Easy Cake Mix Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: Your Ultimate Fall Dessert
These incredibly simple cake mix pumpkin bars, crowned with a rich and tangy homemade cream cheese frosting, are the quintessential pumpkin-spiced fall dessert. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee, they deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
The Easiest Pumpkin Bars Ever: A Fall Baking Dream!
As soon as the leaves start to change and a crispness fills the air, it’s officially time for pumpkin season! In our house, that heralds the arrival of all the wonderfully warm and comforting pumpkin spice flavored treats. While I often find myself whipping up cake mix pumpkin muffins and cake mix pumpkin bread, this year I wanted to try something slightly different but equally effortless: a delightful dessert bar.
That’s how these incredible cake mix pumpkin bars were born! They couldn’t be simpler to assemble, requiring minimal ingredients and prep time. The magic really happens when they’re generously topped with a velvety, simple homemade cream cheese frosting. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing fall treat but are short on time, this recipe is an absolute lifesaver. It delivers all the autumnal flavors you crave without the fuss of baking from scratch.
These bars are not just easy; they’re consistently moist, perfectly spiced, and boast a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The sweet and slightly tangy cream cheese frosting provides the perfect counterpoint to the rich pumpkin flavor, creating a harmonious balance that will have everyone asking for the recipe. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple combination of ingredients can produce such an extraordinary dessert!
Remarkably, you only need a handful of ingredients to create these delightful pumpkin bars – just 6 in total! The simplicity of the ingredient list makes this recipe not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, as most items are pantry staples or readily available at any grocery store during the fall season.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Pumpkin Bars
Let’s take a closer look at the key components that bring these magnificent pumpkin bars to life. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture, from the spiced cake base to the creamy topping.
- One box of spice cake mix: This is the secret weapon for ultimate convenience. A good quality spice cake mix already contains all the dry ingredients and warming spices you need, saving you time and ensuring a consistent, flavorful base for your bars. While a spice cake mix is ideal for that classic fall flavor, you can also experiment with a yellow cake mix and add your own pumpkin pie spice blend for a similar effect.
- One can of pumpkin puree: It’s absolutely critical to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin puree is 100% cooked pumpkin, offering a natural, earthy flavor and incredible moisture without added sugars or spices. Pumpkin pie filling, on the other hand, comes pre-sweetened and spiced, which would throw off the balance of this recipe. Always double-check the label!
- Cream cheese (for the frosting): Opt for full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature. This is essential for a smooth, lump-free frosting with that signature tangy richness. Lower-fat versions may result in a thinner, less stable frosting.
- Unsalted butter (for the frosting): Just like the cream cheese, the butter should be softened. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of your frosting. If you only have salted butter, reduce or omit any added salt in the frosting recipe if you were to add any.
- Powdered sugar (for the frosting): Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar is key to a smooth, airy frosting texture. Sifting it before adding to the wet ingredients can help prevent lumps, though a good mixer will usually take care of most of them.
- Vanilla extract (for the frosting): A dash of pure vanilla extract enhances all the flavors in the cream cheese frosting, adding a subtle warmth and aromatic depth that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
With these six simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a truly unforgettable fall dessert. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward nature, proving that you don’t need a pantry full of exotic items to bake something spectacular.
How to Make Cake Mix Pumpkin Bars: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these delightful pumpkin bars is a straightforward process, even for novice bakers. Follow these simple steps to ensure your bars turn out perfectly moist and flavorful, ready for their creamy frosting.
Baking the Pumpkin Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Batter. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire can of pumpkin puree with the box of spice cake mix. At first, the mixture will appear very thick and a bit dry, almost like a dough. Don’t be alarmed! Just keep stirring patiently. The pumpkin puree will gradually hydrate the cake mix, transforming it into a cohesive, thick batter. I’ve found that a sturdy rubber spatula or a strong wooden spoon works best for this part, as the batter is too dense for a whisk and can be quite taxing for an electric mixer at the initial stage.
Step 2: Bake to Perfection. Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the thick pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. This might require a little effort with your spatula, pushing and smoothing it into all corners. Once spread, place the dish in your preheated oven and bake the pumpkin bars for 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bars are ready. Avoid overbaking to maintain their moist texture.
Step 3: Cool Completely. Once baked, remove the pumpkin bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before even thinking about frosting them. This step is crucial! Attempting to frost warm bars will result in a melted, messy frosting disaster. While they are cooling, you can efficiently prepare your homemade cream cheese frosting, ensuring everything is ready at the right time.
Crafting the Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 4: Make the Frosting. In a separate bowl, using either a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy, with no lumps. This usually takes 2-3 minutes. Next, add the vanilla extract and mix until just combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about a cup at a time, mixing on low speed until each addition is incorporated, then increasing to medium speed until smooth. Continue this process until all the powdered sugar is added and your cream cheese frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly smooth. If your frosting seems too thick, you can add a tiny splash of milk or cream (about ½ teaspoon at a time) until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a tablespoon or two more powdered sugar.
Assembling and Serving
Step 5: Frost and Chill. Once your pumpkin bars are completely cool and your frosting is ready, it’s time to bring them together! Generously frost the cake mix pumpkin bars with the smooth cream cheese frosting, spreading it evenly across the top using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. For the best texture and to make slicing easier, cover the bars and chill them in the fridge for at least an hour (or longer) until the frosting has firmed up. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for much cleaner cuts.
Once chilled, slice the bars into squares. You can either cut these bars into 12 generous large servings, perfect for a substantial dessert, or into 24 smaller ones, which are ideal for a holiday party, a kids’ school event, or a dessert platter. For a party setting, smaller squares make it easier for guests to sample other treats without feeling overly full. A good tip for clean cuts is to wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between each slice.
These pumpkin dessert bars are incredibly moist, perfectly spiced, and simply melt in your mouth, especially when paired with the rich and tangy cream cheese frosting! It’s truly a match made in heaven for your taste buds. This recipe is just another fantastic demonstration of how we love to use a simple box of cake mix as a clever shortcut to create fun and irresistible treats in a fraction of the time.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Serve them slightly chilled for the best experience, and don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly! Try this recipe for your next fall gathering, and I guarantee you won’t be able to eat just one; these bars are simply that addictive!
Pumpkin Bars FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make these pumpkin bars flawlessly every time:
Absolutely! If you’re truly short on time or prefer a quicker option, feel free to skip the homemade frosting. Simply pick up a can of your favorite cream cheese frosting from the baking aisle. While homemade always offers that special touch, a good quality canned frosting will still taste delicious and get your pumpkin bars on the table faster.
Leftover cake mix pumpkin bars, especially with cream cheese frosting, should always be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for about 4-5 days. The chilling helps keep the frosting firm and preserves the moistness of the bars.
Yes, definitely! While a spice cake mix already contains good flavor, if you want an extra kick of fall spice, you can whisk in an additional 1-2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, or a mix of nutmeg and cloves with the dry cake mix before adding the pumpkin puree. This will intensify the autumnal flavor profile.
You can! For added texture and flavor, consider folding in ½ cup of chocolate chips (white chocolate or semi-sweet work well), chopped pecans, or walnuts into the batter just before spreading it into the pan. This adds a delightful surprise to each bite.
The consistency of your frosting heavily depends on the temperature of your cream cheese and butter, and the exact amount of powdered sugar used. If your frosting is too thin, gradually add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired thickness. If it’s too thick, add a tiny splash (½ teaspoon) of milk or heavy cream until it loosens up. Always make sure your butter and cream cheese are at proper room temperature (softened but not melted) for the best results.
We absolutely adore using cake mix as a clever hack for making incredibly tasty baked goods in a fraction of the time! It simplifies the baking process without sacrificing flavor or quality, making it perfect for busy schedules or spontaneous cravings. If you’re hungry for more delightful and easy recipes, be sure to check out some of our other favorite cake mix creations!
More Delicious Cake Mix Recipes You’ll Love
- Cake Mix Apple Cobbler: A warm and comforting classic, made effortless.
- Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies: Soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced for fall.
- Cake Mix Spice Cookies: A simple twist on a beloved cookie, full of warming flavors.
- Cake Mix Funfetti Cookies: Bright, cheerful, and incredibly easy, perfect for any celebration.
- Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies: Rich, nutty, and irresistibly chewy – a peanut butter lover’s dream.
These perfectly moist cake mix pumpkin bars with rich cream cheese icing are more than just a dessert; they are a true fall delight. They embody the warmth and spice of the season, making every bite a comforting experience. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, bringing a treat to a potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these bars are the ultimate choice. Don’t miss out on making these incredibly easy and delicious treats for pumpkin spice season!
Cake Mix Pumpkin Bars
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Ingredients
- 15 oz canned pumpkin
- 15 oz spice cake mix
For the cream cheese frosting
- 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and spice cake mix until thoroughly combined. The batter will be very thick at first; continue stirring until smooth.
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Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and spread the pumpkin batter evenly into the pan.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Remove from oven and allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. Prepare the cream cheese frosting while the bars are cooling.
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To make the frosting: Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, then gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
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Generously frost the cooled pumpkin bars with the cream cheese frosting.
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Cover the frosted bars and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. Once chilled, slice into squares (12 large or 24 small servings).
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 49g,
Protein: 2g,
Fat: 7g,
Saturated Fat: 2g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g,
Trans Fat: 0.1g,
Cholesterol: 5mg,
Sodium: 235mg,
Potassium: 195mg,
Fiber: 2g,
Sugar: 37g,
Vitamin A: 5574IU,
Vitamin C: 2mg,
Calcium: 43mg,
Iron: 2mg
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