Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful fall treat, perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy afternoons. Made with Libby’s pumpkin puree and topped with creamy frosting, these bars are soft, moist, and bursting with flavor. This recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or just want to indulge in something sweet, these pumpkin bars will be the star of the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this pumpkin bar recipe is perfect for any baker.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and Libby’s pumpkin puree creates a unique taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Serving: These bars make an excellent dessert for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
• Creamy Frosting: The homemade cream cheese frosting adds a rich and creamy layer that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 48 servings, these bars are great for sharing with family, friends, or coworkers.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars successfully, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures your batter is well-mixed for a fluffy texture.
• Sifter: Helps combine dry ingredients evenly, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking; choose based on desired thickness of your 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.

Ingredients:
– 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 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: Mix the Batter

Cream together butter and white sugar in an electric mixer or large mixing bowl. Add eggs and mix well until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder. Slowly add dry ingredients to the mixer while blending. Incorporate the pumpkin puree into the batter until fully mixed.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

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

Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars bake, make the cream cheese frosting to top them once cooled.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Serving Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars is an enjoyable experience, especially during fall gatherings or holiday celebrations. These bars are versatile and can be paired with various toppings and beverages to enhance their flavors.

Classic Pairings

• Whipped Cream – A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the bars perfectly.
• Ice Cream – Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• Cream Cheese Frosting – Drizzle or spread additional cream cheese frosting on top for extra sweetness.

Festive Toppings

• Fall Sprinkles – Add a sprinkle of colorful fall-themed sprinkles for a fun touch that kids will love.
• Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Mini Pumpkin Candies – Decorate each bar with mini pumpkin candies for a festive look that screams autumn.

Beverage Suggestions

• Hot Apple Cider – Pair these pumpkin bars with warm apple cider to enhance the fall flavors.
• Spiced Tea – A cup of spiced tea complements the cinnamon notes in the bars beautifully.

How to Perfect Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

To achieve the best results with your Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars, consider these valuable tips that ensure deliciousness every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always use fresh eggs, butter, and spices for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined to keep the bars tender and avoid toughness.
• Check Doneness Carefully – Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean but not dry.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Allow the bars to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting off.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for optimal 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 delightful spread perfect for any occasion. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Autumn Salad – A mixed greens salad with apples, cranberries, and walnuts provides a refreshing contrast.
2. Cheese Platter – Include varieties like sharp cheddar and creamy brie for guests to nibble alongside dessert.
3. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup enhances the seasonal theme while being comforting and delicious.
4. Candied Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes drizzled with maple syrup complement the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
5. Cinnamon Rolls – Soft cinnamon rolls make for a cozy breakfast option that pairs well with pumpkin treats.
6. Fruit Tart – A light fruit tart brings freshness and balances out the richness of the pumpkin bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars can be a delightful experience, but certain common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your baking pan with parchment paper can cause the bars to stick and break apart. Always line your pan to ensure easy removal.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Blend until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature affects doneness. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

• Not Testing for Doneness: Relying solely on baking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked bars. Use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean when they’re done.

• Poorly Measuring Ingredients: Inaccurate measurements can ruin texture and flavor. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

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 individual servings on high for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars that may help you in your baking journey.

How long to bake pumpkin bars?

Bake the bars at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

How to make pumpkin bars more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Spices like nutmeg or ginger also work well.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree; just ensure it’s well-drained so your batter isn’t too wet.

What temp to bake pumpkin bars?

The ideal temperature is 350°F. This allows even cooking without burning the edges.

Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make an excellent fall treat or holiday dessert, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings like nuts or chocolate chips!