Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for these easy pumpkin desserts?

Yes! Cook and puree fresh pumpkin, then drain it in a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth for at least 1 hour to remove excess moisture. You’ll need about 1¾ cups of well-drained puree to replace one 15 oz can.

How do I know when my pumpkin bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The edges will also start to pull away slightly from the pan.

Can I make these easy pumpkin desserts ahead for a party?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day. Store them in the fridge for 1–2 days before serving.

What can I substitute for cream cheese frosting?

Try a maple glaze, cinnamon buttercream, or simply dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar for a lighter version.

Why did my pumpkin bars crack on top?

Cracks usually happen from overbaking or baking at too high a temperature. Use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy and try reducing bake time by a couple of minutes next time.

Easy Pumpkin Desserts That Everyone Will Love This Fall 2025

Easy Pumpkin Desserts That Everyone Will Love This Fall

Print Recipe

These moist, spiced pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate easy pumpkin dessert for fall. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or cozy family baking sessions!

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 24 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk (if needed)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 15×10 inch pan with parchment and lightly grease.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, beat eggs, pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and stir just until combined.
Pour into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool completely before frosting.
For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix until fluffy, adding milk if needed.
Spread frosting over cooled bars. Chill before slicing for clean cuts.

Notes

Store bars in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted bars and frost when ready to serve. Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 245
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: easy pumpkin desserts, pumpkin bars, fall dessert, pumpkin spice, cream cheese frosting, autumn treats

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/easy-pumpkin-desserts/