IRRESISTIBLE PUMPKIN BARS WITH CREAM CHEESE FROSTING BY Dr. Cindy Tanzar — A FALL FAVORITE YOU’LL CRAVE

There’s something magical about the fall season—the crisp air, the vibrant leaves, and of course, pumpkin everything! Dr. Cindy Tanzar’s Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate autumn treat. Moist, flavorful, and topped with the creamiest frosting, these bars are perfect for a cozy afternoon, a festive gathering, or simply indulging your pumpkin cravings.

Whether you bake them in a 9×9 pan or double the recipe for a 9×13 crowd-pleaser, these bars are destined to become a fall staple. They’re easy, satisfying, and packed with the warm spices that make pumpkin so irresistible.

⭐ SERVING INFORMATION

Makes: 9 bars (can double for 18 in a 9×13 pan)
Each bar is a rich, satisfying snack or dessert, perfect alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or warm cider.

🥧 WHY YOU’LL LOVE THESE PUMPKIN BARS

• Super moist, tender texture thanks to pumpkin puree and butter
• Cream cheese frosting that’s light, creamy, and slightly tangy
• Naturally sweetened and grain-free for a healthier twist
• Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself (we won’t judge!)

These bars bring fall flavor in every bite, making them an ideal treat for festive gatherings, lunchboxes, or anytime you crave pumpkin spice happiness.

🛒 INGREDIENTS

Pumpkin Bars

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• ¼ cup Kerrygold butter
• 2 oz organic cream cheese, very softened
• 2 large pastured eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup blanched almond flour
• ⅔ cup Swerve granular
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tsp pink Himalayan salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz organic cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup Kerrygold butter, softened
• ⅔ cup Swerve confectioners
• ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
• Organic heavy whipping cream (1–2 Tbsp if needed for creaminess)

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

Pumpkin Bars

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add melted butter, mixing well.
3. Add pumpkin, eggs, and vanilla, beating on medium speed until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together almond flour, Swerve, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix!
6. Pour batter into lined pan and smooth the top. Bake 20–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat butter and cream cheese together until well combined.
2. Gradually add Swerve and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed to incorporate.
3. Beat on high for 2 minutes until fluffy. If needed, add 1–2 Tbsp heavy cream to reach desired creaminess.
4. Spread frosting evenly over cooled pumpkin bars. Slice and enjoy!

🎃 FUN TIPS & TRICKS

Make it Extra Moist

• Use homemade pumpkin puree if you have it—it adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• Don’t overbake; bars continue to set as they cool.

Flavor Boosters

• Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of frosting for extra spice.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts inside the batter for crunch.

Frosting Fun

• For a lighter frosting, whip a little extra heavy cream for fluffiness.
• You can pipe frosting for a festive presentation or simply spread it with a spatula.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee, chai, or warm herbal tea.
• Slice into bite-sized bars for parties or snack boxes.
• Serve alongside fresh berries, sliced apples, or melon for a seasonal touch.

Make-Ahead Magic

• Bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
• Frost the bars just before serving for the freshest texture.
• Double the recipe for a larger batch—perfect for gatherings or gifts.

🥳 WHY THESE PUMPKIN BARS ARE A FALL FAVORITE

Moist, tender, and perfectly spiced, these pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting bring all the cozy flavors of fall in one bite. They’re simple to make, naturally sweetened, and endlessly versatile. Perfect for dessert, snack time, or sharing with friends and family—once you make them, these bars will become a seasonal staple you’ll look forward to year after year.