Heavenly Pumpkin Roll Bars Recipe: Fall’s Coziest Sweet Treat

Autumn brings a wave of warmth and comfort with this delightful pumpkin roll bars recipe that promises to melt hearts.

Soft, spiced layers blend perfectly with creamy frosting, creating a dessert that captures the essence of fall.

Bakers seeking a twist on traditional pumpkin rolls will adore this simplified version.

These bars deliver all the rich flavors without the intricate rolling technique.

Each bite carries the sweet nostalgia of seasonal gatherings and cozy moments.

Smooth cream cheese filling nestled between tender pumpkin cake makes this treat irresistible.

You’ll want to savor every delectable square and share the magic of this easy, show-stopping dessert.

FAQs

• What makes the cream cheese filling so smooth?

The key is beating the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg together until completely smooth, ensuring no lumps remain and creating a creamy, silky texture.

• Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute fresh cooked and pureed pumpkin for canned pumpkin, but make sure to drain excess moisture to maintain the right consistency in the batter.

• How do I create the perfect swirl pattern?

Use a knife and gently drag it through the layers of pumpkin and cream cheese batter in a zigzag or figure-eight motion, creating a marbled effect without overmixing.

Pumpkin Roll Bars: The Sweet Appeal

• Skip the traditional roll technique and transform this classic dessert into easy-to-make bars, perfect for bakers who want delicious results without complex steps.
• Blend rich pumpkin spice with creamy cheesecake filling, creating an irresistible dessert that satisfies sweet cravings and impresses guests at gatherings.
• Whip up these bars in minimal time using basic ingredients and straightforward mixing techniques, making it ideal for busy home cooks seeking a delectable treat.
• Enjoy this recipe during fall celebrations or year-round, as the comforting pumpkin and cream cheese flavors work perfectly for potlucks, family dinners, and casual get-togethers.

Pumpkin Roll Bar Ingredient Rundown

• Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender texture in the bars.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the caramelization process.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure of the bars.
• Pumpkin: Brings moisture and signature fall flavor to the dessert.
• Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the bars.
• Water: Helps to adjust the moisture content of the batter.

• Flour: Forms the base structure of the bars.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Provide leavening and help the bars rise.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger: Add warm, traditional pumpkin spice flavors.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, tangy filling that complements the pumpkin batter.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
• Vanilla: Adds depth to the filling's flavor.
• Egg: Helps to set and stabilize the cream cheese mixture.

Tools for Baking Pumpkin Roll Bars

• 13×9-inch baking pan: Essential for creating the perfect bar shape and size.
• Electric mixer: Key for beating butter, sugar, and cream cheese to fluffy, smooth consistency.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for separating dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: Great for combining dry ingredients evenly.
• Knife: Perfect for creating beautiful swirl patterns in the batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Parchment paper or cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal.

Step-by-Step for Pumpkin Roll Bars

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 350F.

Grab your 13×9-inch baking pan and give it a generous spritz of cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Whip Up the Pumpkin Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until they’re light and fluffy.

Toss in the eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and water.

• Flour
• Baking soda
• Cinnamon
• Salt
• Pumpkin pie spice

Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Filling

Grab another bowl and beat the cream cheese until smooth.

• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Egg

Whip until the mixture becomes silky and luxurious.

Step 4: Build the Layers

Pour about two-thirds of the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan.

Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top, then cover with the remaining pumpkin batter.

Take a knife and create beautiful swirls throughout the pan.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes.

The bars are ready when the center springs back with a gentle touch.

Let the bars cool completely before slicing into delectable squares.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Roll Bars

• Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing of bars.
• Use a knife or toothpick to create beautiful, intricate swirl patterns in the cream cheese and pumpkin layers for a stunning visual effect.
• Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
• Refrigerate the bars for 1-2 hours before cutting to achieve crisp, neat edges and prevent crumbling.
• Enhance the pumpkin flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice to the batter for extra warmth and depth.

Pumpkin Bar Styles & Switch-Ups

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Roll Bars: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum for better texture.
• Vegan Pumpkin Bars: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of butter, and swap cream cheese with cashew cream.
• Low-Carb Pumpkin Bars: Use almond flour, replace sugar with erythritol, and incorporate sugar-free cream cheese for a keto-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free Pumpkin Bars: Use dairy-free margarine, replace cream cheese with coconut cream, and choose plant-based milk for a lactose-free option.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Roll Bars

• Festive Holiday Platter: Arrange bars on a rustic wooden board with cinnamon sticks and fresh rosemary sprigs for a cozy autumn presentation.
• Dessert Pairing Magic: Serve alongside warm vanilla bean ice cream or dollop with fresh whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Coffee Corner Delight: Place bars next to a steaming mug of spiced chai latte or pumpkin spice coffee for the ultimate comfort combination.
• Gifting Gourmet: Package individually in clear cellophane bags tied with twine for charming homemade treats perfect for neighbors and friends.

Storing Pumpkin Roll Bars Right

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Cover bars with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
• Reheat single bars for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check temperature to avoid overheating, which can make bars tough or dry.
• Let frozen or refrigerated bars sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften cream cheese filling and restore original texture.

Pumpkin Roll Bars Recipe

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4.9 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Creamy pumpkin roll bars merge classic autumn flavors into an easy-to-serve dessert. Rich cream cheese frosting and warm spices create a delightful treat you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

Spices and Seasonings:

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Filling:

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 13×9-inch baking pan by coating with cooking spray or lining with parchment paper.
2. Create the pumpkin base by whipping butter and sugar until light and airy. Incorporate eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and water into the mixture.
3. In a separate bowl, blend dry ingredients thoroughly, then gently fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
4. Craft the cream cheese filling by whisking cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until silky and uniform in texture.
5. Distribute approximately two-thirds of the pumpkin batter evenly across the prepared pan.
6. Delicately spread the cream cheese mixture over the initial pumpkin layer.
7. Top with remaining pumpkin batter, creating a marbled effect by dragging a knife through the layers in a gentle swirling motion.
8. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, checking for doneness by gently pressing the center – it should spring back when touched.
9. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before slicing into bars for serving.

Notes

• Swap butter for coconut oil to make the recipe dairy-free and add a subtle tropical twist.
• Use gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities while maintaining the bar’s soft texture.
• Create a lower-sugar version by substituting part of the sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a healthier alternative.
• Enhance flavor complexity by adding warm spices like cardamom or nutmeg to complement the existing pumpkin and cream cheese profile.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg