Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With their moist texture and rich pumpkin flavor, these bars are ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family dessert. Topped with homemade cream cheese frosting, they offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will love. Enjoy them at Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or just because you crave something sweet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm and inviting taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 48 bars, there’s plenty to go around for gatherings or potlucks.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bars with sprinkles, nuts, or chocolate chips for added flair.
• Seasonal Favorite: These bars embrace the flavors of fall, making them a seasonal must-have.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and energy when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.

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.

• 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
• 5 cups Confectioners’ Sugar
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup Butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 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 to prevent sticking. This size gives you slightly shorter bars about 3/4 thick after baking. You can also use a 10×15 jelly roll pan for taller bars.

Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Sift together the flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer while blending on low speed.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin Puree

Blend in the Libby’s pumpkin puree into your batter until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Pour your batter into the prepared jelly roll pan:
1. Spread it evenly using a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars bake, prepare your cream cheese frosting:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with softened butter.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar while mixing until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract for flavor.

Once cooled, frost your pumpkin bars generously with this delicious cream cheese frosting! Enjoy!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Serving Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars can elevate your fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. These bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

For a Festive Touch

• With Whipped Cream – Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture.
• Sprinkled with Cinnamon – A light dusting of cinnamon adds warmth and flavor, enhancing the pumpkin spice.
• Garnished with Candies – Place mini pumpkin candies or fall-colored sprinkles on top for a fun and festive look.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mix with Other Desserts – Combine these bars with other seasonal desserts like apple pie or pecan tart to create a delightful dessert platter.
• Serve Warm or Cold – These bars can be enjoyed warm right out of the oven or chilled for a refreshing treat.

Pairing with Beverages

• With Coffee – The rich flavor of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spiced pumpkin bars.
• Hot Apple Cider – Serve alongside hot apple cider for a cozy fall experience.

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 use fresh eggs and quality pumpkin puree to enhance flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined to avoid dense bars. Overmixing can make them tough.
• Check Baking Time Carefully – Start checking for doneness at 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
• Cool Before Frosting – Allow the bars to cool completely before adding cream cheese frosting to prevent it from melting.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options.

1. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp complements the spices in pumpkin bars beautifully.
2. Pecan Pie – The nutty flavor of pecan pie enhances the sweetness of the pumpkin bars.
3. Cinnamon Roll Casserole – This dish adds a comforting, gooey element that matches well with pumpkin flavors.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The savory crunch balances the sweetness of the dessert nicely.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses offers a salty contrast to the sweet bars, creating an enjoyable tasting experience.
6. Caramel Sauce Dip – Serve caramel sauce on the side for those who want an additional sweet touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining the pan can cause the bars to stick. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can create dense bars. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can affect the outcome. Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking too long can dry out the bars. Start checking for doneness at 20 minutes with a toothpick.
• Forgetting to cool before frosting: Applying frosting on hot bars will melt it. Let them cool completely before adding cream cheese frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will last up to 5 days while maintaining freshness.

Freezing Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes for best flavor.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to bake pumpkin bars?

Pumpkin bars should be baked for about 20-25 minutes at 350°F. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

What temperature to bake pumpkin bars?

The ideal temperature for baking Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars is 350°F (175°C). This ensures they cook evenly and remain moist.

How to make pumpkin bars?

To make pumpkin bars, combine wet and dry ingredients as per the recipe instructions, pour into a prepared pan, and bake until set.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can substitute fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it is cooked and pureed properly before using it in your recipe.

Are these pumpkin bars gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed. Adjust baking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations. Their delightful flavor paired with creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and taste!