Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars Recipe

Introduction: Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Bars

If you are a fan of pumpkin-flavored desserts, you are in for a treat! These Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are perfect for any fall gathering, offering a moist, flavorful bite that’s topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. This recipe is great for those who love pumpkin pie but want a more convenient and shareable version. Plus, the bars are easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and simple preparation steps. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Overview: Essential Ingredients for Sheet Pan Pumpkin Bars

To make these delicious pumpkin bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pumpkin Bars

• 15-ounce can of Libby’s Pumpkin Puree (or similar brand)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups white sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ teaspoon salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 5 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Topping Ideas

• Sprinkles of cinnamon
• Fall-colored sprinkles
• Mini pumpkin candies

this RECIPE

Equipment Needed: Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make these pumpkin bars, you’ll need the following equipment:

• 12″x17″ half-sheet baking pan or 10″x15″ jelly roll pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooking spray
• Electric mixer or large mixing bowl with hand mixer
• Sifter
• Spatula
• Toothpick

Step-by-Step Preparation

Prepping the Pan and Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Line a 12″x17″ half-sheet baking pan with parchment paper and spray the sides with cooking spray. This size pan will result in bars that are about ¾” thick. Alternatively, you can use a 10″x15″ jelly roll pan for slightly taller bars.

Creaming the Butter and Sugar

3. In an electric mixer or large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combining Dry Ingredients

5. Sift together the flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.

Mixing in the Pumpkin Puree

7. Blend in the pumpkin puree until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Baking the Bars

8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

Blending the Frosting Ingredients

10. While the bars are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a stand mixer or large bowl with a hand mixer, blend together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Achieving the Perfect Frosting Consistency

11. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it is too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Frosting and Serving

Spreading the Frosting

12. Once the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

Creative Topping Ideas

13. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle the frosted bars with cinnamon, fall-colored sprinkles, or mini pumpkin candies.

Storage Tips: How to Store and Freeze Your Pumpkin Bars

• Refrigerator: Store the frosted pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-6 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Tips and Variations

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Pumpkin Substitution: If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can use homemade pumpkin puree or even sweet potato puree.
• Spice Mix: Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice to your liking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid tough bars.
• Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the baking time to prevent overbaking, which can dry out the bars.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Pumpkin Bars

• Beverages: Serve these pumpkin bars with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
• Dessert Spread: Include these bars in a dessert spread with other fall favorites like apple pie and caramel popcorn.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different size pan?
A: Yes, a 10″x15″ jelly roll pan will work for slightly taller bars.

Q: How do I know when the bars are done?
A: The bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Q: Can I freeze the pumpkin bars?
A: Yes, these bars freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion: Share and Subscribe

We hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars as much as we do! They are perfect for fall gatherings and make for an easy and delightful dessert. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes!

Print