Golden Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Bars
These delightful pumpkin cream cheese swirl bars combine rich pumpkin spice flavors with a creamy, tangy swirl. Perfect for fall gatherings and easy to make!
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking pan greased and lined with parchment paper
- 1 Electric Mixer
- 1 Mixing bowls large and medium
Ingredients
Pumpkin Batter
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- In another large bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, to ensure a tender crumb.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the top. Use a knife to gently swirl through the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be sure to check for doneness around the cream cheese portions.
Serving
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack completely before lifting them out. Cut into slices and serve with your favorite fall beverage.
Storage
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If desired, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing. Swirl the cream cheese deeply to create a beautiful pattern. Let the bars cool completely before slicing.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use whole-wheat flour for a healthier option. Substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
How to Serve: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Storage & Freshness: Keep in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness. If freezing, thaw completely before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake the bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use whole-wheat flour for a healthier option. Substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
How to Serve: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Storage & Freshness: Keep in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness. If freezing, thaw completely before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake the bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors.