Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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As autumn rolls around, there’s nothing quite like indulging in the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices. These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just a fall treat; they are the perfect blend of chewy oatmeal, lightly spiced pumpkin, and creamy frosting. Every bite is an explosion of flavor that will leave you eagerly reaching for more. Whether you’re enjoying them as a breakfast option, a midday snack, or a dessert, these bars are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and see why it’s a must-try!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just about great taste; they also boast a plethora of benefits. The combination of old-fashioned oats and pumpkin puree makes for a wholesome treat that provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals while satisfying your sweet tooth. The cream cheese frosting adds a delightful touch of indulgence without overpowering the natural sweetness of the pumpkin and oats. Perfect for gatherings, lunchboxes, or simply enjoying at home, these bars are versatile and loved by all ages. Plus, they are easy to make and require just a handful of ingredients!

Ingredients

To make these fabulous Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2.5 cups old-fashioned oats
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree
• ½ cup milk
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup molasses

For the Best Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How To Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it prepares your oven to bake the bars evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix. The batter will be somewhat thick.

Step 6: Bake the Oatmeal Bars

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the bars are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost the Bars

Once the oatmeal bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Slice into bars and serve.

Expert Tips

• Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy mixing of the frosting.
• Don’t skip the cooling step for the bars; this allows them to set properly before frosting.
• Feel free to add in some nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
• For an even richer flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or cloves into the spice mixture.

Variations and Customizations

• Replace the brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
• For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and replace milk with almond or soy milk.
• Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips for an added burst of flavor.
• Substitute the molasses with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetening option.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftover Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bring them to room temperature before serving.

FAQ

Can I make these pumpkin bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free as well.

What is the best way to serve these bars?

These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars are delightful on their own or served with a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well-cooked, blended, and has a similar consistency to the canned version to keep the bars moist.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

You can reduce the amount of brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet bar. However, reducing it too much may affect the texture, so adjust cautiously.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the epitome of fall flavors. With their comforting oats, spiced pumpkin, and luscious cream cheese frosting, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re baking to celebrate the season or simply craving a delicious sweet treat, this recipe delivers on all fronts. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a heavenly slice of autumn in every bite!