Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful fall treat, perfect for any occasion. With their moist texture and rich pumpkin flavor, these bars are enhanced by a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these pumpkin bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. Their simple preparation and delicious taste make them an ideal addition to your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 48 bars in one batch, these pumpkin treats are great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting flavor profile that everyone loves.
• Frosting Delight: The homemade cream cheese frosting adds a rich and creamy touch that elevates the bars to another level.
• Seasonal Appeal: These bars capture the essence of fall, making them a seasonal favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will simplify the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together quickly for a smooth batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results in baking.
• Mixing spatula: Helps incorporate ingredients without overmixing, ensuring tender bars.

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 Garnishing

• 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. If you prefer taller bars, use a 10×15 jelly roll pan.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Sift together flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
1. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed.
2. Blend in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into your prepared jelly roll pan.
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars bake, prepare your cream cheese frosting by combining softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl.
1. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract until fully combined.

Now you’re ready to serve! Once cooled, frost your pumpkin bars generously with cream cheese frosting and enjoy this delicious fall treat!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful fall treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a festive gathering or as a cozy dessert at home, these bars can be enjoyed in multiple styles to suit any occasion.

Family Style

• Serve Warm: Enjoy the pumpkin bars warm out of the oven for an extra comforting experience.
• Add Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast to the creamy frosting.

Decorating Options

• Fall Sprinkles: Use fall-colored sprinkles for a festive touch that brings cheer to your dessert table.
• Cinnamon Dusting: Lightly sprinkle cinnamon on top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Special Occasions

• Holiday Gatherings: Perfect for Thanksgiving or Halloween parties, these bars can be cut into shapes using cookie cutters.
• Gift-Worthy Treats: Wrap individual bars in cellophane and gift them to friends and family during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Creating the perfect Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars involves paying attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out exceptional every time.

• Butter Temperature: Ensure butter is softened but not melted. This helps achieve a creamy texture when mixed.
• Egg Quality: Use fresh eggs, as they contribute to the overall rise and moisture of the bars.
• Accurate Measuring: Measure your ingredients accurately, especially flour, as too much can lead to dry bars.
• Sifting Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour and spices to avoid clumps, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
• Testing for Doneness: Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean but not overbake, which can dry out the bars.

Best Side Dishes for Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars enhances the overall dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream complements the richness of pumpkin bars beautifully.
2. Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts adds crunch and flavor contrast, making each bite more interesting.
3. Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider alongside your bars for a classic autumn pairing.
4. Coffee or Tea: A cup of coffee or tea balances sweetness and enhances flavors during afternoon gatherings.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness that contrasts nicely with the dense pumpkin bars.
6. Cheese Plate: A small cheese platter with soft cheeses adds savory elements that pair well with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Measurements: Using the wrong amount of ingredients can lead to bars that are too dry or too moist. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accuracy.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the bars tough. Mix until just combined, ensuring the flour is incorporated but not overworked.

• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your pan can lead to sticking and make it hard to remove the bars. Always line with parchment paper and spray it with cooking spray.

• Not Testing for Doneness: Baking times can vary; always check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your bars are ready!

• Neglecting Frosting Temperature: Using cold cream cheese for frosting can result in lumps. Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened at room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
• Keep frosted and unfrosted bars separate if possible.

Freezing Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar on high for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat, add a bar, and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How long to bake pumpkin bars?

Bake your Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars for 20-25 minutes at 350°F, checking with a toothpick for doneness.

What temp to bake pumpkin bars?

Set your oven to 350°F when baking these delicious pumpkin bars for the perfect texture and flavor.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can substitute fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-cooked and drained of excess moisture for best results.

How do I make pumpkin bars more festive?

Add nuts like walnuts or pecans, sprinkle some chocolate chips into the batter, or top with fall-themed sprinkles before serving!

What is the best way to frost my pumpkin bars?

Use softened cream cheese mixed with butter and vanilla extract. Spread evenly over cooled bars for a smooth finish!

Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are an irresistible fall dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Their soft texture paired with creamy frosting makes them versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or spices according to your taste!