight your guests.
• Large Batch: With 48 servings, this recipe is perfect for serving a big crowd without the stress of running out.

Tools and Preparation

Preparation is key when making Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd. Having the right tools will make your baking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet or two 9×13-inch pans

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This allows ample space for combining all of your ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer: It saves time and energy when creaming butter and sugar or beating frosting until smooth.
• Baking sheet or pans: Using the right size ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect texture in your bars.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Bars

• 2 (15 oz) cans pumpkin purée
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cups white sugar
• 2 cups butter, softened
• 8 large eggs
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 10 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

For Decoration

• Ground cinnamon
• Fall-colored sprinkles
• Mini pumpkin candies

How to Make Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large sheet pan or two 9×13-inch pans to ensure easy removal later on.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition.
3. Mix in the pumpkin purée until combined.

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
2. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well incorporated.

Step 3: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pans:
1. Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes.
2. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
3. Allow cooling completely before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In another mixing bowl:
1. Beat together cream cheese, softened butter, pure vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Step 5: Frost & Decorate

Once cooled:
1. Spread frosting over the top of each bar evenly using a rubber spatula.
2. Sprinkle ground cinnamon along with colorful fall sprinkles or mini pumpkin candies as desired to add festive flair.

With these steps complete, you’ll have delicious Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd ready to impress! Enjoy sharing this delightful treat!

How to Serve Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd

Frosted pumpkin bars are versatile and can be served in various ways to delight your guests. Whether it’s a cozy gathering or a large celebration, these bars are sure to impress with their rich flavors and festive appearance.

Individual Portions

• Serve each bar cut into squares on individual dessert plates for easy handling.
• Top each portion with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Party Platter

• Arrange the frosted bars on a large platter, decorating with fall-themed decorations like mini pumpkins or leaves.
• Include a small sign indicating that they are pumpkin bars to entice guests.

Dessert Table Display

• Create a dedicated dessert table featuring the pumpkin bars alongside other seasonal treats.
• Use cake stands of varying heights to give visual interest and draw attention to the frosted pumpkin bars.

With Coffee or Tea

• Offer these bars alongside coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
• Consider serving flavored coffees or herbal teas that complement the spices in the pumpkin bars.

How to Perfect Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd

Making frosted pumpkin bars is simple, but there are ways to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Here are some tips for success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the baking powder and spices, are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the bars tender and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and makes it easier to spread evenly.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even drizzle caramel sauce over the frosted surface for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd

Pairing side dishes with your frosted pumpkin bars can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm beverage that echoes the spices in the pumpkin bars and adds seasonal flair.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   These provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the dessert while maintaining a fall theme.
3. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the frosted bars, offering freshness between bites.
4. Chocolate Chip Cookies
   Classic cookies that appeal to everyone, providing another sweet option alongside your pumpkin treats.
5. Butternut Squash Soup
   A creamy soup adds warmth and complements the autumnal flavors of pumpkin while being seasonally appropriate.
6. Cheese Platter
   An assortment of cheeses can provide savory elements that contrast nicely with sweet desserts, making it an appealing addition.
7. Caramel Popcorn
   Sweet and crunchy popcorn offers a fun snack that pairs well with dessert without competing against it.
8. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit mix can cleanse the palate after indulging in rich pumpkin bars, making it an ideal side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when preparing Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd. Here are some common mistakes and tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the bars to cool completely before frosting is crucial. Frosting warm bars can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to avoid dense or overly dry bars.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Combine just until ingredients are mixed; lumps are okay.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and affect the texture of your pumpkin bars.
• Using Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Purée: Fresh pumpkin has different moisture content than canned pumpkin purée, which can alter the recipe’s outcome. Stick with canned for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Warm individual pieces on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd.

Can I use fresh pumpkin purée instead of canned?

Using fresh pumpkin purée can change the moisture content and texture of the bars. It’s best to stick with canned pumpkin purée for this recipe.

How do I decorate my Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd?

You can top them with ground cinnamon, colorful sprinkles, or mini pumpkin candies to make them festive and appealing.

Can I make these pumpkin bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup in recipes.

What should I serve with Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd?

These bars pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even vanilla ice cream as a delightful dessert option.

How long does it take to make Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd?

The total time is approximately 50 minutes, including preparation and baking time.

Final Thoughts

Frosted Pumpkin Bars for a Crowd are an irresistible fall treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Their soft texture, combined with creamy frosting, makes them hard to resist. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or changing the spices—your creativity will make them uniquely yours!