Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are the perfect fall treat, bringing warmth and comfort to any gathering. These bars, topped with a melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese frosting, make an excellent dessert for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. With their rich pumpkin flavor and delightful spices, they capture the essence of autumn in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal equipment, these pumpkin bars are quick to make.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm and inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 48 bars, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.
• Versatile Topping Options: Dress up your bars with festive sprinkles or enjoy them plain for a delightful treat.
• Homemade Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and creamy touch that elevates the dessert.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter
• Parchment paper
• 12×17 half-sheet baking pan (or 10×15 jelly roll pan)

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Sifter: Ensures dry ingredients mix evenly, resulting in lighter bars.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

This is Libby’s pumpkin bars recipe with homemade melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese frosting that is a perfect fall treat and holiday dessert.

For the Pumpkin Bars

• 15 ounce Can of Libby’s Pumpkin Puree (or similar brand)
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 ½ cups White Sugar
• 1 cup Butter (softened)
• 4 Large Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 5 cups Confectioners’ Sugar
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup Butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract

For Decoration

• Sprinkles of Cinnamon
• Fall Colored Sprinkles
• Mini Pumpkin Candies

How to Make Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 12×17 half-sheet baking pan with parchment paper. Spray the sides of the pan with cooking spray. This size gives you slightly shorter bars about 3/4 thick after baking. Note: A 10×15 jelly roll pan can also be used for taller bars.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In an electric mixer or large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add this mixture to your wet batter. Mix until just combined. Finally, blend in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While the bars bake, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

These delightful Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy them during fall festivities or as a cozy dessert year-round.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations. There are many ways to enhance their presentation and enjoyment.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a generous layer of homemade cream cheese frosting over the bars for an indulgent touch. The rich, creamy flavor perfectly complements the pumpkin.

Topped with Cinnamon

• Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top of the frosted bars. This adds an aromatic spice that enhances the overall pumpkin flavor.

Served with Whipped Cream

• Offer a dollop of whipped cream on the side for those who love extra creaminess. It pairs beautifully with the moist texture of the bars.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Pair your pumpkin bars with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors.

Garnished with Fall Sprinkles

• Decorate your bars with colorful fall-themed sprinkles. This adds a festive look, making them more appealing for special occasions.

Enjoyed as a Snack

• Cut smaller pieces for an easy snack option during afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after school. They’re perfect for any time of day!

How to Perfect Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

To ensure your Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check that your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal rising and flavor.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let butter and cream cheese sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smoother frosting and batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid dense bars. Overmixing can lead to tougher results.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars towards the end of baking. If it comes out clean, they are ready to cool.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow bars to cool completely before spreading frosting. This prevents melting and keeps your frosting intact.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

When serving Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars, consider these delicious side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with spices that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors.
2. Roasted Pecans: Crunchy and slightly sweet, roasted pecans add a nice texture contrast alongside soft pumpkin bars.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over each bar for an extra touch of sweetness that enhances their taste.
4. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can provide savory balance against the sweetness of the pumpkin bars.
5. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup makes for an excellent starter before indulging in dessert.
6. Salad with Maple Vinaigrette: A fresh salad dressed with maple vinaigrette provides brightness and cuts through richness, making it a refreshing choice.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and contrast to the rich flavors of pumpkin.
8. Chai Latte: The warming spices in chai offer a comforting drink option that complements your dessert beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars is straightforward, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pan can cause the bars to stick. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can alter texture and taste. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precision.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can make the bars dense. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking too long can dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a toothpick.
• Not letting them cool before frosting: Frosting warm bars causes melting. Allow your pumpkin bars to cool completely before applying the cream cheese frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to eat.

Reheating Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gradually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars.

How long do I bake pumpkin bars?

Bake your pumpkin bars at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

What temp to bake pumpkin bars?

The ideal temperature for baking pumpkin bars is 350°F. This allows them to cook evenly without burning.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

How do I customize Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for additional flavor and texture variations.

Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful fall treat that everyone will enjoy. Their soft texture combined with creamy frosting makes them perfect for any gathering or holiday celebration. Experiment with toppings or mix-ins to make them your own!