Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. With their rich pumpkin flavor and creamy frosting, these bars are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or simply craving something sweet, these pumpkin bars will satisfy your taste buds. The homemade cream cheese frosting adds an irresistible touch, making them stand out from ordinary desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious bars.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 48 bars, they’re ideal for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
• Versatile Topping Options: You can customize the cream cheese frosting with your favorite toppings like sprinkles or mini pumpkin candies.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of Libby’s Pumpkin Puree and spices ensures each bite is bursting with fall flavors.
• Make Ahead Friendly: These pumpkin bars can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient dessert option.

Tools and Preparation

To create Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a fluffy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of ingredients for consistent results every time.
• Sifter: Helps blend dry ingredients evenly, leading to a lighter batter that bakes beautifully.

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 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 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 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 a slightly shorter bar about 3/4 thick after baking. Note: You can also use a 10×15 jelly roll pan for a slightly taller bar.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Sift together all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed.
3. Blend in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

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

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars bake:
1. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Now you have delicious Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars ready to serve! Enjoy this perfect fall dessert with family and friends!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any fall gathering or holiday celebration. They can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the pumpkin bars on a large platter with decorative garnishes like fall leaves or mini pumpkins for a festive look.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

Pairing with Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the bars just before serving for an indulgent touch that enhances their sweetness.

How to Perfect Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Perfecting your Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Make sure your ingredients, especially the baking powder and cream cheese, are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

• Avoid overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars rather than light and fluffy ones.

• Check doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bars are ready. This prevents them from being undercooked or overbaked.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allow the bars to cool fully before adding cream cheese frosting. This ensures the frosting doesn’t melt and slide off.

Best Side Dishes for Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Pairing your pumpkin bars with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Hot Apple Cider
   A warm beverage that adds cozy flavors of autumn, making it a perfect companion for pumpkin treats.

2. Candied Pecans
   These sweet nuts provide a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the pumpkin bars, enhancing their richness.

3. Pumpkin Soup
   A smooth and savory soup that pairs well with sweet desserts, creating a delightful balance on your plate.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar can offer contrasting flavors that enhance the sweetness of the pumpkin bars.

5. Roasted Fall Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal veggies like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts adds depth and complements the flavors of pumpkin.

6. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layered with granola and fruit, this dish provides a refreshing tartness that balances out the sweetness of your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can detract from the perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Incorrect Pan Size: Using the wrong pan size can lead to uneven baking. Always stick to a 12×17 half-sheet pan or a 10×15 jelly roll pan for best results.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Skipping the Sifting Step: Sifting your dry ingredients is essential. It helps to incorporate air, ensuring a lighter and fluffier bar.

• Not Checking Doneness: Relying solely on baking time can be misleading. Always check with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean.

• Forgetting the Frosting: The cream cheese frosting is what makes these bars special! Don’t skip it; it adds rich flavor and creaminess.

• Storing Improperly: Storing bars without sealing them can lead to dryness. Use an airtight container for proper storage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 5-7 days for best freshness.

Freezing Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 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 at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat for 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I bake Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars?

Bake your bars for 20-25 minutes at 350°F. A toothpick should come out clean when they’re done!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned, but ensure it’s well-cooked and mashed smoothly.

What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for later enjoyment.

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

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap out spices according to your preference!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious results.

Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Their creamy frosting and rich pumpkin flavor make them perfect for any occasion—from cozy fall gatherings to festive holiday parties. You can easily customize these bars with nuts or spices based on your taste preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try; you won’t regret it!