Fall brings with it a cozy feeling that fills the air with warmth, and nothing embodies that more than the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice. For many, pumpkin desserts are a nostalgic reminder of the season’s delights. Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a way to bring a little autumn magic into your home, these Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are the perfect way to celebrate fall. Made with the classic taste of Libby’s pumpkin puree, these bars are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a seasonal favorite and how you can create this sweet, flavorful treat for your loved ones.
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Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars: Simple & Tasty Fall Delight
As the leaves begin to change and the crisp fall air sets in, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with the warm, comforting taste of pumpkin. For many, pumpkin desserts are a nostalgic reminder of cozy family gatherings, seasonal traditions, and the magic that autumn brings. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious treat that captures the essence of fall, Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are the perfect recipe. With just the right blend of spices and a soft, moist texture, these bars are an easy way to bring a taste of fall into your home.
Made with Libby’s pumpkin puree, a pantry staple known for its rich flavor and perfect consistency, these bars are not only convenient but also a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a holiday party, or just a mid-week treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why Libby’s Pumpkin Bars Are the Ultimate Fall Treat
Pumpkin bars have long been a favorite dessert for fall, and there are plenty of reasons why. Not only do they offer a delicious combination of pumpkin and spices, but they’re also incredibly versatile and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s perfect for any gathering.
Libby’s Pumpkin: A Trusted Brand
Libby’s pumpkin puree has been a go-to ingredient for home bakers for decades, and there’s a reason why. Unlike some other brands, Libby’s uses only 100% pure pumpkin with no added fillers or preservatives. This ensures that your pumpkin bars will have a rich, authentic flavor that’s hard to beat. Using high-quality pumpkin puree makes all the difference when it comes to creating a dessert that truly embodies the essence of fall.
Sheet Pan Simplicity
One of the best parts of making pumpkin bars is the simplicity of the recipe. By using a sheet pan, you can bake a large batch of bars at once, making this dessert perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply want a dessert that’s easy to serve, pumpkin bars baked on a sheet pan are an ideal choice. Plus, sheet pan baking cuts down on cooking time, leaving you more time to enjoy the season with your loved ones.
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars
these pumpkin bars require simple pantry staples that you likely already have on hand. Below is a complete list of ingredients, along with some optional add-ins if you’re looking to get creative with your recipe.
Ingredients Table for Pumpkin Bars
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Libby’s Pumpkin Puree | 1 can (15 oz) |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp |
| Ground ginger | 1 tsp |
| Ground cloves | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ½ cups |
| Brown sugar (packed) | ½ cup |
| Vegetable oil | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a batch of perfectly spiced, moist pumpkin bars that taste like fall in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Pumpkin Bars
Once your ingredients are prepared, it’s time to begin baking.Follow these simple steps to make sure your pumpkin bars come out soft, flavorful, and perfectly spiced.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 13×18-inch sheet pan. Lining the pan with parchment paper can help make removing the bars easier after baking. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt, and whisk until well blended.This step ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving each bite a burst of fall flavor. - Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and the star of the show: Libby’s pumpkin puree. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Take care not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser texture.
- Pour and Bake:
Transfer the batter to the prepared sheet pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Frost (Optional):
Let the bars cool completely before applying any frosting. If you choose to frost them, a simple cream cheese frosting complements the spicy, sweet flavor of the pumpkin bars perfectly.
The Perfect Frosting for Pumpkin Bars
While these pumpkin bars are delicious on their own, adding a creamy frosting takes them to the next level. The tangy sweetness of cream cheese frosting is the perfect contrast to the warm spices in the bars. Below is a quick and easy recipe for classic cream cheese frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 8 oz |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | ½ cup |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. - Add Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until light and fluffy. - Add Vanilla:
- Frost the Bars:
Once the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Slice and serve!
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bars Every Time
Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips that can help you ensure your pumpkin bars come out perfectly every time. Here’s what you need to know:
- Room Temperature Ingredients:
Using room temperature eggs and pumpkin puree allows for smoother mixing and ensures your bars bake evenly. - Don’t Overmix the Batter:
Overmixing can result in dense or tough pumpkin bars. Mix only until the ingredients are combined. - Let the Bars Cool Completely Before Frosting:
If you plan on frosting your pumpkin bars, make sure they’re completely cool. Frosting warm bars will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
Variations on Libby’s Pumpkin Bars
One of the best things about pumpkin bars is how versatile they are. While the classic version is delicious, you can easily switch things up by adding your own twist. Here are a few variations you may want to consider trying:
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bars
If you or someone you’re baking for follows a gluten-free diet, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture and flavor of the bars remain just as delightful.
Vegan Pumpkin Bars
For a vegan alternative, substitute the eggs with flax eggs by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting to keep the recipe plant-based.
Nutty Pumpkin Bars
Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a delightful crunch that enhances the soft, spiced texture of the bars.
Chocolate Pumpkin Bars
For a more indulgent treat, stir in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the frosted bars.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Bars
Pumpkin bars are a versatile dessert that pairs well with a variety of drinks and accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:
- Vanilla Ice Cream:
Serve the bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat. - Hot Beverages:
Pair your pumpkin bars with a hot cup of spiced chai tea, pumpkin-spiced coffee, or hot cocoa for the ultimate fall experience. - Caramel Sauce:
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the bars for an added touch of sweetness.
FAQs
Can I freeze pumpkin bars?
Absolutely! Allow the bars to cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of Libby’s?
Yes, you can, but keep in mind that homemade pumpkin puree may have a different texture and moisture content. Libby’s provides a consistent and reliable outcome, which is why it’s a top choice for bakers.
How do I store leftover pumpkin bars?
Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.If frosted, it’s best to keep them chilled to preserve the frosting’s texture.
How can I make my bars more moist?
Pumpkin puree naturally keeps the bars moist, but you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter for extra moisture.
Conclusion
As the fall season approaches, these Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are the perfect way to indulge in the comforting flavors of autumn. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a party, or just to treat yourself, this easy recipe will bring a little seasonal joy to any occasion.
Made with Libby’s pumpkin puree and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a delicious fall treat that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your pumpkin bar creations with us in the comments below!
